HOT PIPES!

February's Task: Insulate your hot water pipes

Most water pipes in homes are uninsulated, which results in lost heat and causes the water heater to work harder, thereby increasing energy costs. If you have pipes which are warm to the touch, which “sweat,” or go through unheated areas, the fix is simple and very inexpensive.
- From http://eartheasy.com/live_cheapheat.htm

How to insulate water pipes
(From http://eartheasy.com/live_cheapheat.htm):

• There are various materials for insulating pipes, but the easiest to use is pre-slit foam pipe insulation. It is available at most hardware stores and usually comes in 3’ lengths. Look for the size that fits the diameter of your pipes, and choose the one with the highest R-value.

• Simply snap the insulation over the pipe and run a strip of duct tape over the seam where pieces butt together. Join the split so it is facing downward on horizontal runs, and tape the long seam as well. Cut short lengths of the foam insulation with a razor knife. For corners, cut the insulation at 45 degree angles and wrap with duct tape.

• Do not wrap too tightly as it will lose some of its insulation value. Any part of the insulation that is outside should be painted.

• While you’re at it, insulate the cold water pipes too – this will help keep them from freezing in unheated areas or during cold weather if you’re away from home. (In areas of sustained freezing temperatures, the pipes will ultimately freeze; the insulation will only slow the process. The only way to prevent freezing is to drain the water or add heat (i.e. heat tape).

For more information on insulating water pipes, see these sites:

• a short video demonstrating application of different kinds of insulation

• a site featuring links to other helpful water-saving information