The Dangers of Scalding Water – Be Safe!

Tap water scald injuries are the second most common cause of serious burn injuries in all age groups.  Scalding is a second-degree burn to the skin or flesh caused by moist heat and is a much deeper burn than one from dry heat.  Many of the scalding incidents are a result of household water heaters being set at temperatures above 120 degrees F.   According to the US Department of Energy, a temperature of 120 degrees at the tap is adequate for most household chores with a minimal danger of scalding and maximal energy efficiency.  Most incidents are preventable so keep your families safe with a few helpful tips.

FACTS:

  • More than 35,000 children, most of them 4 or younger, are treated each year in hospital emergency rooms for tap-water scald burns, according to the National Safe Kids Campaign.
  • The National Coalition to Prevent Childhood Injury, a group of 80 civic, health and professional groups based in Washington, DC, says scald burns account for about 100 deaths a year, most of them children under 5, or adults over 65.
  • The Consumer Product Safety Commission says that although most scald burns occur in the kitchen, the most severe scald burns are caused by water flowing into the tub or shower.

Ways to prevent hot water scalding incidents:

  • Reduce water temperature. Children’s skin burns at lower temperatures and more deeply than that of older children and adults.
  • Set your water heater thermostat at 120 degrees Fahrenheit. If you are not comfortable adjusting the water heater thermostat contact your plumber.
  • Test the bathwater with your wrist or elbow before placing your child in it.
  • Consider installing anti-scald devices on water faucets and showerheads that turn off the water if the temperature is too hot.
  • Passive devices, such as thermostatic mixing valves, can also prevent scald injuries from occurring.  Contact your Plumber for more information regarding these devices.

Keep in mind that by lowering the temperature even a little can bring you big savings … from 3% to 5% if you adjust your temperatures from 130 degrees F down to 120 degrees F.  Also if you are going on vacation, turn off the power to your water heater and save even more energy – and money!

Sources:
www.safekids.org
www.cpsc.gov
www.energy.gov

Schedule Service

Sidebar

“The team of R.T., S.M and N.B did an amazing job. They literally worked their butts off, and their attention to detail was truly above the bar. I will...” Jim. F.
“For the very positive, service person (A.G.) was excellent: locating the exact location of the plumbing leak within an upstairs bathroom wall, cutting...” J. M.
“These folks stay true to this day. From being easy work with, their professionalism to the quality of work that is put in. Blind & Sons will remai...” Corey A.
Purchase any high efficiency furnace - Get an A/C for 50% off* 10 Years Parts & Labor
Expires 05/31/2023
50% OFF Electrical Service Call With Repair Also - Free 29 Point Electrical Safety Inspection
Expires 05/31/2023
50% OFF Plumbing Service Call with Repair Also - Free 26 Point Plumbing Inspection
Expires 05/31/2023
HVAC: Free Tune-Up For Any Equipment Over 10 Years Old IAQ: Special $501 Duct Cleaning Price For Less Than 30 Vents (Per System)
Expires 05/31/2023
FREE* Water Testing
Expires 05/31/2023
ONLY $59* Flush & Fill Water Heater
Expires 05/31/2023
Get $2,000 OFF Any Generator!* Special Financing Available.
Expires 05/31/2023
ONLY $29* Replace any Switch or Outlet!
Expires 05/31/2023
ONLY $79** A/C Tune-Up
Expires 05/31/2023
Smart Home Energy Management Offer
Expires 05/31/2023
$100 OFF* Duct Cleaning!
Expires 05/31/2023
Price Match Plus Guarantee
Expires 05/31/2023
Serving Our
Northeast Ohio
Neighbors
We are committed to bringing our
community fast, affordable home
comfort solutions.