How to insulate your pipes to save money

Insulating your pipes can save you money as it reduces energy loss. The distance travelled by pipes can be far, which means they are exposed to colder air and can be at risk of freezing. This can be expensive to fix. It’s well worth the effort to insulate pipes yourself, saving you money in the long run!

If you are setting about insulating pipes yourself, ask yourself the following questions: ‘How long are the pipes?’, ‘What size are the pipes?’ and ‘What material do i need to insulate the pipe?’. You can measure the length and diameter of pipe yourself using a simple tape measure. If you’re unsure about what material to use to insulate your pipes, you can pop into a hardware shop and speak to a professional there.

Pipe sleeves made with Polyethylene or Neoprene foam are commonplace when it comes to insulating electric water heaters.

Materials
If you have a gas water heater, it’s important to note that insulation shouldn’t directly touch the flue but should be at least six inches away. Fibreglass pipe wrap that’s one inch in thickness, minimum, is a good choice if your flue is within eight inches of the pipe.

Items you’ll need to insulate your pipes yourself (for electric water heaters) include: a tape measure, pipe sleeves, duct tape or cable ties to secure the sleeves, scissors, a utility knife, and a light.

Items you’ll need to insulate pipes yourself (for gas water heaters) include: a tape measure, strips of fibreglass insulation, aluminium foil tape, gloves and long sleeved clothing, scissors, a utility knife, and a light.

How to insulate your pipes
1. You’ll need to measure your pipes. The starting point should be the water heater. From here, measure the lengths of insulation you’ll need to cover the pipes.

2. Next, cut the pipe sleeve. To do this, cut the insulation materials to the lengths you’ve measured.

3. Securing the pipe sleeves. Put the pipe sleeve face down on the pipe and then using your tape or cable ties, secure the material to the pipe. You can judge this for yourself but you should secure it at least every couple of feet to make sure it’s securely in place.

Of course, you can also get your pipes insulated professionally if DIY isn't your forte, although there will be an expense attached to this for the materials and labour cost.

Et voila. Insulated pipes that may save you water, energy and money!