Keep the Water Heater Warm Through the Winter
The end of the year is a busy time with the holidays and the rise of winter. Using the cold weather as a cue, homeowners start looking for the perfect holiday gifts for friends and family members. However, they often forget one of the most important members of their household that always has their back: the water heater. Water heaters are reliable equipment, but the winter can be particularly hard on them. Isn’t it time to do something to reward all that hard work?
If the water heater had a Christmas list, the only items on it year after year would be maintenance and insulation. Water heater insulation is a cheap solution that can be installed by DIYers and professionals alike, and it can help water heaters meet the demands placed on them more reliably. This year, reward the water heater with the thing it wants most. Here are a few reasons why water heater insulation will make a gift that keeps giving all year.
Why is Water Heater Insulation Necessary? 
Water heaters have heavy demands placed on them by families, and in the winter, it only worsens. Cold weather and colder-than-average groundwater mean that water heaters must work harder to overcome environmental factors to keep the family in hot showers and clean laundry. Adding this to standby heat loss from the water heater as it sits idle, it’s easy to see how water heaters may have difficulty keeping up.
Water heater insulation ensures that all the work a water heater does won’t go to waste. By insulating the water heater, homeowners will notice benefits like:
- Cheaper utility bills
- More abundant hot water
- Less standby heat loss
- Improved efficiency
Ways to Tell if a Water Heater Needs Additional Insulation
There are a few easy ways to determine how badly a water heater needs insulation. When it comes to water heater insulation, age and R-value are two important things to consider. If a water heater is over ten years old or has an R-value lower than 24, homeowners should consider purchasing extra insulation for their hot water storage tank. The higher the R-value of the insulation, the better it is at preventing heat loss. Homeowners can find the R-value on the tank or in the user manual.
By insulating a hot water storage tank, homeowners can save on energy costs and keep more hot water in the tank for longer. Homeowners should check with their local plumbing professional before installing any insulation products to ensure they are compatible with their system. Also, be sure to follow all safety precautions when installing insulation around a water heater. These steps can help save energy and money while ensuring that hot water is always available.
Types of Insulation Commonly Used on Water Heaters
There are several methods available for insulating a water heater, including insulation blankets or jackets, installing foam board insulation, or using spray foam. Each of these methods has advantages and disadvantages that should be considered. No matter which way a homeowner chooses for insulating their water heater, it’s important to follow all safety guidelines and take proper precautions. Working with these materials can be dangerous if not handled properly.
Insulation blankets and jackets are the most popular method of insulating a water heater, as they are relatively inexpensive and easy to install. However, they may not provide as much air circulation around the unit as other methods. Foam board insulation is more effective at keeping heat inside the tank, as it is thicker and provides better air circulation. However, it is also more expensive and may be challenging to install.
Spray foam insulation is one of the most effective ways of insulating a water heater. It effectively seals all gaps around the unit, preventing warm air from escaping and cold air from entering. It also helps keep heat inside the tank, ensuring the water is hot when it reaches its destination. However, spray foam insulation can be messy and difficult to work with. Professionals can help homeowners determine the best and safest method for insulating their water heaters and ensure there are no leaks or issues before doing so.
About Sheely Plumbing Inc.
Sheely Plumbing Inc. is a family-owned and operated business serving Alto, MI, and the greater Grand Rapids area for over a decade. They provide flat rate pricing, same or next-day service, and 100% satisfaction guaranteed. Call them today for water heater services in Alto, MI.
