I have some copper pipes used for forced hot water heat that run in an unheated area behind an upstairs wall. I want to insulate the pipes because the heat they throw off cause ice dams on my roof, and also, I want to save money by keeping the heat in and prevent them from possibly freezing. I've seen three types of insulation for pipes:
- a styrofoam kind that is very cheap in price.
- a rubber kind that is expensive but looks to be higher quality.
- a fiberglass kind that is just a bit less expensive than the rubber kind.
I'm not sure what is the best type to keep the heat in the pipes and protect them from freezing as well.
2007-02-22 07:33:54 · 4 answers · asked by tony_maine2003 1 in Home & Garden ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
Insultube, made to go over the pipes is the best, sold in 5' lengths. Most comes pre-slit just slide it onto the pipe and seal off all the joints with duct tape. R value I believe is 3 so if freezing is a concern you may want to have anti-freeze added to your boiler system.
2007-02-22 16:57:40 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
The fiberglass is your best bet. Styrofoam is next to worthless. The rubber kind is primarily used for cooling systems, not heating. If the pipes are in a residential home, 1" thick fiberglass will do the trick. Less than 1" will not provide the protection or savings to be worthwhile.
2007-02-24 05:09:41 · answer #2 · answered by Dave 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The Greenish marks are flux which was used to solder the copper joints. It is harmless and usually appears about a couple of months after soldering. it can be cleaned off easily.
2016-05-23 23:40:44 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
FIBERGLASS
2007-02-22 07:47:42 · answer #4 · answered by rvblatz 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