I'm trying to test the temperature of the hot water coming out of my hot water heater but I'm very confused.
Can I use a meat thermometer or what should I be using?
Also, just to make sure my thermometer is accurate, what should a glass of ice water show?
Best Answer
Your best bet would be an IR or instant read thermometer. You should test it from the closest faucet to the hot water tank, and make sure to let it run for several minutes first.
If you do use a leave-in meat thermometer, it might take several minutes to get an accurate reading.
Ice water should be close to 0C/32F (and if you add salt, it would get even colder), which I doubt your meat thermometer can measure.
120F might be considered low, but it is also safer. 140F is a pretty typical setting.