At what temperature should hot water be stored in a water heater to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria?

For hot water storage in a water heater, a temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit is optimal for preventing the growth of harmful bacteria, such as Legionella. Bacteria thrive in temperatures below 140 degrees, and while 120 degrees can reduce the risks of scalding, it may not be sufficient to eliminate bacterial growth effectively.

At 140 degrees Fahrenheit, not only is the environment hostile to pathogens, but it also strikes a balance between safety and efficiency; this temperature helps reduce energy consumption while ensuring that water remains hot enough to avoid bacterial proliferation. Higher temperatures, like 160 degrees, can be effective but may pose a greater risk of burns, especially for vulnerable populations.

Hence, 140 degrees Fahrenheit is widely recommended by plumbing codes and health regulations for hot water storage, making it the correct choice in this context.