SAFETY & ENERGY

Water Heater Blankets Help You Save

By John Krigger

Water heaters use a lot of energy even when you're not using hot water. This stand-by loss happens when heat travels through your water heater's walls, and can account for a substantial portion of your water heating costs.

Most older water heaters have only an inch of fiberglass tank insulation, and most newer ones have just an inch of foam insulation. You can reduce your energy consumption by installing an additional blanket of fiberglass insulation. This is one of the most common and effective energy-conservation measures available.

Water-heater blankets come in kits that contain a blanket, straps and tape. The straps hold the insulation to the water heater, and the tape seals the seams in the insulation.

Turn the water heater off before installing the blanket. Read all the instructions that come with the blanket.
Identify the areas where the blanket will be taped to the water heater. Wash these well so the tape will stick.
Cut the blanket to size with scissors or a sharp knife. Leave some extra until you know for sure how much you'll need.
Identify the pressure relief valve on either the top or side. Don't cover this important safety device.
For electric water heaters, you can insulate the top of the tank as well as the sides. Note where two rectangular covers provide access to the thermostats and elements. Cut small flaps in the insulation to provide access to these panels.
For gas water heaters, don't insulate the top. Note the gas valve and burner access door near the bottom of the tank. Cut the blanket so it is at least two inches away from these.
Install the blanket so it is snug, and fasten it well so it will stay in place.

This long-lasting conservation measure will save energy day and night for the life of your water heater.

Source: Saturn Resource Management

John Krigger is a nationally recognized author of numerous energy efficiency books, including Your Home Cooling Guide; EnergyWise Guide to Home Energy Conservation and Residential Energy; and Cost Savings and Comfort for Existing Buildings. For more info on his publications, please visit his website www.residential-energy.com.