What is the maximum temperature that a water temperature limiting device should be adjusted to provide?

The maximum temperature that a water temperature limiting device should be adjusted to provide is 120°F. This setting is primarily for safety reasons, particularly to prevent scalding injuries, especially for vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly. Water at temperatures above 120°F can cause immediate burns, so by setting the device to this limit, it minimizes the risk while still providing water hot enough for household needs such as bathing and dishwashing.

The choice of 120°F is also supported by various plumbing codes and safety guidelines, which recommend this temperature as a balance between comfort and safety. Additionally, many fixtures and processes in residential and commercial environments are designed to operate effectively within this temperature range.

The other temperature options exceed the recommended limits for safe domestic use. For example, while 140°F might be effective for certain sanitization processes in commercial settings, it significantly increases the risk of scalding in residential applications. Therefore, a maximum setting of 120°F ensures compliance with safety standards and protects users from potential harm.