How to Keep Water Based Heaters Warm

Water based heaters that are old and not very energy efficient can waste a lot of gas and electricity trying to keep the water in the tank hot. One way for you to keep your water based heater warm is to install an insulation blanket around the water tank. A water heater blanket provides insulation that will retain heat and help to keep the water in the tank hotter longer.

Things You'll Need

• Water heater blanket
• Tape measure
• Insulation tape
• Utility knife
• Felt tip marker

Send to Phone

Brought to you by

Send to Phone

Please enter your 10 digit phone number only.

Send

A link to this article has been sent to the phone number provided.

Close

Reply HELP for help, STOP to end. Message and data rates may apply.

Instructions

1. Turn off the gas supply or electrical power to the water based heater. Turn the valve for the gas counterclockwise to shut off the gas supply or turn off the circuit at the circuit box.

2. Place the water heater blanket on the floor and open it up. Make sure you have enough area on the floor to work.

3. Measure the height of the water heater tank with a tape measure.

4. Transfer the measurements to the water heater blanket and cut it to the proper height with the utility knife.

5. Wrap the blanket around the water heater tank. You may need a second person to make sure the blanket is placed around the water based heater correctly.

6. Temporarily secure the water heater blanket using the insulation tape.

7. On the blanket, mark the location of the water heater controls with a felt tip marker. This will include the control panels for an electric heater, or various valves and burner for a heater that uses gas.

8. Remove the blanket from the water based heater, set it on the floor and cut out the marks you made with the felt tip marker.

9. Set the water heater blanket back in place over the water heater tank so the areas you cut out in the previous step line up correctly.

10. Secure the water heater blanket permanently to the tank using the insulation tape.

11. Turn the gas or electric power back on to complete the project.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not cover the drain at the bottom of the water heater or vent at the top of the unit if the heater uses gas.

References

• Installing a Water Heater Blanket
• Energy Savers: Insulate Your Water Heater Tank for Energy Savings