Homeowners who have traditional water heaters that have a storage tank can reduce the energy consumed by that system by installing an insulating blanket on that heater. You can know that an insulating blanket will be helpful if the tank feels warm to the touch. This article discusses some of the precautions that you should keep in mind as you install that insulating blanket.

Check the Heater's Manual

The first precaution that you should take involves reading the manual of that water heater in order to find out what specific guidelines the manufacturer provides to people who would like to install an insulating blanket on the tank. This precaution will help you to avoid installing a blanket on a heater that wasn't designed to accommodate an insulating blanket. You may also find invaluable tips, such as how wide to cut access holes for valves, when you consult the heater's manual.

Adjust the Thermostat

You may have to lower the thermostat setting by a few degrees (to less than 130°F, for example) after you have installed the insulating blanket. That reduction will help to protect any wiring underneath the blanket from overheating. This precaution is particularly important for owners of electric hot water heaters. This is because the heat that is trapped underneath the insulating blanket can cause the insulation of the wires to melt due to overheating.

Check for Leaks

You should never install an insulating blanket on your hot water heater until you are sure that the tank is free from leaks. An insulating blanket can worsen the effects of any leak. For instance, water may pool on the insulating blanket and promote the growth of mould. The trapped water may also find its way into electrical wiring and cause a short circuit. It is therefore imperative for you to replace a leaking heater since it may be damaged beyond repair.

Don't Ignore the Bottom of the Tank

You can attain greater energy savings if you also insulate the bottom of your hot water heater. Bottom boards are available in plumbing stores. Place the heater on this bottom board so that minimal heat will be lost from that location.

Insulating blankets are inexpensive and easy to install. You will be able to enjoy the full benefits that these simple materials offer if you implement the precautions above during the installation process. Consider hiring an experienced plumber to help you in case you aren't sure that you can install the insulating blanket on your own.

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