A water heater blanket saves energy and dollars

A water heater blanket is a plastic-backed sheet of insulation which, when wrapped around the tank, will help it work more efficiently. The burner will cycle less often because the water remains at a higher temperature longer. Equation translation: Energy savings + household savings = less money required to enjoy a hot shower!

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Water heater bl ankets are rated based on their 'R' value just like building insulation. A blanket with R-11 is recommended. The blankets are easy to install - directions call just a razor knife and tape measure.

Take care not to obstruct any labeling on your hot water heater when installing a water heater blanket - provide cutouts so that safety information, product specifications and manufacturer's warranty can be easily accessed by you and your plumber.

Be sure to check your appliance manual before installing a water heater blanket since some newer models advise against using one, or give additional installation instructions. (For instance, there are strict guidelines for installing a blanket around a gas water heater due to pilot light considerations.) If your manual doesn't mention blankets, or if you can't locate the manual for your heater, contact the dealer or manufacturer of the appliance for a recommendation. An additional simple test should also assist in the decision: just place your hand on the exterior of the heater - if it's warm to the touch, a blanket will save you money.

A hot water heater is a tank of water that's heated to a preset temperature. When you use hot water it's drawn from the tank and new cold water replaces it. Regardless of whether any water is used it still takes energy to keep the water hot. Heat is always leaking out to the colder air that surrounds the tank, whether in a heated room or cold garage. Most water heaters have at least a minimal level of insulation to help keep the heat inside the tank. Newer models, especially those built in the last decade, have more insulation than older models.

The bottom line is that water heater blankets are inexpensive, easy to install and efficient - stretching your energy dollars and conserving your energy use!

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