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Learning, Sharing, and Teaching => Do it Yourself Discussion! => Topic started by: The Money Monk on March 12, 2012, 07:17:25 AM

Title: water heater insulation vs regular
Post by: The Money Monk on March 12, 2012, 07:17:25 AM
I want to insulate my electric water heater, and i have been looking at the insulated jackets they sell.

My question is, is there any reason I can't or shouldn't make one from regular fiberglass insulation? it is cheaper and seems to have a significantly higher R value. I also can usually find scraps for free.
Title: Re: water heater insulation vs regular
Post by: Physics on March 12, 2012, 07:45:05 AM
edit: apparently I can't read and asked you if your electric water heater is gas or electric.

Here is a diagram showing a good technique for both.  There is no reason you can't use normal insulation, assuming it has the appropriate fire safety ratings.
Title: Re: water heater insulation vs regular
Post by: arebelspy on March 12, 2012, 08:40:50 AM
Thermal blanket is a good way to go.  However you do it, this is a good energy and money saving project, kudos.
Title: Re: water heater insulation vs regular
Post by: The Money Monk on March 12, 2012, 09:42:36 AM
Thermal blanket is a good way to go.  However you do it, this is a good energy and money saving project, kudos.

Are you talking about the foil-looking emergency blankets?
Title: Re: water heater insulation vs regular
Post by: The Money Monk on March 12, 2012, 09:45:51 AM
edit: apparently I can't read and asked you if your electric water heater is gas or electric.

Here is a diagram showing a good technique for both.  There is no reason you can't use normal insulation, assuming it has the appropriate fire safety ratings.

Ok good to know, thanks.

My water heater is actually in a very small little closet in one of the bathrooms, so I may just fill all the space between the heater and the wall with insulation.
Title: Re: water heater insulation vs regular
Post by: The Money Monk on March 12, 2012, 09:48:18 AM
edit: apparently I can't read and asked you if your electric water heater is gas or electric.

Here is a diagram showing a good technique for both.  There is no reason you can't use normal insulation, assuming it has the appropriate fire safety ratings.

PS. thanks for the diagram. That will come in handy