Adjust Your Water Heater to Save Without Losing Comfort
Domestic hot water is the 2nd largest energy expense item. A simple temperature adjustment can save you tens of euros per year.
Recommended Materials
- Screwdriver
- Kitchen thermometer
Steps to follow
Step 1
The ideal set temperature for a water heater (cumulus) is 55°C. It is the perfect compromise between comfort, savings and hygiene.
Step 2
Why not less? Below 50°C, there is a real risk of legionella development. These dangerous bacteria proliferate in lukewarm water and can cause serious respiratory diseases.
Step 3
Why not more? Above 60°C, limescale forms much faster (accelerated scaling of the resistance), risks of serious burns increase (especially for children), and energy consumption to maintain hot water is unnecessarily high.
Step 4
To adjust the temperature: first cut the power to the water heater at the electrical panel to work safely. Open the plastic protective cover often located below the tank (sometimes requires a screwdriver).
Step 5
Locate the thermostat wheel (often graduated from 1 to 5 or with +/- symbols). Turn the wheel towards minus. If you don't have a precise graduation, proceed by small adjustments.
Step 6
To check the exact temperature, turn the power back on, wait for the next day (night heating cycle) and measure the water temperature at the kitchen tap with a kitchen thermometer. Adjust if necessary.
Step 7
Also think about insulating hot water pipes leaving the tank (lagging) with foam sleeves, especially if they cross a cold room (garage, basement). This avoids losing degrees on the way.
Step 8
Also check the condition of the safety group: turn the drain knob once a month to evacuate limescale deposits and check that it does not stay stuck in open position. It is essential for the longevity of the tank.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I turn off the water heater during holidays ?
For an absence of less than 3-4 days, no, restarting would consume more than maintaining. Beyond that, yes, cut the power supply and close the water inlet of the safety group to save and avoid any water damage.
My water heater drips, is it normal ?
Yes, during heating, water expands and the safety group lets a little water escape (drip) to lower internal pressure. If it flows continuously even when not heating, the group is scaled and must be changed.
Precautions
- Always cut the power before opening the water heater cover.
- Never go below 50°C (health risk).
