Time/Temperature Relationship in Scalds
Temperature
Time To Produce a Serious Burn
120°F
More than 5 minutes
125°F
1
1
/
2
to 2 minutes
130°F
About 30 seconds
135°F
About 10 seconds
140°F
Less than 5 seconds
145°F
Less than 3 seconds
150°F
About 1
1
/
2
seconds
155°F
About 1 second
Table courtesy of Shriners Burn Institute
The chart shown above may be used as a guide
in determining the proper water temperature for your
home.
NOTICE: Households with small children, disabled,
or elderly persons may require a 120°F or lower thermostat
setting to prevent contact with “HOT” water.
The temperature of the water in the heater is
regulated by the adjustable surface mounted
thermostat(s) located behind the jacket access
panel(s). Dual element heaters have two thermostats.
To comply with safety regulations the thermostat(s)
were set at 120°F before the water heater was
shipped from the factory.
The illustration at the left
shows the temperature
adjustment dial used for
setting the water
temperature.
Refer to the Operating
Instructions in this
manual for detailed
instructions in how to
adjust the thermostat(s).
DANGER:
Hotter water increases the potential for
Hot Water SCALDS
.
D A N G E R
!
HOT
Water temperature over 125
°
F can
cause severe burns instantly or
death from scalds.
Children, disabled and elderly are
at highest risk of being scalded.
See instruction manual before
setting temperature at water
heater.
Feel water before bathing or
showering.
Temperature limiting valves are
available, see manual.
BURN
R
E
S
E
T
R
E
S
E
T
TURN OFF
POWER
BEFORE
SERVICING
90
°
F
150
°
F
125
°
F
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION.
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING.
3
Reset button
Thermostat
protective
cover
Thermostat
dial pointer
WARNING!
WATER TEMPERATURE ADJUSTMENT
Safety and energy conservation are factors to be considered when selecting the water
temperature setting of water heater’s thermostat. Water temperatures above 125°F can cause
severe burns or death from scalding. Be sure to read and follow the warnings outlined on the
label pictured below. This label is also located on the water heater near the thermostat access
panel.
NOTICE: Mixing valves are available for reducing point
of use water temperature by mixing hot and cold water in
branch water lines. Contact a licensed plumber or the
local plumbing authority for further information.
