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The Best Water Heater Blankets to Provide Reliable Insulation

Writen by Ronald Brown

Fact checked by Natalie Bridges

Low heater insulation is one of the primary causes of high energy bills. It happens because the old water heater is using more energy to work correctly. Especially in the winter months, it will use more power because it also loses much heat. It is why you need the best water heater blanket that can offer hot water heater insulation and improves its energy efficiency.

best water heater blanket

Water heater blankets might look the same, but they have features that define their insulating capabilities. We examined the best-selling water heater blankets and learned three significant factors that differentiate the best from the mediocre.

  • Material: Water heater blankets vary in insulating materials. Fiberglass has the top-tier insulation, but it’s also a hassle to set up. In contrast, foil insulators are easier to install, but their heating capability is lower than fiberglass. Cotton and denim are slightly more effective than foil insulators, but they’re quite expensive.
  • R-value: This attribute defines a water heater blanket’s insulating power. As a rule, the higher the product’s R-value, the better its insulation capabilities. Most water heater blankets have an R-value of 7.0 – 8.0. Note that prices increase with a commensurate rise in R-values.
  • Thickness and Size: The water heater blanket must wrap around the storage tank without gaps to ensure maximal insulation. Meanwhile, the material’s thickness prevents cold air from penetrating through the layer and cooling the water heater.

But then, you must choose the right one to fit your needs because these insulation blankets are available in different configurations, such as the size of the tank that they fit. We’ve prepared a buying guide to help you select among water heater jackets. We’ve also outlined the things to check when choosing the right one. Let’s get started.

Top-Rated Products

Best Overall

SmartJacket Water Heater Blanket

Details

Honorable Mention

Frost King Water Heater Blanket

Details

Best Value

 US Energy Water Heater Tank

Details

Table of Contents

Top-Quality Water Heater Blanket Reviews

1. SmartJacket Water Heater Blanket Insulation

There is one good reason why an increasing number of households install SmartJacket blankets in their water heater systems. This product can reduce heat loss by as much as 40 percent and allows the family to enjoy more significant savings in the future.

The SmartJacket works a lot like any other insulation wrap. The difference is that it uses pure aluminum foil and none of the potentially-harmful substances seen in fiberglass-based solutions. When you install the SmartJacket on your water heater tank, you will feel safe not inhaling fiberglass particles.

This product can fit 30 to 60-gallon water heaters, although some customers have been able to use it for an 80-gallon tank. This is more significant than what other products can offer. Unfortunately, the SmartJacket only works with gas and electric systems. If you have an oil-based water heater system, you may want to look for a different product.

Also, the 80 gallon water heater blanket is relatively thin at only 5 millimeters. You will have to be extra careful in its installation. The included tape is not as sticky as I want it to be as well.

If you are meticulous in your installation, the SmartJacket can be an excellent insulation system. You can start enjoying long hot showers any time, any day and budget for more worthwhile activities with your family.

What We Like
  • Effective in reducing heat loss by up to 40 percent
  • Can fit larger-sized water heater tanks
  • Does not contain unsafe and toxic substances
  • Made of premium quality aluminum foil
What We Don’t Like
  • Only works with electric and gas water heater systems
  • Aluminum foil and tape require extra care

2. Frost King SP60 All Season Water Heater Blanket

The Frost King SP60 is a reliable insulation solution for reducing the rate of heat loss in your water heater tank systems.

One of the things that make this water heater blanket the right choice among many households is its compatibility with different water heater tanks and energy efficiency. You can use it on your oil, electric, or even gas-powered water heater tank. Installing it is also as easy as wrapping the blanket around the tank and securing it with the accompanying adhesive tape.

The Frost King features an ingenious design that combines foil and fiberglass on both sides of the blanket. It is 3 inches thick, although the company also has 1- and 2- inch versions of the Frost King. Its R-value of 10 may not seem sufficient to mitigate heat loss and improve your water system’s heat retention capabilities. However, many customers commend the SP60 for its ability to provide them with hot water for extended periods.

While the SP60 water heater jacket works with different water heater systems, it does not fit heaters that are over 60 gallons.

Despite this drawback, Frost King SP60 remains the best water heater blanket for those who want to insulate a water heater and a reliable solution for improving their tank system’s heat retention abilities.

What We Like
  • Ideal for different types of water heaters, including gas, electric, and oil
  • Reliable heat retention capabilities for energy savings
  • 3 thickness options (1 to 3 inches)
  • Comes with complete installation materials
What We Don’t Like
  • Does not fit tanks over 60 gallons

3. US Energy Products Water Heater Tank Insulation

Suppose you want a more affordable and equally effective solution to retain heat and reduce heat loss from your water heater tank system. In that case, the US Energy Products Water Heater Tank Insulation Wrap is for you. This is a product that is easy to install and fits different water heater systems.

