What temperature is ideal for hot water in warewashing?

The ideal temperature for hot water in warewashing is at least 120°F. This temperature is crucial because it effectively helps to dissolve fats and oils, and it is hot enough to kill many types of harmful bacteria and pathogens that could be present on dishes, silverware, and kitchen equipment.

Using water that is too cool, such as at 100°F, may not provide the necessary sanitization needed for properly cleaning and disinfecting items. In fact, many health and safety guidelines emphasize the importance of maintaining water at a higher temperature to achieve both effective cleaning and sanitization, making 120°F the optimal choice.