Why Do Homes Have to Insulate Their Water Pipes?
Wrapping foam insulation, electric heat tape or even layers of newspaper around your water pipes make your home more energy-efficient and can save you time and money. Does this Spark an idea?
-
Reduce Your Energy Bill
-
As water travels through pipes from the hot water heater to your faucet, the water begins to cool as heat is lost to the pipes and surrounding air. Insulated pipes lose less heat, keeping the water temperature two to four degrees higher than it would be in uninsulated pipes. Consequently, with insulated pipes, you can actually set the temperature on your water heater lower.
Save Time and Money
-
With insulated hot water pipes, you don't have to wait as long for hot water when you turn on the tap. Getting hot water faster means you waste less water.
-
What to Insulate
-
You should insulate all hot water pipes that you can access and that are not already encased in wall insulation. Insulating the pipes within 3 feet of the water heater provide the most benefit; however, if you have a gas water heater, keep the insulation at least 6 inches from the flue.
Insulate Cold Water Inlet Pipes
-
Insulating the cold water pipes that bring water into your water heater can also reduce your energy bills. Insulating these pipes for at least 3 feet keeps the water entering the hot water heater warmer, which means it takes less energy to heat this water.
Keep Pipes from Freezing
-
Insulating pipes can keep them from freezing in cold weather. Pipes that are especially vulnerable to freezing include those outdoors, in outside walls and in unheated attics, garages and crawl spaces.
-
References
- Photo Credit plumbing image by Inger Anne Hulbækdal from Fotolia.com
