We want hot water around; just keep the temperature down

January 28, 2021

Everyone knows we can’t live without water. And having hot water for a variety of uses, including hand washing (especially these days), dish washing, laundry, relaxing showers or baths is very important to our day-to-day lives. But here’s the thing … while having hot water is a great benefit, it can also be a safety hazard if not treated carefully and with respect. You or a loved one could be seriously scalded if the proper precautions are not taken. Small children and babies are especially susceptible. Here are a few tips to help ensure you enjoy the positives of hot water while avoiding a painful negative. 

  • Always turn cold water on before hot water and turn hot water off before cold water. 
  • Set your water heater at 120 degrees Fahrenheit or below. Scalding can occur at a temperature of 125 degrees. 
  • Install anti-scald devices on showerheads and faucets. 
  • Make sure your COLD and HOT faucet handles are labeled correctly – this one may seem obvious, but you’d be surprised how often labels are wrong. 

Not only will these tips make your home safer, but you’ll save energy and possibly reduce your monthly bill.