Low Temp Mixing Valve?

[DbltheBbls]

New member here and I have a question I hope someone can help me with.

We have a 5/1 wash and our water heater per manufacturer is supposed to be set at 140 degrees. We're running it at 110 degrees but am told the condinsation this will cause will cause damage to the burners over time. So it was suggested that we install a Low temp mixing valve at a considerable expense.

Question....

Should we be running at 140? Seems way too hot.
Will the condensation created at the lower temp cause this damage to the burners? If so, how long will it last and what is the expense to replace the burners?

Thanks

 

[soapy]

I run my water heaters at 140 and use a mixing valve to change the temp down to 120. I just replaced the 1 inch valve and the cost was $110. The cost is really not that much for the vavle and it extends the amount of hot water you have availible on busy days.

 

[MEP001]

[QUOTEDbltheBbls]We have a 5/1 wash and our water heater per manufacturer is supposed to be set at 140 degrees. We're running it at 110 degrees but am told the condinsation this will cause will cause damage to the burners over time. So it was suggested that we install a Low temp mixing valve at a considerable expense.[/QUOTE]
Do you have condensation at that temperature? Normally they'll have that if they're fired up cold, but not once the water gets over 100 degrees.

I've seen tempering valves that only cost about $300 that you just plumb inline and tee in cold water, then you can set it at 140 and temper it down to whatever you need.

 

[PaulLovesJamie]

Yes, install a mixing valve. Your heater will last longer and run more efficiently to boot.
"considerable expense"??? Should not be that expensive. a hundred or two for the part.

 

[mjwalsh]

Something to consider: I know of at least one high efficiency condensing boiler that is supposed to run more efficient at lower temperatures iwth no damage to its components. Regular boilers or a hot water heater could have an issue of thermal shock. Every manufacturer should make it clear what temperatures work the best for their specific units.

 

[DbltheBbls]

Thanks for the info. We had a plumming co. give us an estimate and it was in the $1300 range. I know how to sweat copper pipe so it sounds as if it can be a DIY job at considerable savings.