What Is The Best Hot Water Tank Temperature Setting in BC?

What is the recommended hot water tank temperature in BC?

In British Columbia, the recommended and legally required storage temperature for a hot water tank is 60°C (140°F). This standard is set by the BC Plumbing Code to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. However, for safety at the tap, it is advised that the water be delivered at a lower temperature, typically around 49°C (120°F), to prevent scalding.

This dual-temperature requirement is a critical safety measure. Storing water at 60°C (140°F) is essential for killing off bacteria like Legionella, which can thrive in warmer, stagnant water and cause Legionnaires’ disease, a severe form of pneumonia. This is particularly important in the mild, wet climate of the Lower Mainland, where indoor plumbing systems can sometimes provide ideal breeding grounds for such pathogens. However, water at this temperature can cause a severe burn in just a few seconds.

To solve this, a device called a thermostatic mixing valve (or tempering valve) is installed. This valve blends hot water from the tank with cold water before it reaches your taps, showerheads, and faucets. This ensures the water in the tank remains hot enough for safety, while the water you use for washing and bathing is at a safe, comfortable temperature. For expert advice on installing or servicing a tempering valve, contact the licensed plumbers at Budget Heating and Plumbing Services.

How do I know what temperature my hot water tank is set to?

To find your hot water tank's temperature setting, you will need to locate the thermostat dial on the unit. For most electric water heaters, there are two thermostats, one for the upper element and one for the lower, hidden behind removable access panels. Gas water heaters typically have a single dial or electronic control on the gas valve near the bottom of the tank.

For gas models, the temperature dial is usually visible on the front of the gas control valve. It might show specific temperatures or have labels like "Hot," "Warm," or letters (A, B, C). For electric models, you will need to turn off the power to the water heater at your home's breaker panel first. Then, use a screwdriver to remove the upper and lower access panels on the side of the tank to reveal the thermostats. Both should be set to the same temperature.

If your dial uses letters instead of numbers, it can be confusing. While it varies by manufacturer, there is a general range for these settings.

Is it cheaper to keep hot water on all the time?

For most modern, well-insulated hot water tanks, it is more energy-efficient and cheaper to keep the water consistently hot rather than turning the system on and off. Your water heater is designed to maintain a set temperature, only using energy to heat the water when the internal thermostat detects a drop. This process is more efficient than using a large amount of energy to reheat a full tank of cold water.

This is due to something called "standby heat loss," which is the heat that escapes the tank even when no hot water is being used. Newer tanks have significantly better insulation, minimizing this loss. If you have an older tank, you might consider adding an insulating blanket to reduce standby loss and save on your energy bills. However, the best long-term solution for energy savings is upgrading to a high-efficiency model.

Homeowners in British Columbia can take advantage of rebates from FortisBC and incentives from the CleanBC program when upgrading to a new, high-efficiency gas water heater or a heat pump water heater. These programs can significantly lower the upfront cost of a new unit, which will lead to even greater savings on your monthly utility bills. The team at Budget Heating and Plumbing Services can help you navigate these rebates.

What are the risks of setting my water heater too low?

The most significant risk of setting your water heater temperature below 60°C (140°F) is the potential for the growth of harmful bacteria, most notably Legionella. This bacterium causes Legionnaires' disease, a serious and potentially fatal type of pneumonia. It thrives in water temperatures between 20°C and 45°C (68°F to 113°F).

Legionella bacteria are naturally present in freshwater environments, but they become a health risk when they multiply in building water systems like hot water tanks. When you shower or use a tap, the bacteria can become aerosolized in water droplets and be inhaled, leading to infection. Symptoms are similar to the flu, including fever, cough, and muscle aches. Vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly, smokers, and those with compromised immune systems, are at a higher risk.

While setting your water heater to a lower temperature might seem like a good way to save a few dollars on your energy bill, the potential health risks are not worth it. The BC Plumbing Code mandates a storage temperature of 60°C (140°F) for this very reason. It is the most effective way to ensure the water in your tank is disinfected and safe for your family.

What are the risks of setting my water heater too high?

Setting your water heater temperature too high poses two main risks: the danger of scalding and increased energy costs and damage to your plumbing system. Water heated above 60°C (140°F) can cause severe third-degree burns in just a matter of seconds, posing a serious threat to everyone in the household, especially young children and the elderly.

Here is how quickly scalding can occur at various temperatures.

