Insulating Water Pipes and Heaters

easyHome Repair1-2 hours7 steps

Safety Warnings

Do not set thermostats above 130ºF on electric water heaters with insulating jackets to prevent wiring from overheating.
Ensure electricity is turned off when working near electrical panels or wiring.

Measuring tape — Standard

Scissors or Utility knife — Standard

Marker — Permanent

Insulating blanket/jacket — R-value of at least 24(1)

Adhesive tape — Heavy-duty(1 roll)

Assess the need for insulation by touching the tank; if it is warm to the touch, it requires insulating.

Tip: Insulation can reduce standby heat losses by 25%–45%.

Measure the height of the water heater and cut the insulating blanket to fit the dimensions of the tank.

Wrap the blanket around the water heater and use tape to temporarily hold it in place.

Tip: Position the blanket so ends do not overlap over side access panels.

Use a marker to identify the locations of the controls, pressure relief valve, and the discharge pipe.

Carefully cut out the marked areas for the controls and pressure relief valve to ensure they remain accessible.

Align the cut-out areas with the hardware and tape the insulating blanket permanently into place.

Restore power to the water heater and verify the thermostat setting.

Tip: Confirm the thermostat is not set above 130ºF for electric models.

Insulating an older electric water heater is an inexpensive way to improve energy efficiency and reduce monthly costs.
Pre-cut jackets or blankets are available and typically cost around $20.

Synthesized from 11 verified sources:

Energy Saver (energy.gov)View →

USDA Farmers' Bulletin (Gutenberg)View →

Energy Saver (energy.gov)View →

Gutenberg: Electrical GuideView →

Energy Saver (energy.gov)View →

Gutenberg: Practical Hints to BuildersView →

Energy Saver (energy.gov)View →

Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)View →

Gutenberg: Dwelling ConstructionView →