When you turn on a hot-water faucet during cold weather, it may take several seconds for the water to become hot. This happens because the water travels through pipes from the water heater to the faucet, and some of the pipes may pass through unheated sections of the house, such as the basement. As a result, the hot water loses some of its heat to the surrounding space.

Insulating hot water pipes wherever they are accessible--especially in unheated areas can reduce this heat loss. Insulating the first 3 feet of pipe coming from the tank could reduce your water heating costs. To insulate pipes, use a good-quality plastic or rubber foam at least ¾” thick. Do not cover unions or fittings at the end of the flex lines, and stay clear of the draft diverter on gas heaters. Make sure all fittings are dry and in good shape before installing the wrap. Use quality pipe insulation wrap, or neatly tape strips of fiberglass insulation around the pipes. Eventually the water will cool, but it will remain warmer much longer inside insulated pipes.

Email Us for more energy efficiency information or to speak with a Personal Energy Advisor call, 1-800-562-1482.