Beyond the safety risk, excessively high temperatures accelerate mineral buildup, also known as scale, inside your tank and pipes. While Metro Vancouver is known for having soft water, scale can still form over time, reducing your water heater's efficiency and lifespan. The unit has to work harder to heat the water through the layer of sediment, wasting energy and increasing your FortisBC or BC Hydro bill. This can also lead to premature failure of the heating elements. For professional plumbing services to address scale or other issues, our team is available 24/7.

Typical Hot Water Service Costs in the Lower Mainland

Understanding potential costs can help you budget for necessary maintenance or replacements. While prices vary based on the specific job, complexity, and parts required, here is a general breakdown of what you can expect to pay for common hot water tank services in the Vancouver area.

These costs reflect the expertise of a licensed, insured, and bonded company like Budget Heating and Plumbing Services, ensuring the work is done safely and to BC Building Code standards. Investing in professional service protects your home and gives you peace of mind.

How to Adjust Your Hot Water Tank Temperature Safely

Adjusting your hot water tank temperature is a straightforward process, but it must be done carefully. The basic steps involve turning off the power or gas supply, locating the thermostat, making a small adjustment, and then testing the water temperature at the tap after a few hours. Always make small, incremental changes rather than large ones.

Here is a step-by-step guide for a safe adjustment:

1. Turn Off the Power or Gas: For an electric water heater, go to your breaker panel and switch off the breaker dedicated to the water heater. For a gas water heater, turn the thermostat dial to the "Pilot" or "Off" position. 2. Locate the Thermostat(s): On a gas heater, the dial is on the control valve at the bottom. On an electric heater, you will need a screwdriver to remove the upper and lower metal access panels on the side of the tank. Behind the insulation, you will find the thermostats. 3. Make the Adjustment: Use a flathead screwdriver to adjust the dial on an electric model or simply turn the knob on a gas model. Do not exceed the 60°C (140°F) setting for storage. If you have a tempering valve, this is the correct setting. If you do not, set it to 49°C (120°F) for safety, but be aware of the bacterial growth risk. 4. Restore Power: Replace the access panels and insulation on an electric model, then turn the breaker back on. For a gas model, return the dial to its original "On" position. 5. Wait and Test: It can take 2-3 hours for the water in the tank to fully adjust to the new temperature. After waiting, run a hot water tap for a minute and use a thermometer to test the water temperature. Adjust again in small increments if needed.

FAQ: Hot Water Tank Temperature

What do the A, B, and C settings on a water heater mean?

The letters on a water heater dial are approximate temperature settings that vary by manufacturer. Generally, "A" corresponds to a lower temperature around 49°C (120°F), "B" is a medium setting around 54°C (130°F), and "C" is a hot setting near the recommended 60°C (140°F). Always consult your owner's manual for specifics.

Can I get a FortisBC rebate for a new water heater?

Yes, FortisBC offers substantial rebates to homeowners in British Columbia who upgrade to qualifying high-efficiency natural gas water heaters. These programs are designed to make energy-efficient models more affordable. Budget Heating and Plumbing Services is a FortisBC Trade Ally and can help you choose a qualifying model and process the rebate application.

How does a tempering valve work?

A tempering valve, or mixing valve, is a plumbing safety device that blends the very hot water from your storage tank with cold water before it is delivered to your taps. This allows you to keep your tank at the bacteria-killing temperature of 60°C (140°F) while ensuring the water from your faucets is at a safe, anti-scald temperature like 49°C (120°F).

Is 55 degrees Celsius OK for hot water?

Setting your hot water tank to 55°C (131°F) is a compromise that may not be ideal. While it significantly slows the growth of Legionella bacteria compared to lower temperatures, it does not guarantee complete disinfection like the recommended 60°C (140°F) does. It also still poses a scalding risk, as water at this temperature can cause severe burns in about 30 seconds.

How long does it take for Legionella to grow in a water heater?

Legionella bacteria can multiply to dangerous levels within just a few weeks in a water tank with temperatures in the optimal growth range of 20°C to 45°C (68°F to 113°F). Stagnant water, often found in the "dead legs" of plumbing systems or in tanks that are not used frequently, can accelerate this growth. This is why maintaining a consistent, high storage temperature is so important.

For expert help with your hot water tank or any other plumbing needs in the Lower Mainland or Fraser Valley, trust the experienced professionals at Budget Heating and Plumbing Services. Contact us today at 604-343-1985 for a free estimate or visit our plumbing services page to learn more.