Are water heater blankets worth it?
Water heater blankets, or insulation blankets, are exactly what you might expect: a sort of warm and cozy blanket that protects your water heater and keeps it from losing heat. Not only does it save you money, but it also helps the water heater to keep your hot water at a constant temperature.
Do water heater blankets really work?
Water heater blankets work because more and more homeowners are opting to get one, and this means it is a product that fulfills its purpose and even exceeds the market’s expectations. Its many benefits outnumber the few shortcomings of installing one. Should I wrap my water heater with insulation blankets?
What is the best hot water heater blanket?
- Smart jacket water heater blanket
- Frost King
- US Energy Products
- Thermwell
Are water heater blankets a good idea?
Not only do these blankets save energy and money, but they also keep the water at a consistently hot temperature. Investing in a water heater blanket is a good idea for homes with heating units 10 to 12 years old. After 12 years, however, it is recommended to replace the unit with a newer model.
Do hot water heaters need a blanket?
The US Department of Energy recommends installing an insulation blanket if the insulation value of your water heater is less than R-24, but they also say that if you don't know the R-Value, touch the outside of your water heater. If it's hot, you should insulate it.
Are water heater blankets a fire hazard?
Different water heater blanket materials have varying degrees of fire resistance to combat that risk. While the most common designation is Class 1/Class A, it's helpful to know which types are the most fire-resistant. Fiberglass and foil-type insulation are nonflammable.
What is the best material for insulating a hot water tank?
neoprene foamWhen it comes to electric water heaters, polythene or neoprene foam are the most suitable materials for insulation of the piping.
Should I insulate my hot water tank?
Insulating your hot water cylinder is one of the easiest ways to save energy and, therefore, money. If you already have a jacket fitted around your tank, check the thickness. It should be at least 80mm thick; if it isn't, consider buying a new one.
Do heated blankets catch on fire?
New electric blankets are a minimal safety risk, but old, damaged, or improperly used electric blankets can pose a risk for fire or burns.
Do water tank covers work?
Yes! Water heater blankets really work! They're essentially an add-on feature that can be applied to any tank-style water heater to improve its energy efficiency. They're also very easy to install.
What is the most effective thermal insulator?
aerogelThe best insulator in the world right now is most probably aerogel, with silica aerogels having thermal conductivities of less than 0.03 W/m*K in atmosphere. of aerogel preventing ice from melting on a hot plate at 80 degrees Celsius! Aerogel has its amazing properties because it's mostly made out of air.
How do you insulate a 2500 gallon water heater?
0:352:12How to Insulate water tanks - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipStaple the insulation to the timber use thermal foil tape to seal all overlaps. And jointsMoreStaple the insulation to the timber use thermal foil tape to seal all overlaps. And joints alternatively build a simple timber blocks. Around the tank then staple the insulation.
How many heated blankets catch fire?
Experts estimate that an average of 5,000 house fires are caused by electric blankets every year. These fires typically occur due to any one of the following reasons: Manufacturing mistakes; i.e., improperly installed wiring, faulty control unit.
Are thermal blankets fire resistant?
Thermal Blanket – Product Overview The high temperature silicone rubber provides a flexible coating resistant to molten splash, welding spatter, direct flame, high heat, and wear.
Are heating mats a fire hazard?
According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), heating pads and electric blankets are responsible for causing approximately 500 fires each year.
Will a wet blanket protect from fire?
MYTH: You should wet woollen blankets to wrap around yourself as protection when sheltering from a fire. FACT: Use a dry blanket to help protect yourself from radiant heat when sheltering from a fire.
What is a Water Heater Blanket?
Very simply, as the name implies, it is an insulated blanket to cover your water heater. Often times this product is also referred to as a water heater cover, wrap, or jacket. It’s the same principal as to why we insulate walls, floors, ceilings, doors, and around windows in our homes.
How to tell if water heater needs blanket?
The best way to tell if your water heater would benefit from a hot water heater blanket, is to touch your tank. If the tank is warm to the touch, it could definitely benefit from more insulation. The warmth that you feel is an indication that heat is escaping.
Why insulate walls and floors?
In terms of a water heater, the idea is to keep heat in so the water heater doesn’t have to work so hard to keep water inside the tank warm.
How much does a water heater cover save?
It’s estimated that with the typical tank, a cover can save you up to 17% on your energy bills. As most covers are around $30, that can be ...
