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Buying and installing an insulation blanket (also known as a jacket) for your water heater is a simple and inexpensive way to reduce your carbon emissions and energy costs. Insulation blankets cost between $10 and $20, and usually pay for themselves within one year.[1]

How to buy a water heater insulation blanket

Before you begin, make sure that you know what type of water heater you have and its condition.

1. Make sure that your water heater is not leaking; in this case, a new water heater may be best if you can afford it.
2. Also, if you have an oil or gas-powered water heater, the US Department of Energy (DOE) recommends that you consult a qualified contractor, as both fuel sources are flammable.
3. If you have an electric water heater tank and a knack for home improvement, you can insulate the heater yourself. See External links for more information.

Find it! Water heater insulation blankets

Insulation blankets can be found at most hardware or big-box home improvement stores. The Rocky Mountain Institute suggests buying an insulation blanket with an insulation value (R-value) of at least R-8. If you cannot obtain one, the Institute suggests placing two R-5 level blankets over your water heater.[2]

Before you buy

If you plan to shop offline, call ahead to your local hardware store or big-box retailer to be sure they have your correct insulation blanket before you take the trip. Many stores do not completely stock these items, and may have limited selections unsuitable for your unit. Calling ahead can save you time and gasoline.

Buying a water heater insulation blanket helps you go green because...

• It keeps heat from escaping from your water heater, thereby lowering the amount of energy your appliance consumes to maintain the preset thermostat temperature.

Water heater insulation blankets reduce your water heater's energy consumption by 4-9 percent.[3] The Rocky Mountain Institute estimates that water heater insulation can save the average household $14.95 per year while reducing its CO₂ emissions by 263 pounds annually.[4] Placing a bottom board on the bottom side of your water heater reduces energy use by another 4-9 percent.[5]

Energy factor

The energy factor (EF) is the number used to measure the energy-efficiency of a water heater.[6] All new conventional water heaters (those with tanks) have an EF rating; the higher the EF, the more efficient the appliance. According to the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE), the most efficient gas-powered units have an EF of 0.63-0.67, and the most efficient electric water heaters have an EF of 0.93-0.95.[6] Tankless water heaters are measured by different standards, which can be confusing for consumers, but are generally two or more times as energy-efficient, according to the ACEEE.[6]

Glossary

• R-value: This is a measure of the thermal resistance of an object—in layman's terms, the effectiveness of its insulation. The US Department of Energy suggests purchasing water heater models with an R-value of at least 12, and suggests that water heaters with an R-value of 25 or higher are not in need of further insulation.[7] A basic, unscientific rule of thumb is that if your water heater is warm to the touch, it would benefit from an insulation blanket.[8]
• bottom board: A rigid piece of insulation that fits on the bottom side of your water heater, ensuring that less heat escapes from the bottom of the unit.[8]

External links

• US Department of Energy - Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy: Insulate Your Water Heater Tank for Energy Savings
• US Department of Energy - Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy: Installing an Insulation Blanket on an Electric Storage Water Heater