Water Temperature Setting; Adjustment - Rheem GE Series Use And Care Manual

DANGER: There is a hot
water scald potential
if the thermostat is set
too high. Households with
small children, disabled, or
elderly persons may
require a 120°F or lower
thermostat setting to
prevent contact with
HOT water.
Reset button
Thermostat
dial pointer
150°F 90°F
(32°C)
(66°C)
125°F (52°C)
TURN OFF
POWER
BEFORE
SERVICING
Thermostat
protective
cover
Type 59T thermostat and
protective cover.

Water Temperature Setting

The temperature of the water in the
water heater can be regulated by setting
the temperature dial of the adjustable
surface mounted thermostat(s) located
behind the jacket access panel(s).
Dual element heaters have two
thermostats.
Safety and energy conservation are
factors to be considered when selecting
the water temperature setting of the
water heater' s thermostat(s). The lower
the temperature setting, the greater the
savings in energy and operating costs.
To comply with safety regulations the
thermostat(s) are factory set at 120°F
or less where local codes require. This is
the recommended starting point.
Time/Temperature Relationship in Scalds
Temperature
120°F
125°F
130°F
135°F
140°F
145°F
150°F
155°F
Table courtesy of Shriners Burn Institute
If adjustment is necessary...
Turn off the power to the water
heater.
Remove the jacket access panel(s)
and insulation exposing the
thermostat(s).
The thermostat protective cover(s)
should not be removed.
Water temperatures above 125°F
can cause severe burns or death from
scalding. Be sure to read and follow the
warnings outlined in this manual and on
the label on the water heater. This label
is located on the water heater near the
thermostat access panel.
Mixing valves for reducing point of use
water temperature by mixing hot and
cold water in branch water lines are
available. Contact a licensed plumber or
the local plumbing authority for further
information.
The chart below may be used as a guide
in determining the proper water
temperature for your home.
Time To Produce a Serious Burn
More than 5 minutes
1 1 / to 2 minutes
2
About 30 seconds
About 10 seconds
Less than 5 seconds
Less than 3 seconds
About 1 / seconds
1
2
About 1 second
Using a small screwdriver, set the
thermostat(s) dial pointer(s) to
the desired temperature.
Replace the insulation and jacket
access panel(s). Turn on the power
to the water heater.
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