Water Heaters - 130 degree water is the maximum

Even with the thermostat set to "very hot" the max water temp I can get is 130 degrees. I have flushed the tank and both heating elements appear to be working. Could the problem be the thermostats? Should I replace the lower or the upper? Got any ideas? Thanks.

The hot water temperature should not normally be higher than 120 degrees. This is hot enough for all household tasks except automatic dishwashing. Most newer dishwashers have built-in preheaters to bring the water temperature up to the required level, usually about 140 degrees.

Also, you are measuring at a tap somewhere, I presume? You will have some loss of heat through the piping system, your actual tank temp may be higher.

This may be the max you can get out of your unit.

Maybe a Pro will weigh in.

A much debated topic. Some states actually regulate the setting of water heater temperature. The argument is that if the temp is set too low it will encourage growth of nasties in the piping system. If the heat is too high young children could be seriously scalded.

From everything I can gather a temp of 120* - 130* is typical. If 130* isn't hot enough you must have a seriously thick skin. :)

The hot water temperature should not normally be higher than 120 degrees. .


120 is too low. legionaires. There are some states which now require, or are considering, that for new water heater, they must be set at 140º MINIMUM, then of course for safety a tempering valve is required at the outlet.