Frequently I see people advise others to turn the thermostat on their water heater down to save money. This is terrible advice, as anything less than 140*F is unsafe because it allows Legionella bacteria to grow. If Legionella is aerosolized by your shower head and breathed in it can infect the lungs and lead to death. The possibility of contracting legionnaires disease while trying to save $2.50 a month on your power bill is not worth it.
If you really want to save money safely install a shower shut-off valve on your shower head they only cost $10 on amazon, this way you can take navy showers, and lower your water temperature while in the shower itself by using more cold water.
Some resources below:
http://www.cashacme.com/resources/hot-water-safety/
A water temperature of 120°F does not kill the Legionella bacteria; a hot water temperature of 140°F is required at which Legionellae dies in 32 minutes. Hence it is recommended that the water heater be set at a safe hot water temperature of 140°F.
http://www.legionellaprevention.org/water-management-plans.html
hot water heater outlet temperature at or above 60°C (140°F)
August 26, 2018 at 11:21AM
