How to Insulate Water Heater Pipes
Insulating water heater pipes reduces temperature loss by 2 to 4 degrees Fahrenheit to plumbing fixtures throughout the house, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. This allows for a lower water temperature setting on the water heater and reduces time waiting for hot water at the faucet. Insulating water heater pipes reduces environmental impact as well as delivering financial savings over time. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends insulating at least the first 3 feet of hot and cold water pipes. Alliant Energy recommends insulating all exposed water heater pipes. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Foam insulation tubes or fiberglass wrap
- Acrylic tape
- Heavy-duty scissors
Instructions
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Position foam pipe insulation or fiberglass wrap beside the water heater pipes. Use a permanent marker to mark the insulation where it aligns with a bend in the pipe or at the point where the pipe enters the wall or ceiling.
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Cut the foam pipe insulation or fiberglass wrap with heavy-duty scissors at the mark made with the permanent marker.
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Position the slit in foam pipe insulation over the pipe and press the insulation onto the pipe. If using fiberglass wrap, start from the end closest the water heater, wrap the fiberglass around the pipe and secure with bands or plastic zip-ties.
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4
Center acrylic tape over the slit for foam insulation tubes or the edge of fiberglass wrap and apply a continuous piece of tape along the length of the seam.
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Tips & Warnings
Insulate the hot water tank for increased energy savings.
On gas water heaters, keep water heater pipe insulation at least 6 inches from the flue. Make sure insulation does not cover vents or access panels.
References
- Photo Credit scissors image by Christopher Dodge from Fotolia.com
