Gas Water Heater Temperature Adjustment

Ground-water temperatures in the Sacramento, California region in the summer months average around 70º and in the winter months an average of 40º; we recommend the following settings to compensate for the groundwater fluctuation. Not all temperature reading are the same at the gas water heater control valves as shown, we recommend using a temperature gauge and marker to mark your exact settings on the gas thermostat control valve, you do not need to turn off the gas to make these temperature changes.

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• Consult your water heater owner's manual for instructions on how to operate the thermostat.

• You can find a thermostat dial for a gas storage water heater near the bottom of the tank.

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Step By Step Instructions

1) Find the current temperature.

Measure the beginning temperature of your hot water using a thermometer at the tap farthest from the water heater. Thermostat dials are often inaccurate.

 

2) Mark the setting, then turn down the thermostat.

Mark the beginning temperature on your water heater thermostat with a marker, and then turn the thermostat down.

 

3) Measure and adjust.

Wait a couple of hours, then measure the water temperature again at the farthest tap from the water heater. Several adjustments may be necessary before you achieve the desired temperature.

 

4) Mark the new temperature.

If you are satisfied with the temperature, mark the new temperature on the water heater thermostat with a marker so that you can make adjustments in the future if necessary.

 

5) Turn down or off when away.

If you plan to be away from home for at least three days, turn the thermostat down to the lowest setting or completely turn off the water heater. To turn off an electric water heater, switch off the circuit breaker. For a gas water heater, ensure you can safely relight the pilot light before turning it off.