Anyone looking for a way to cut back on their cost of living this winter might consider taking steps to make their household more energy efficient. Inefficient energy consumption, particularly in heating, is one of the leading causes of high electricity bills. It is also often times an easy fix. One simple action that can significantly increase energy efficiency is the installation of a hot water heater blanket.

Hot water heater blankets work by insulating a hot water heater and preventing heat loss from the tank. By doing this, a gas or electric heating system will not have to work nearly as hard as it would on an un-insulated tank. Hot water heater blankets save energy and money.

To install a hot water heater insulating blanket, measure and cut the insulation for the top of the tank so that it fits around the piping, the use tape to secure the cut section closed. Next, fold down the corners of the topside insulation and tape the excess insulation to the side of the tank.

Next, wrap and position the hot water heater insulation blanket around the water heater tank. Positioning the blanket so that the ends do not overlap over the side-access panels may make installation easier. After you are satisfied with the position of the blanket, secure the blanket with the belts provided. This step is normally easiest with two people. Also, make sure to position the belts so that they do not cover the access panels.

Since some hot water heater tanks have pipes protruding from the sides of the tank rather than the top, the blanket may need to be cut or positioned differently so that these pipes are not covered. In addition, you may have to make adjustments depending on the size of your water heater. Make sure to buy a blanket that fits your water heater. If you have a larger 75 gallon water heater you will need a slightly larger blanket. Finally, cut the access panel flaps in an “x” shape and fold the corners under the blanket.

The hot water heater blanket is now fully installed and ready for use. It is important not to set the thermostat above 130 degrees F as this may overheat the wires. This new insulation blanket should reduce heating bills by up to 10%.

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