Some products are only compatible with electric water heaters and gas water heater systems. This is not the case with the USEP. You can also install this product on oil water heater systems. Best of all, you can fit it even on large 80-gallon tanks. It already comes complete with all the installation materials you will ever need. The only thing you need is to plan how you will wrap your tank with the product.

This insulation material features an energy-efficient system that can help you save as much as 20 percent of your energy bills. You will never have to fret about toxic substances and allergenic compounds as you wrap the insulation over your tank.

The only issue with this product is the insufficient adhesive capabilities of its tape. Buying my own tape is not costly at all, though, so for me this is not a big problem.

While the US Energy Products Insulation Wrap is not flawless, it does offer an excellent choice for budget-conscious households. It is also easy to install and maintain while improving your household heating and giving you significant savings.

What We Like
  • Up to 20 percent energy savings
  • Fits different kinds of water heater systems and 80-gallon tanks
  • Comes with complete installation kit
  • Made of hypoallergenic and non-toxic materials
What We Don’t Like
  • Some issues with the tape peeling off

4. SmartJacket Water Heater Blanket Insulation System

With its foam aptly protected by aluminum foil, the SmartJacket blanket is sturdy and durable. The product is also safe as it has no fiberglass and is both non-toxic and non-carcinogenic. It is even energy-star certified, which guarantees its efficiency and safety.

Moreover, this insulator blanket can be used for both electric and gas water heater models due to its construction. As such, you can easily switch between these two units without any worries.

This blanket is also useful. While a water heater is an essential and valuable appliance in your home, there is no denying that it also presents a big chunk of your household expenses. However, you can cut down your costs by using a water heater jacket.

Compared to other heater jackets, this SmartJacket has an R-value of 7.1. With this feature, the jacket can effectively reduce heat loss by up to 40%.

As such, your water heater tank can retain its temperature as well as improve its lifespan. Your heating bills can be reduced by 9% as well.

This SmartJacket water heater blanket is also big enough to fit 20- to 60-gallon water heater tanks. I like this product because it leaves a small space between the water tank and the blanket, which will give you better results. It even has an extra sheet of insulation that you can use as an insulating lid for the water heater tank.

Because of this, you can effectively retain the temperature of the water heater tank for a more extended period. The more time you can maintain the optimal temperature, the more you can cut down on costs. Another thing I like about this insulating jacket is that it is easy to install. Plus, the instructions are basic enough that you can install the product by yourself.

If there’s one drawback to this product, it’s the price. It can be a bit expensive for some people.
What We Like
  • Can cover 20- to 60-gallon water heater tanks
  • Made of durable and safe materials
  • R-value of 7.1, energy-star certified
  • Can reduce heating bills by 9%
  • Easy to install with instructions, has extra insulation sheet
  • Can be used in both electric and gas tanks
What We Don’t Like
  • Can be a bit expensive

5. Reach Barrier 3016 Water Heater Insulation Kit

The Reach Barrier 3016 is a water heater installation kit with eight reach barrier bubble insulation panels, a garage door cleaner sponge, permanent bond adhesive tape, and an informative instruction guide. With this complete set, the user no longer needs to trouble himself with looking for and procuring the necessary materials.

I like how the kit’s panels are already pre-cut, which makes it easy to install. The instruction guide that comes with the kit is also easy to read and understand. As such, you can even install the product on your own. You would not require any special tools or materials to do so.

Moreover, the whole water heater installation kit is made of safe and durable materials. The company has ensured that they comply with ASTM standards and the Building and Fire Codes.

The Reach Barrier 3016 water blanket is an effective insulator for water heater tanks. The water heater blanket is made of 2 layers of thick bubble barrier that is fitted snugly between two layers of reflective polyethylene.

Because of this, the water heater insulating blanket delivers consistent R values. This feature helps it trap the heat of the water heater tank for a longer time. Plus, with its barrier technology, the insulating blanket can effectively block and prevent up to 95% of the heat from escaping. With this efficiency, the blanket would help you cut down on costs.

Aside from that, this insulator blanket is also versatile since it can be used safely on both electric and gas units. As such, you can still use it even when you change models in the future.

However, this product only covers heaters up to 40 gallons in size, so if yours is bigger, it won’t be a suitable choice.
What We Like
  • Comes with all the necessary materials like sponge and tape
  • Complies with ASTM standards and Building code
  • Thick bubble barrier and reflective polyethylene
  • Helps cut down heating costs
  • Can be used safely on gas and electric units
What We Don’t Like
  • Only covers up to 40 gallons

6. US Energy Products Water Heater Blanket Insulation

With a thickness of only 1.25 inch, the US Energy Products water heater blanket is one of the thinnest insulating blankets on the market.

