Pipe insulation: An easy energy saver

Use scrap pieces of foam pipe insulation to fill in the gaps. Straight pieces can work in areas that are curvy but do not create right angles.  A little bit of electrical tape can work to secure them if necessary; however be sure you don't wrap it too tight or the insulation will not be as effective.  Pictured here: hot water pipes coming from the hot water heater, now covered with pipe insulation prior to having the adhesive tape cover removed.Continue to follow the pipes you want to insulate, making sure to remove the adhesive tape covering after you're finished measuring.  It's helpful but not crucial to have two people - one to install and measure and the other to prepare and organize the foam pipe insulation.After you've measured and cut the straight pieces of pipe insulation, you can place them on the pipes and remove the plastic covering from the adhesive to ensure they stay put.View the list »
Place T's and L's on pipes and then measure and cut straight sections to fit in between. You can use a utility knife to carefully cut through the foam. Tip: As you open your packages of foam insulation, slide your finger though the premade slit to ensure that it's open from one end to the other.

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Spring is right around the corner and warmer weather is chasing the winter blues away. Now is a great time to clean, reorganize and assess your home for efficiency. A quick and easy way to save energy in your home, requiring minimal effort and tools is to install pipe insulation. The cost for this project is minimal, the materials are readily available and the process is very straightforward.

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What does pipe insulation do?
Reduce energy loss due to heat escaping from hot water pipes.
Decrease sweating on cold water pipes in warm weather which prevents mold growth.
Prevent pipes in areas which are not insulated from freezing.

Here is a step-by-step guide to installing foam pipe insulation. I was provided the materials by Frost King, but was under no obligation to post a review. I was impressed with the ease of installation and the quality of the product. It's easy to find and inexpensive - and depending on the amount of pipe you want to cover, this project can be complete in as little as an hour or two.

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  • Place T's and L's on pipes and then measure and cut straight sections to fit in between. You can use a utility knife to carefully cut through the foam. Tip: As you open your packages of foam insulation, slide your finger though the premade slit to ensure that it's open from one end to the other.
  • After you've measured and cut the straight pieces of pipe insulation, you can place them on the pipes and remove the plastic covering from the adhesive to ensure they stay put.
  • Continue to follow the pipes you want to insulate, making sure to remove the adhesive tape covering after you're finished measuring.  It's helpful but not crucial to have two people - one to install and measure and the other to prepare and organize the foam pipe insulation.
  • Use scrap pieces of foam pipe insulation to fill in the gaps. Straight pieces can work in areas that are curvy but do not create right angles.  A little bit of electrical tape can work to secure them if necessary; however be sure you don't wrap it too tight or the insulation will not be as effective.  Pictured here: hot water pipes coming from the hot water heater, now covered with pipe insulation prior to having the adhesive tape cover removed.
  • Continue to cover the pipes until you have covered all that are exposed.  As previously mentioned, electrical tape can be used to secure the foam insulation around the bends but be sure not to wrap it too tight.
  • Take a step back and inspect your work. Be sure that you've covered all exposed pipe with foam pipe insulation and make note of other sizes needed if necessary.
  • Be sure to check from other angles to see that the entire pipe is covered on all sides. You don't want heat from hot water to escape, defeating the purpose of the installation.
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, Philadelphia Green Living Examiner

Christina Eckhart lives in a chemical-free home with her pets & boyfriend, who is a solar inspector. Allergic to most household cleaners on the market, she set out to create a lifestyle that would not only embrace the Green movement, but also promote a happier, healthier home through use of non...

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