What is the R value of a water heater?
It is recommended that a water heater wrap offer an R-value of 10 or higher. R-value is a common industry term referring to the thermal resistance — or the insulation effectiveness — of the wrap. The material used as well as its thickness and density all contribute to determining the R-value. Most blankets are made of fiberglass with a vinyl ...
What is a blanket made of?
Most blankets are made of fiberglass with a vinyl or reflective aluminum barrier. Although, if you’re looking for a slightly more green product, you can find wraps with recycled denim insulation.
How much does a tank cover save?
It’s estimated that with the typical tank, a cover can save you up to 17% on your energy bills. As most covers are around $30, that can be a worthwhile investment.
How much does an insulated blanket cost?
It may not seem like much but considering that the cost of the blanket is anywhere from about $20.00 to $35.00 - it's a savings that could easily add up in time.
How Do You Install A Water Heater Blanket?
Look for a water heater wrap that comes in a kit. This will come with instructions to help you through the process.
What Kind Of Water Heater Wrap To Buy?
If you do decide that you want to purchase and use a water heater insulation blanket then the next step is to decide what kind to get.
Why do you need an insulated wrap on a water heater?
If you have an older water heater, an insulated wrap may be useful to keep it from working so hard which in the end may extend it's lifespan and help to reduce the amount of electricity or gas the water heater is using to keep the water inside of it hot.
Why do you need a water heater cover?
Some people call them water heater covers or wraps, but whatever you call them, the purpose is to keep the water heater tank warmer so that it doesn't have to work so hard to keep the water inside the tank hot.
Do you cover the thermostat on a gas water heater?
If you have an electric or gas water heater - make sure not to cover the thermostat or the heating element control. Also - do not cover the drain valve, pressure reliev valve or the overflow drain tube. Additionally for a gas water heater - you want to make sure not to cover the flue, the air flow to the gas burner or the draft diverter.
Do newer water heaters need padding?
But newer water heaters are fairly well insulated and they wouldn't need the extra padding.
What do Water Heater Blankets Cost?
Water heater insulation blankets will cost you between $30 and $60. The price can be higher or lower, depending on where you’re located and the time of year that you’re shopping for one.
Should You Wrap Your Hot Water Pipes?
Yes, you should wrap hot water pipes. Once the hot water leaves the tank, it travels through cool pipes which instantly start to lower the water temperature.
Can You Use Two Water Heater Blankets?
You could potentially use two water heater blankets at the same time, provided you don’t cover the controller, anode rod, pressure release valve, or the top of the tank in error.
Do Modern Hot Water Tanks Need Insulation?
Hot water heaters less than 10 years old usually don’t require a heater blanket. If the water heater is in a cold mechanical (furnace) room, then insulating would benefit it.
Do Water Heater Insulation Blankets Work?
Yes, water heater insulation blankets work. Using a heater blanket that fits the size of your tank is important to maximize the benefits.
Do water heaters need insulation?
Water heaters manufactured within the last decade or so have more insulation than older models, so the shell will not feel noticeably warmer than its surroundings. They don’ t need additional insulation. In fact, manufacturers nowadays discourage adding insulation and most state that it will void their warranty if you do.
Can you tell if your water heater is old enough?
This also means that you will not get any early warning signs of impending tank failure either. Another consideration is that, if your water heater is old enough to get an energy-savings boost from an insulation wrap, then it is also at or near the end of its lifespan.
What to Look for When Buying Water Heater Blankets
Buying an insulation blanket for water heater systems is not different from choosing a jacket for cold weather use. People will want to retain as much heat as possible. To do that, they must consider a few things before buying thermal insulation for their water heaters.
Should Water Heater Be Wrapped
The decision to insulate hot water tank depends on a few factors, including water heater age, temperature gradient, and water heater location.
What Size Water Heater Blanket Do I Need
Manufacturers of water heater insulating blankets size their products according to existing tank standard sizes. For example, one can pick a 40-gallon water heater shroud for a 30-gallon to a 40-gallon water heater.
How to Install a Water Heater Blanket
Installing a water heater blanket cannot be more straightforward than wrapping the material around the tank and securing the edges with water heater blanket tape. Here are the steps.
Can You Put a Blanket on a Gas Hot Water Heater
Yes, one can wrap a gas water heater with an insulating material. However, homeowners must observe caution when installing the gas water heater blanket. It is essential not to cover the burner assembly and smother the flame. It would also be best not to cover the water heater’s top section to promote more efficient exhaust egress.
