Water Heater Repair

Summary

Find the control knob to set the temperature of a water heater

Step 1: Turn off the power source

Step 2: Unscrew the cover to access the control knob

Step 3: Adjust the water heater temperature using the control knob

Step 4: Turn the water heater back on

If the water coming out of your faucets makes a lot of steam, if you have a burning sensation reasonably quickly, it may be time to adjust the temperature of your tankless water heater. Having the right temperature for domestic hot water means having a good safety/comfort/energy efficiency ratio, so it may be useful to review the set temperature of your appliance.

The set temperature is the one indicated on your thermostat; it indicates to what degree the domestic hot water should be coming out of your tank. The ideal temperature is 50°C. Below this temperature, there is a bacterial risk, above 60°C, you risk severe burns, and scale formation is faster.

Your water heater can, therefore, be adjusted between 55°C and 60°C for safe operation while avoiding unnecessary energy expenditure.

Note: Do not hesitate to check the temperature of your water with a kitchen thermometer or a temperature sensor before adjusting the temperature of the water heater.

– Find the control knob to adjust the temperature of a water heater.

On an electric water heater, the control knob for setting the temperature is usually located under a cover at the bottom of the unit.

The control knob or adjusting screw can be graduated in degrees or with a position indicator such as “economy” and/or “+” and “-“.

– Do not hesitate to look at the technical data sheet of your appliance to find the control knob and its operating mode, but whatever the device, the temperature setting is almost always the same.

Equipment needed to adjust the temperature of a water heater:

– Phillips screwdriver: Starting at $3

– Thick protective gloves: $10 approx.

– Thermometer: $10 approx.

1. Switch off the power source

– Before working on your electric water heater, you must cut off its power supply, and there are several solutions:

  • Turn off the power at the main circuit breaker.

  • Remove the fuse corresponding to the power supply of your electric water heater.

Caution: to work safely, your hands must be dry. Also, keep children and pets away from the work area.

2. Unscrew the cover to access the control knob

– Use a screwdriver to remove the screws holding the cover in place. There may be only one screw.

– Carefully set the screws aside, so they do not get lost.

– If there is insulation under the cover, wear a pair of gloves to remove it.

3. Adjust the temperature of the water heater using the control knob on the control panel

If you have an adjustment wheel/screw with only “+” or “-“, turn the knob or use a screwdriver to adjust it to the “-“. You will have to wait a few days and take the temperature at the outlet of the faucet.

If you have an adjustment screw graduated in degrees, level 1 to 5 or with indications: with the screwdriver, turn it either to the economy mode or 55 °C or lower it by one level.

4. Switch on the water heater again

– Reposition the insulation if there was one.

– Reassemble the housing with its screw(s).

– Replace the fuse for the water heater or press the “on” button on the main breaker.

Tip: It is a good idea to check the temperature at the faucet outlet after a few days using a temperature sensor or thermometer.

That’s it. You are now done with adjusting the temperature of your water heater. If you need further help, call a professional in Oakville, and remember to share your comments in the section below.

How to Adjust the Temperature of a Tankless Water Heater

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