Rheem Tankless water heaters are popular for homes because they are more energy-efficient than traditional tank water heaters. However, choosing the right temperature setting for your Rheem tankless water heater is important to ensure safety and optimal performance.
This blog post will discuss the recommended temperature setting for a Rheem tankless water heater, how to adjust the temperature setting, and the risks and consequences of setting the temperature too high or too low.
Recommended Temperature Setting For Rheem Tankless Water Heater
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recommends setting your water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. It is the safest temperature to prevent scalding and burns. At 120 degrees Fahrenheit, water takes about five seconds to cause a second-degree burn. At 140 degrees Fahrenheit, water can cause a second-degree burn in just one second. If you increase the temperature above 120 degrees Fahrenheit, you are increasing the risk of scalding and burns. You are also reducing hot water availability and increasing your energy costs.
How To Increase Temperature on a Rheem Tankless Water Heater?
If you want to raise the temperature on your Rheem tankless water heater, you can follow these general instructions. Note that the specific steps may vary by model. For more advanced issues, you may also need to know how to reset your Rheem water heater.
- Dial the temperature control up to 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Hold the up arrow button until 140 degrees Fahrenheit appears on the display.
- While holding the up arrow button, press the down arrow button. It will lock in the higher temperature limit.
Note: Not all Rheem models support settings above 120°F without installer or advanced configuration access. Refer to your owner’s manual if these steps do not work.
How to Decrease Temperature on a Rheem Tankless Water Heater
To decrease the temperature on your Rheem tankless water heater, follow these instructions:
- Dial the temperature control down to 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Hold the down arrow button until 120 degrees Fahrenheit appears on the display.
- Press the up arrow button.
If your model includes child-lock or safety override features, make sure those are not activated before adjusting the settings.
Tips for Choosing the Right Temperature Setting
When choosing the right temperature setting for your Rheem tankless water heater, consider the When choosing the right temperature setting for your Rheem tankless water heater, consider the following factors:
- Household demographics: If young children or elderly adults live in the home, keeping the temperature at 120°F or lower reduces the risk of accidental burns.
- Daily habits: Frequent long showers or high hot water usage may justify a slightly higher temperature.
- Local climate: In colder regions, raising the setting may help maintain adequate water temperature at faucets.
- Appliance compatibility: Some dishwashers and washing machines require hotter water, but many have internal heaters.
If you have young children or elderly adults, keeping the temperature low is especially important to reduce the risk of scalding.
If unsure, start at 120°F and adjust only if necessary.
Risks of Incorrect Temperature Settings
Temperatures above 120°F pose several risks:
- Increased likelihood of scalding injuries
- Higher energy bills
- Shortened appliance lifespan due to mineral buildup or overheating
On the other hand, temperatures below 120°F may encourage bacterial growth (e.g., Legionella) in the plumbing system. Always aim for a temperature that balances safety with hygiene and efficiency.
Conclusion
The safest and most efficient temperature setting for a Rheem tankless water heater is 120 degrees Fahrenheit. However, depending on your needs, you may need to adjust the temperature setting. For example, if you have a large household or live in a cold climate, you may need to raise the temperature to ensure enough hot water. If you have young children or elderly adults, keeping the temperature setting low is essential to reduce the risk of scalding. You should also install thermostatically controlled shower valves, which will help to prevent accidental burns. If you need help determining what temperature setting is right for you, consult your manufacturer’s instructions or contact a qualified plumber.
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