Should You Insulate Your Water Heater?

For most homeowners, it is not uncommon to insulate the walls and roofs to keep your home both comfortable and more energy-efficient—however, have you considered insulating your hot water tank?

Although maybe not as well-known as the benefits of insulating other parts of your home, the truth of the matter is that you can save significant energy and money by insulating your hot water tank. This is a simple and inexpensive way to drop your bills every month while improving your home’s energy efficiency.

Most new hot water tanks will already be insulated, but if you have an older hot water heater, it is worth your time to see if the insulation has an R-value of at least 24. Not sure about your water tank’s R-value? All you need to do is touch it. If it feels warm to the touch, it is likely that it could use some additional insulation.

Insulating your hot water unit can help to reduce the standby heat loss as much as 45%! In the end, you can save as much as 9% on your overall water heating costs. In fact, insulating your water tank will pay for itself usually within the year!

Some Tips Before You Get Started

• Check to see if the water heater is leaking. If it is, you likely need a new one.
• Check with your local utility company to see if they offer any rebates or even if they offer any insulating blankets for a low price. There are some companies that will install them for free or for cheap.
• Have an electric water heater? Consider adding insulation underneath it, as well. This can help to prevent heat loss into the floor and may be able to save 4-9% of water heating energy. The best time to add this type of insulation though is when you are installing a new unit.

If you decide that you would like to insulate your hot water yourself, do not forget to turn the breaker off at the electric panel; if you have a gas heater, make sure that the gas valve has been turned to “pilot” position. If you have an electric water heater, make sure it is not set above 130°F or the wiring could overheat.

Talk to an Austin Plumber Today!

Would you like to have a professional come check out your water heater’s energy efficiency? Are you interested in having an expert handle this project for you? Reach out to the team at Excalibur Plumbing today! We have the experience that you need and the skillset that you can trust. Just call us today at 512-259-7222.