Water Temperature for Dishwasher
In order to activate dishwasher detergents and effectively melt grease from dishes the water temperature should be set at least 140°F for most residential situations.
More Info: Many of today's Energy Star dishwasher models contain a booster heater, which allows you to set your water heater temperature to 120°F.
Handwashing versus Dishwasher
One of the benefits of using a dishwasher is the fact that you can run water hot enough to do a thorough, sterile job, unlike handwashing where you can only run the water to a temperature that is comfortable for the skin.
Energy Star models can save 5,000 gallons of water over handwashing in a single year. Energy Star models use between 3-5 gallons of water per load compared to 10-15 gallons for older models. Given the fact that 80% of the energy expended in a dishwasher is used to heat up the water, the savings can be substantial.
Did you know that you can save an average of 230 hours of personal time by using a dishwasher instead of handwashing? That equates to a ten-day Caribbean cruise!
Benefits of Lowering Water Heater Temperature
According to the US Department of Energy, for each 10°F reduction in water heater temperature, you can save 3-5% in energy costs.
Lowering the water temperature will also help your water heater last longer by slowing the mineral buildup and corrosion in the unit and the pipes.

US Department of EnergyEnergy Savers: Lower Water Heating Temperature for Energy Savingshttp://www.energysavers.gov
California Energy CommissionDishwasherswww.consumerenergycenter.org
ENERGY STARHandwashing vs. Dishwasher http://www.energystar.gov
"Water Temperature for Dishwasher." Sophisticated Edge. N.p., n.d. Web. . <http://www.sophisticatededge.com/water-temperature-for-dishwasher.html>.

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