Conclusion
The best water heater blanket empowers families to save up to 16% on their water heating bills, minimizing standby heat loss from their water heaters. The best products have a high R-value, excellent insulation materials, are thick, versatile, and fire-resistant.
Is it safe to use a water heater blanket?
Water heater blankets are safe to use and can help save on energy costs.
Do new water heaters need a blanket?
While you may find a few water heater blankets still on the market, most newer models don’t require them. That’s because water heaters have evolved, with thicker insulation and other advances that make them more energy efficient.
What is the material for insulating a hot water tank?
The most common material for insulating a hot water tank is fiberglass.
Should I wrap my water heater with insulation?
You may want to wrap your water heater with insulation in some cases, such as if your heater is located in an unheated space.
Are water heater blankets required in California?
County, or state law in California that requires you to insulate your water heater, but many experts recommend doing so.
How do I cover my hot water heater?
You can purchase a hot water heater cover at your local home improvement store, or you can make your own cover.
Is it worth wrapping water heater?
It will cut down on your monthly bills. Water heater blankets vary in price, but most cost less than $30. … Therefore, this is a potential back up plan. If you outlive your warranty, you may still be able to save on your energy bill by insulating your hot water heating unit.
What is a hot water heater blanket?
Hot Water Heater Blanket. A hot water heater blanket is just what the name suggests. It is a blanket that wraps around your water heater and prevents heat loss. Your heater can also maintain consistent temperature with the help of an insulation blanket. These are made of various materials: fiberglass, foil, or denim.
Why do you need an insulated blanket?
But if it is located in the attic or the garage, an insulated blanket will help retain heat and avoid energy wastage. You must also take into consideration the climate of the area that you reside in. If you live in a hot region, the temperature difference between the heater temperature and that indoors will not be very high.
What to do if your heater is too old?
If your heater is too old and not heating well, it would be better to replace the heater instead of covering it with an insulation blanket. If your heater is located inside the house and in the rooms, your home heating is keeping it warm enough and you do not need any extra insulation.
What does R value mean in blankets?
The blankets differ based on their material and R value, that measures thermal resistance. If the R value is high, you will get more insulation. Which blanket you choose will depend on the performance of your heater and its location.
Do you need a warranty on a water heater?
Make sure the warranty does not become invalid if you put a blanket on your heater.
Do you need a hot water heater in winter?
You need hot water often in winters and if your heater is old or installed in a place where there is high heat loss, you will be losing a lot of energy. In these types of cases, some people press the button for hot water heater blankets; also known as insulation blankets. These will help insulate your water heater but before you think ...
What is an Insulation Blanket?
It’s a blanket that wraps around your hot water heater to keep it from losing heat. It also helps your hot water heater to maintain a consistent temperature.
What affects the R value of a blanket?
The materials of the blanket affect the R-value, and so do the density and thickness. For a hot water heater in a room such as the garage or outdoor closet—a place that typically isn’t climate controlled—choose a blanket with a higher R-value.
Can you put insulation over 130 degrees?
Additionally, the Department of Energy warns not to set the temperature of any hot water heaters with insulation blankets over 130 degrees fahrenheit because you can overheat the blanket—which can potentially overheat the wiring. This is, of course, important for safety, but because you’re lowering the temperature of your hot water heater, ...
Do water heater blankets help?
Hot water heater blankets also prevent hot water heater from losing heat to a cold room or outdoor closet. My grandfather, who was always very strict that we keep the doors closed during winter so as not to “heat the entire block,” would be very happy to hear that.
Do you need insulation blankets for hot water heaters in Phoenix?
But if you live in Phoenix, AZ and keep your hot water heater in your garage, it’s not as important to use an insulation blanket because the temperature difference isn’t as extreme. Before moving forward, make sure to check the warranty on your hot water heater to see if insulating it will void the warranty. If you are in need of ...
Can you wrap a hot water heater in insulation?
If you live in Minneapolis, MN and your hot water heater is in an unfinished basement or garage, then wrapping your hot water heater in an insulation blanket will save you money.
Is it worth replacing a hot water heater?
Depending on the age of your hot water heater, it may be worth it to replace your hot water heater instead of just insulating it. Most HVAC professionals recommend hot water heater blankets for older models of hot water heater, but installing a new hot water heater may be more cost- and energy-efficient in the long run.
