What is the maximum temperature for residential hot water supply?

The maximum temperature for residential hot water supply is typically set at 130 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature strikes a balance between providing comfortable hot water for household use and minimizing the risks associated with scalding.

At temperatures above 130 degrees, there is a significantly higher risk of burns and injuries, particularly to vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly. Health and safety guidelines often recommend this limit to enhance safety and prevent accidents.

Lower temperatures, like 120 degrees, may not be sufficient for effective sanitization, especially in preventing the growth of bacteria such as Legionella. On the other hand, temperatures of 140 degrees or higher, while effective for sanitation, dramatically increase the risk of burns, which is why they are not recommended for residential settings.

Thus, the selection of 130 degrees represents a widely accepted standard aimed at optimizing safety and health in a residential environment.