National Home Inspector Practice Exam

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To prevent scalding injuries, what temperature should heating elements be set to?

100°F
110°F
120°F
130°F

The correct answer is: 120°F

Setting the temperature of heating elements to 120°F is advised to prevent scalding injuries while still providing adequate hot water for most household needs. At this temperature, water is hot enough for effective use in washing and bathing, yet it reduces the risk of scalding, especially for vulnerable individuals such as children and the elderly. Water temperatures above 120°F can pose a significant risk of scalding, particularly in young children who may come into contact with hot water unexpectedly. Studies show that water at 130°F can cause burns to sensitive skin in just 30 seconds, while 120°F takes about 10 minutes to cause a similar injury, making the latter a safer choice. Warming water to temperatures lower than 120°F can also lead to an increase in bacterial growth, particularly Legionella, which thrives in warmer water conditions. Therefore, setting heating elements at 120°F balances safety and hygiene effectively.