Do you ever think about the insulation that helps keep your hot water hot or cold water cold? Chances are you’re taking it for granted, but there’s a lot more to understand about water heater insulation than you might expect!
Understanding the type of insulation that goes into making a water heater both efficient and safe is imperative for proper maintenance and longevity. This article will explain the different types of insulation used in water heaters, how insulation works to enhance a water heater’s performance, and the steps you can take to maintain your water heater’s insulation. Keep reading to gain a better understanding of the important role insulation plays in your water heater.
Types of Water Heater Insulation
Water heater insulation has been around since the 1940s, and it serves several purposes, including reducing energy loss, protecting the water heater from damage, and lengthening its working life. Insulation also exhibits many different types and measurements of R-factors, which determine its ability to keep heat within the water heater’s tank.Fiberglass
Fiberglass insulation commonly acts as an insulation cover for standard water heaters.This type of insulation comes in fluffy fibers of compressed glass blown into a bat when in use, and it’s then wrapped around the water heater’s exterior walls to keep it from losing cold air and heat at a rapid pace. Typically, fiberglass insulation’s R-values range from
1 to
Foam
Polyurethane foam is one of the most efficient types of insulation and is applied in the form of a spray. This type of insulation comes in liquid form and hardens when it comes into contact with air. Homeowners who want to keep their water heater warm and maintain its tank temperature may want to invest in polyurethane foam insulation.They can expect R-value ratings ranging from 5 to
Mineral Wool
Mineral wool, also known as rock wool, is an insulation option composed of natural minerals and fibers. After the mineral wool fibers are bound together, they are then wrapped around the water heater and can be used to keep temperatures at safe levels.Mineral wool insulation has an R-value rating of 7 to