Insulate your hot water pipes (insulating) to save money
Hot water cools in the pipes before reaching the tap. Insulate them for a few euros.
Recommended Materials
- Foam sleeves (polyethylene)
- Cutter
- Hose clamps (or tape)
Steps to follow
Step 1
Why do it? : The hot water circulating in your pipes (heating or sanitary) loses a lot of heat if the pipes pass through cold areas (garage, cellar, crawl space). It's like you're heating your garage for nothing. Insulating the pipes (insulating) costs a few euros and pays off big.
Step 2
Measure: Take the diameter of your pipes (often 12, 14, 16 or 22 mm for copper) and the total length to be covered.
Step 3
Buy: Polyethylene foam sleeves split lengthwise (available in DIY stores for less than €1 per meter). Take the diameter corresponding exactly to your pipe.
Step 4
Install: Spread the slot in the sleeve and slide it around the pipe. Push well so that the pipe is at the bottom.
Step 5
Angles (Elbows): To make a clean 90° angle, cut the ends of two sleeves at a 45° bevel with a cutter (like a photo frame). Or make a V-notch in the sleeve without cutting it all the way to bend it.
Step 6
Secure: Close the sleeve with the adhesive strips (if supplied) or put a piece of electrician's tape or a zip tie (Rilsan) every 30 cm to keep it securely closed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should cold water be insulated ?
YES! Not for heat, but to prevent condensation (the cold pipe 'sweats' in a damp room and drips to the floor) and to protect against freezing in winter if the garage is not heated.
Precautions
- Insulate well up to the wall.
- Do not leave empty space between two sleeves.