I like the thinness of the material since it helps save space. It is also not bulky, which makes it easy to clean and maintain. As such, you can also quickly put it away and store it in a corner.

The thinness of the material does not, however, reduce the product’s efficiency or whatnot. Many users stated that this product is an excellent hot water heater insulator for their water heater tanks due to its R-value of 7.

Made of high-quality foil, this water heater blanket effectively reflects the heat radiated by your water heater. It sends the heat back to regulate and maintain the tank’s temperature. Because of this, the US Energy Product’s insulating blanket helps reduce and cut heating costs.

Moreover, the company has also ensured that the insulation for hot water heaters is made from safe and durable materials. It does not contain any fiberglass and complies with health protocols.

I also like that US Energy Product’s heating blanket is big enough to cover most water heater tanks. You can use it for tanks up to 80 gallons.

Aside from this, the insulating blanket is safe to use on electric and gas units. As such, you won’t have to stick to one type of heater with this blanket.

Due to its material, the blanket is also easy to clean and maintain. You can wipe it down if there is any dirt present. It is also easy to install, considering that it is thin and lightweight. You can even do it on your own.

Some customers received the kit without enough items. However, they got everything in full after emailing the supplier. Still, it is one of the feature-packed options out there. Check it out for yourself.
What We Like
  • One of the thinnest on the market
  • Easy to clean, install, maintain and store
  • Features a high and significant insulating ability (R-value of 7)
  • Made of safe and non-toxic materials (foil, no fiberglass)
  • Can cover most water heater tanks (80 gallons maximum, electric or gas)
What We Don’t Like
  • Some items might left out in delivery

7. Ant Enterprises Reflective Water Heater Blanket Jacket

The Ant Enterprises water heater blanket is made of high-quality aluminum, which is both safe and non-toxic. As such, you would not have to worry about the material irritating your skin or eyes.

Moreover, the material also makes the jacket durable. With a class 1 or class A fire rating, Ant Enterprises’ insulating jacket is fire-resistant. In other words, it would not spread fire as quickly as other materials.

When you put it on the water heater tank, the foil reflects all the heat lost back into the said tank. With this ability, the user can save and cut down on heating costs.

Compared to other insulating blankets, this product also comes with the free tape. As such, you would not have to go through the hassle of purchasing one. With the free tape, along with its easy instruction manual, you can quickly install the blanket on your own.

I also like how Ant Enterprises’ water heater blanket is versatile. Due to its material, it can be used on and electric water heater models. Because of this, you can still use the product even if you change water heaters in the future.

Like all other water heater blankets, this product is also easy to clean. You can wipe it down using a cloth and some water to get rid of the dirt.

The material is also relatively thin and lightweight, making it easy to install since you would not have to wrestle with a lot of material. It is also easy to store and put away. The problem is, it only fits up to 40-gallon tanks.
What We Like
  • Class 1/Class A fire rating
  • High-quality aluminum that doesn’t irritate eyes or skin
  • Can effectively trap and insulate heat
  • The product comes with its free tape and manual
  • Compatible with gas, and electric water heaters
  • Cleaning and storing are simple
What We Don’t Like
  • It only fits up to 40-gallon tanks.

8. M-D Building Products 4663 M-D 0 Water Heater Blanket

The M-D Building Products 4663 water heater blanket is made of vinyl-backed fiberglass. It is quite sturdy and durable, ensuring the user that it will last for a long time.

Measuring 48 inches x 75 inches, the 4663 insulating jackets can fit most water heater tanks sizes. According to different water heater insulation blanket reviews, this blanket can fit up to 60-gallon tanks.

It is also useful in maintaining and insulating heat. With an R-value of 6.7 coupled with a thickness of 2 inches, M-D Building’s 4663 water heater blanket can significantly reduce heat loss in your tank. With this feature, you can effectively cut down on heating costs and save in the long run.

I like how the jacket is easy to install. The package comes with adhesive tape, which makes for a quick assembly.

Moreover, the material is not so thick that it would pose problems in installation. The guide is also easy to read and understand. Users can even set everything up on their own.

You can easily remove and roll it when it is not in use. I also like how its measurements make the 4663 blankets easy to clean and maintain. You only need to wipe it down with a cloth and some soapy water to get rid of dirt.

Aside from that, the M-D Building Product’s water heater jacket is also versatile as it is compatible with gas, oil, and electric water heater tanks. As such, you would not have to purchase a new blanket when you change units in the future.

