What is the recommended temperature for the home’s water heater to prevent scalding?

The recommended temperature for a home's water heater to prevent scalding is 120 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is considered optimal because it balances the risk of scalding with the need to provide hot water for household needs. At 120 degrees, the risk of burns from hot water is significantly reduced, particularly for children and the elderly, who are more susceptible to scalding.

Water at 140 degrees Fahrenheit can cause serious burns in a matter of seconds, while water at 130 degrees can still lead to injuries, especially if someone comes into contact with it for an extended period. Lowering the water heater temperature to 120 degrees not only enhances safety but can also improve energy efficiency, as it reduces the energy needed to heat water and minimizes heat loss from storage.

Setting the temperature higher than this can compromise safety without providing a significant benefit in day-to-day use. Therefore, maintaining the water heater at 120 degrees Fahrenheit is a widely accepted safety measure recommended by health organizations and building codes.