Appliances Renovation

Insulating Water Heaters & Pipes

About 20 percent of the energy used in the home goes to heat water. If your water heater feels warm to the touch, it probably needs to be insulated. Fiberglass blankets for water heaters are available in kits at most hardware and building supply stores, or you can use leftover insulation. Just remember not to cover the top of a gas water heater or you’ll block the air to the flue. Also, be careful not to block the airflow to the gas burner at the bottom of the heater.

Tools & Materials

• Gloves
• Goggles
• Dust mask
• Utility knife
• Fiberglass insulation (kit or blanket)
• Molded pipe insulation
• Duct tape

Step 1. Installing the insulation.

Cut the fiberglass blanket to fit around the tank and fasten the joint with duct tape. If the blanket has paper or foil backing, place the backing facing out.

Step 2. Insulating electric water heaters.

If the water heater is electric, fit the insulation down to the floor and cover the top of the heater. Make sure to seal the top and the sides with tape. Cut out access openings for the upper and lower heating elements and thermostat. Be sure to leave the pressure relief valve and pipe exposed, and don’t obstruct the discharge pipe or the drain valve.

Step 3. Insulating gas water heaters.

If the heater is gas, do not cover the top of the heater and do not put any insulation near the burner. All flammable material should be kept well clear of the flue pipe. Otherwise, you’ll create a fire hazard; you also could void your homeowner’s insurance.

Step 4. Insulating hot-water pipes.

Install presplit foam sleeves over the pipes and give the sleeves a twist to hold them in place. You also can use foam tape with an adhesive backing. Simply peel off the protective strip and wrap the tape around the pipe.

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