You do not need to turn off the gas while adjusting the water temperature.
Avoid raising the temperature above 120 °F (49 °C) to prevent serious burns. [5] X Expert Source Dave JonesMaster Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup Expert Interview. 29 March 2021.
Never adjust the electric water heater without turning off the circuit breakers. To prevent electrocution, contact an electrician if you’re not sure how to turn off the breakers.
Most panels do not need a screwdriver to be opened. Your hands should be enough.
Store the insulation somewhere safe—it will need to go back in the water heater to keep the thermostat temperature accurate.
The thermostat should show temperatures from about 90 °F (32 °C) to 150 °F (66 °C), though 120 °F (49 °C) is the recommended maximum. [9] X Expert Source Dave JonesMaster Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup Expert Interview. 29 March 2021. Even if there are 2 panels, there should only be 1 thermostat. The number of panels more has to do with the water heater’s design, as both panels should open up to the same thermostat.
120 °F (49 °C): 5+ minutes 125–130 °F (52–54 °C): 60-120 seconds 130–140 °F (54–60 °C): 5-30 seconds 140–150 °F (60–66 °C): 1-5 seconds 150–160 °F (66–71 °C): 1-1 1/2 seconds 160 °F (71 °C) or above: Immediately
