Most types of pipe insulation that you see in homes consist of foam. The foam is durable, dense, and resistant enough to heat that it will not melt when pipes get hot. There are multiple types of foam insulation, and there are other insulation materials as well. For example, there are cellular glass and glass wool materials. If you want to discuss the strengths of each available choice, a professional can answer your questions.
Why Is Pipe Insulation Important?
If you want to save money or prevent several problems, insulation is a smart choice. These are the top reasons to insulate your pipes:
Pipe insulation may reduce your utility bills
Insulated pipes are less likely to freeze and burst during the winter
Insulation can help regulate temperature and minimize some pipe noises
How Pipe Insulation Saves Money
Think of an insulated coffee cup. It keeps the liquid in the cup warmer, and pipe insulation works the same way.
According to the Department of Energy, you should reduce your water heater's temperature setting a few degrees after you insulate the pipes. This will ensure that it is not too hot and can help you save money. This also means that you will not have to wait as long for hot water from the tap, which means that you reduce consumption.
Another way that insulated pipes can benefit you financially is by preventing freezing and bursting. If a pipe freezes and bursts, you will have a mess and an insurance claim to handle. Some people also have expensive mold to remove if the water damage is not cleaned up quickly or adequately enough.
Is Pipe Insulation a DIY Project?
If you have experience working for a plumbing company, this may be a project that you can handle. However, if you are not experienced, it is better to hire a professional. These are some of the reasons why:
You have the assurance that the job will be done correctly
Not all homes have the same pipes, and some homes have older pipes
Professionals can fit your pipes with the right type and thickness of insulation
When you choose the wrong type of insulation or install it improperly, it may not yield the same benefits. Another bonus of working with a professional is that you can ask questions. For example, you may want to know what to do if you suspect a small pipe leak behind the insulation and cannot see where it is. A professional can give you valuable tips.
While there are not a lot of freezing days here, pipe insulation can save you an unexpected and unfortunate surprise when there is a cold snap.
It is especially important for homes that are not always occupied. For example, if you spend part of the year in another home, you don’t want to come back to a burst pipe that unleashed thousands of gallons while you were gone.
Also, if you are building a new home, have pipe insulation installed while it is being built. The Department of Energy also recommends that owners of historic homes insulate their pipes.
Our professionals can inspect your pipes and make recommendations. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment with Plumb Level, please call (979) 200-6674.