Certified Facility Manager (CFM) Practice Exam

Guest-use water temperatures should be set no higher than what temperature at the source?

1. 100 degrees F

2. 120 degrees F

3. 140 degrees F

4. 160 degrees F

The correct answer is: 120 degrees F

Setting guest-use water temperatures at no higher than 120 degrees Fahrenheit is essential for several important reasons. At this temperature, the water is warm enough to provide comfort for bathing and handwashing while ensuring safety. Temperatures above 120 degrees can pose a significant risk of scalding, especially for children and the elderly, who may have thinner skin and less sensitivity to heat. Most health and safety standards recommend this maximum temperature to strike a balance between user comfort and the prevention of burns. Additionally, water temperatures are carefully regulated in facilities to minimize liability and health hazards, as well as to comply with safety codes that govern the operation of public facilities. Setting the temperature too high can also lead to increased energy consumption and costs, which can affect the overall operational efficiency of the facility. Therefore, keeping the water temperature at or below 120 degrees Fahrenheit is a best practice in facility management.