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How to Insulate Water Pipes

By Scott Rodgers

Republish: EasyPublish™
Published: 17Feb2009
Word count: 542
Viewed: 284 time(s)

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As the world moves deeper into recession, people are looking for ways to cut their everyday living expenses. One of the major expenses in every household is that of energy consumption. With all the appliances and gadgets men have made, we tend to use, misuse and waste a good deal of energy. One easy way to save energy and to cut some of your bills is by keeping water hot inside the pipes for longer durations in winter. Insulating water pipes is the easiest way to achieve this cut in energy.

First of all, measure the dimensions of the water pipes you want to insulate. You should note the measurements somewhere so that you won't forget them, especially the outer diameter associated with each pipe. Make sure that there are no leakages in the pipes. If you find any leakage point, get that fixed before continuing with the insulation.

Once you have checked all pipes and taken measurements, you need to decide which type of insulation you should use. Whichever insulation you choose, make sure to cover maximum area so that least amount of heat would escape. The most common material used in this regard is pre-formed molded insulation foam. Because of being common, you can easily get it for most sizes and lengths, and separate small pieces are available for spigots. To get the best installation, make sure the inner diameter of the foam is almost the same or slightly greater than the outer diameter of the water pipes. This would make a close fit and cold air won't get trapped in between the pipe and the insulation.

Once you have acquired the needed materials, take a mild cleanser and clean the pipes of any dirt. Also make sure there isn't any oil or other dampness on the outer surface as this hinders with the installment of insulation material. After the pipes become dry, wrap the foam around it carefully without leaving any part of the pipe uncovered. Also, when you are joining two molded foams at bends, it's a good practice to cut the foam at 45 degree angles, so that they would cover up the whole bend without leaving any space naked. Once you have successfully put it on the pipes, wrap some acrylic tape around it to ensure greater efficiency. You can also use duct tape but some expert plumbers give preference to acrylic tapes. You can also use a wire or clamp rather than tape.

If you are living in a place where pipe freezing occurs frequently, it's highly recommended to insulate you water pipes even if you have to hire a plumber for this. That's because water expands when it freezes, and this can cause even durable pipes to break. Pipes most vulnerable to breakage are those situated outside the house like the swimming pool line. In winter season, it may be a good idea to drain the water out of these lines and then shut the valve to stop more water flowing inside. Just in case you come across a frozen pipe, never use a blowtorch or anything else that has a naked flame. The best thing would be to call a licensed plumber to be on the safe side.

Scott Rodgers is a master plumber who has recently begun writing articles for both a plumbing and non-plumbing audience. To view more of plumbing articles, visit http://eLocalPlumbers.com

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