How to buy and install Insulation Blanket for Hot Water Heater?

Question

My landlord recently replaced the electric water heater in my house. So I have a brand new 50-gallon electric water heater. However, my electric bill has not gone down in cost. The water heater is in the unheated basement and the water comes from a cold water well.

A timer is not really a good option since we use hot water at various times of night and day, and the temperature setting has already been reduced.


How do I purchase and install an insulation blanket for the hot water heater? Any tips for installation that I should know?

Answer 1

I do not reccomend insulation blankets on a water heater because if they are improperly installed they can be a fire hazard. and you shouldn't need it if it is a new water heater. assure the heater is wired correctly and is receiving the correct voltage. make sure both thermostats are set the same, the upper and lower. also if your heater is set higher than 120ish it may also run alot more. Insulating the hot water pipes in the basement won't make your heater run less, the thermostat is in the heater, not in the pipes. and the heater tank is already insulated.

I would also look for other possible ways to reduce electric bill if it is high or a concern.

Answer 2

Replacing an electric water heater with a newer electric unit will not substantially change your electric bill. However, replacing an older gas unit with a new high efficiency gas unit should create a modest difference on your gas bill.

Before exploring any blanket - read and follow the manufacturer's instructions. In most cases, the addition of a blanket will void the warranty. Here's Rheem's/Rudd's recommendations from their use and care manual...

Insulation blankets, available to the
general public, for external use on electric
water heaters are not necessary. The
purpose of an insulation blanket is to
reduce the standby heat loss encountered
with storage tank heaters. This water
heater meets or exceeds the National
Appliance Energy Conservation Act
standards with respect to insulation and
standby loss requirements making an
insulation blanket unnecessary.
The manufacturer’s warranty does not
cover any damage or defect caused by
installation, attachment or use of
any type of energy saving or other
unapproved devices (other than those
authorized by the manufacturer) into, onto
or in conjunction with the water heater.
The use of unauthorized energy saving
devices may shorten the life of the water
heater and may endanger life and property.

In most cases, you would be better off insulating the UNINSULATED hot water pipes in your basement, than adding additional insulation to the ALREADY INSULATED tank.

Good Luck!

Answer 3

First, measure the circumference of the tank with a piece of string, so you know how many inches around it is. Then measure the height. Take these 2 numbers with you to Lowe's. They will have stock blankets for water heaters, but may not have one for your size tank. If necessary, splice 2 together, or fabricate one out of kraft faced insulation, 24" wide, using duct tape. I'd use about R-13 (3 1/2 inches thick) or R-19 (5 1/2 inches thick) if space allows. Make cutouts to access pop off valve and tank drain.

Answer 4

Spend your money on wrapping your water pipes, most likely the out side of your water heater is not hot now, so you will not be loosing heat there.

My guess you are using lots of hot water. Try to cut down your consumption.

Answer 5

a water heater blanket just wraps around the unit and comes with tape to hold the 2 edges together.....think along the lines of a big beer hugger, lol.......

lic. gen. contractor

Answer 6

Nort is right but you might also consider insulating the pipes in the basement. It can't hurt.

Answer 7

Any home place will have it, and instructions come with it. Check when you buy it to see if you nee to buy tape of any kind,