The majority of households in the UK rely on water tanks for central heating and hot water. However, not many people are aware of how a hot water tank works or how to spot potential problems until the damage is done. We will explain key points to be aware of for anyone who owns a hot water tank or is thinking about getting one. A hot water tank, also known as a hot water cylinder, is heated by a boiler or immersion Hot water is then stored in the hot water tank for when it’s needed. Cold water storage tanks may be needed for central heating and hot water. Hot water is stored in the hot water tank ready for use. There are two types of tanks, Vented & Unvented. A “vented” hot water tank is heated by a coil
of pipe inside which is connected to the boiler. There may be an immersion heater which sits in the side of the tank which is fed by a cold water storage tank (usually in the loft or airing cupboard). An “unvented” hot water tank is also heated by a coil of pipe inside which is connected to the boiler, again there may be an immersion heater which sits in the side of the tank. The water in the tank is fed directly from the cold water mains. It doesn’t require a cold water storage tank. In both cases, the water in the tank is heated by the hot water traveling from the boiler. It is pumped through a copper coil inside the water tank, this coil heats the water inside the tank which is then used at the taps/showers etc. A hot water tank temperature in the UK should be between 60°C to 65°C. If the temperature is below 50°C, there’s an increased
risk of growing bacteria such as Legionella that causes Legionnaires disease. This happens when your water has been stagnant in the water tank for a while. If the temperature is above 65°C, then the water will be too hot to use and it increases the risk of serious burns. Keeping the temperature at a safe level, 60°C to 65°C, makes the water hot enough to use and hot enough to kill unwanted bacteria. To be on the safe side, hot water tanks are now required by law to be fitted with a
thermostat to allow the temperature of the water in the tank to be set. Some hot water temperature sensors will allow you to keep track of the water tank temperature on your phone. The average household’s water tank usage is 14% to 18% of its energy consumption. Making them possibly a high-cost item. This is why it’s great to seek alternative methods to save energy while using the hot water tank.
The good news is that modern water tanks are 100% energy efficient because they recycle the energy used from heating the water. This gives them the reputation of being great at retaining a set temperature. Gas boilers are 80% to 90% energy efficient and tend to reduce over time. Gas boilers lose their heat through the vent system or roof. Another way to save on energy is by setting the best temperature on the thermostat. This maintains the tank's temperature efficiently. It could also help you save on energy costs, for example storing at 60°C rather than 65°C. However, always beware of Legionella risk if the thermostat is set below 50°C. Previous Post
Next Post Your water heater accounts for about 18 percent of your home’s energy bill. If
your water heater is set too high, you will be paying the price in your energy bill each month. On the flip side, if your water heater is set too low your water may not get hot enough (short showers), or worse, be at risk of growing bacteria. Don’t set your water heater to anything below 120 degrees, as diseases can develop in the stagnant water inside the water heater, particularly Legionella, which is quite dangerous. So, what is the best temperature range for your water heater? The EPA
recommends 120 degrees because it’s hot enough to keep diseases at bay, it’s not hot enough to cause scalding, it will supply enough hot water for most small families and is relatively energy-efficient. However, the best setting for you could vary based on a few factors. These factors are not affected by the kind of plumbing you have (PEX, PVC or copper), how the water is heated (gas or electric) or even if you a tankless hot water
heater.
What's Your Current Temperature Setting?You can find your current temperature setting by looking at the dial on the water heater (if equipped) or taking a temperature reading from the faucet. Turn on the hot water tap and allow it to run for a few minutes before taking the temperature. Solutions to Common Hot Water Tank ProblemsIf you’re worried about pathogens in your hot water, and are worried about scalding water, consider a hot water tank booster. This keeps your water at 140 degrees in the tank but mixes it with cold water to lower the temp to 120 degrees before it reaches the tap. If you live in a large home where it takes a long time for hot water to reach the tap, a hot water circulating system can solve this. This system slowly circulates hot water in the pipes to prevent it from cooling down before it reaches the tap. Professional Plumbing ServicesPerhaps your hot water isn’t hot enough no matter what setting your water heater is on. If you need help adjusting your water heater or troubleshooting any problems, call your local Mr. Rooter Plumbing at (855) 982-2028, or request an estimate online. Your water heater isn't the only thing that needs to be "just right." Find the perfect air temperature with help from Aire Serv, a Neighbourly company. Previous Post Next Post
Request Job Estimate To request a service call, please fill out the form below and we will contact you as soon as possible Services performed by independently owned and operated franchises. Time limit for claims applies. Full details here. What is the best temperature for domestic hot water?A domestic hot water cylinder thermostat should be set at 60-65ºC. This is high enough to kill off harmful bacteria such as Legionella. If you set the thermostat much higher than this the water that comes out of the taps will be too hot and there'll be a risk of scalding.
Is 130 degrees too hot for water heater?Professionals recommend keeping your water heater set at a temperature between 130 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Any higher, or lower, could actually be dangerous for you and your family. While turning the temperature up higher can result in burns, turning it lower than the recommended setting can also be dangerous.
What is the best setting for hot water heater?We recommend setting the temperature anywhere within 120 to 140°F. However, you can set your water heater temperature between 130 to 140°F, especially for large water heaters used in hospitals and industrial settings. If you have children at home, set it to 120°F as this is safe to the majority of the population.
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