Which of the following temperatures should a hot water heater be set no higher than to prevent burns?

Setting a hot water heater to a maximum of 120 degrees Fahrenheit is recommended to prevent burns. Water at this temperature reduces the risk of scalding, especially for vulnerable populations such as children or the elderly, whose skin may be more sensitive to high temperatures. At 120 degrees, it typically takes around five minutes to cause a burn, which is considerably safer than higher temperatures.

Temperatures above 140 degrees can cause burns in as little as five seconds, making them potentially dangerous for anyone, particularly those with slower reflexes or diminished sensitivity to heat. This standard reflects guidelines from various health and safety organizations, which emphasize the importance of maintaining a safe temperature in home water heating systems to prevent accidental injuries.