Next you need to choose the appropriate working temperatures to use when soldering different components. (All temps below are based on using lead solder. Lead free and silver based solders need higher temps, another reason I do not like them)
While Lead solders melt around 400*F you will need higher heat to work effectively. I use 650*F for all purpose soldering on wires larger than 18ga, 625* for 22-18ga wires, and I will increase the temp if I find that I have issues with thermal recovery or large components not heating quickly. It should not take longer than 6 seconds to make a connection. If you have problems, increase the temp by 10 or 15*. 600 – 750*F is the usable temp ranges for good soldering. 750* is pushing it, severely, and I would avoid going that high if possible. If your solder tip is turning discolored (a rainbow like dull shine) you are using to much heat.
If you ever have to turn the temp up higher than 700* you need a bigger tip. (I would even say 675* means a larger tip is needed)
If you ever need to do any soldering directly to a circuit board, 600* is where you need to start at, and never go higher than 625* unless absolutely necessary. I mean that... check every other possible reason that can cause issues before turning up higher than 625* when soldering on a board.