Some reported odor emitted by this blanket. This smell eventually goes away though, so it’s not something to worry about. Overall, it is one of the most suitable choices for a water heater jacket, which can offer enough insulation for your heating system.
What We Like
  • Made of vinyl-backed fiberglass
  • Size can fit up to 60-gallon tanks.
  • The product comes with adhesive tape and guide for DIY installation
  • R-value of 6.7 coupled with a thickness of 2 inches
  • Made for gas, oil, and electric water heaters
  • Painless storage and maintenance
What We Don’t Like
  • Users state that the blanket emits some odor

9. Reflective Foil Heater Insulation Jacket

The Reflective Foil insulation jacket is made of commercial-grade foil certified and tested to be safe. Plus, it is also non-toxic and non-carcinogenic.

Moreover, the product is also sturdy and durable. With a class 1 or class A fire rating, Reflective Foil’s insulation blanket possesses resistance to fire. As such, the company ensures that the jacket does not burn as quickly as similar products.

I like how this insulating jacket comes in an all-in-one kit. Aside from the blanket, you get foil spacers, foil tape, and a clear and understandable instruction manual. With these on hand, you can directly install the product once you’ve received the package.

Reflective foil’s water insulating jacket is also relatively thin at 0.19 inches. This thinness, however, does not negatively drop the product’s quality. With layers of foil and polyethylene bubbles, the insulating blanket is effective in trapping and regulating heat. Once installed, it effectively reflects and then sends the heat lost back into the water tank.

With this feature, the water heater tank will retain more heat for a longer period. Over time, this feature will help in lowering heating costs and, as such, save money. I also like how the thin material makes the product lightweight and easier to install. This quality also makes the blanket easy to fold and store away for later use since it does not take up a lot of space.

The Reflective Foil hot water tank blanket is also versatile since it is compatible with propane, gas, and electric water heater tanks. As such, you can use it despite changes in tank type.

Aside from that, the blanket is also long, measuring 48 inches x 76 inches. With this length, you can sufficiently cover up to 40-gallon tanks. However, some reported it could be hard to install alone, but most feedback revealed its overall efficiency.
What We Like
  • Made of safe commercial-grade foil and polyethylene
  • Resistant to fire
  • Comes with spacers, tape, and installation guide
  • The blanket is relatively thin, which makes it easy to handle
  • Can completely cover up to 40-gallon tanks
  • Fits propane, gas, electric water heaters
What We Don’t Like
  • Some users found it challenging to install alone.

Outdated Products

Thermwell Products SP57-5 Water Heater Blanket (Outdated)

If you want to save energy and prevent your heater from losing heat, you must check out this water heater blanket. It is an easy to install and affordable solution that many homeowners pick in this category. There is no doubt that it is consistently on top of the list among similar products on the market.

Plus, this model is also fit for up to 60-gallon tanks. It is one of the most versatile choices that you should not miss when comparing your options. Also, this water heater blanket can effectively deliver its purpose of saving you much money because it can reduce your water heater’s recovery time.

This product is made of durable materials, including vinyl and fiberglass. It will indeed serve you for years, so don’t think twice about including it in your list when considering a new or replacement water heater blanket.

I also recommend this blanket because it is perfect for most water heaters, including gas, oil or electric. Plus, the blanket also comes with a roll of plastic tape, so you don’t need to buy one when you choose this item.

However, some complained about the included plastic tape not holding up well. The adhesive is not that strong, according to some people. Nevertheless, these reports were isolated, and many are still satisfied with their purchase, reporting the quality, durability, and effectiveness of this heater blanket.
What We Like
  • Durable vinyl backed fiberglass to serve you for years
  • Reduces water heater’s recovery time, helps save money
  • A breeze to install and affordable
What We Don’t Like
  • Tape not very adhesive


What Is A Water Heater Blanket/ Who Is This For

best-hot-water-heater-blanket

A water heater blanket, also referred to as an insulation blanket, is designed for water tank heaters. As the name suggests, it is a thick sheet used to insulate the water heater so you can control the extreme heat loss and maintain the water temperature.

Most homeowners use an insulation blanket, such as an R11 water heater blanket, because it is the cheapest alternative to support their water heaters, maintain and even increase their temperature. This is ultimately a good investment for those who want to save on energy costs.

Suppose you consider that almost 20% of all your energy consumption goes into water heating. In that case, you will realize how efficient a blanket can be so you can save 10% of the energy intended for water heating.

Aside from water heater owners who want to save on bills, this is also ideal for those who want to make the most out of their hot water tank systems. Since the insulator blanket can help retain the water’s heat, no additional electricity would be needed, and you’ll be putting less pressure on your water heater.

How Does It Work

Piling up with blankets is a common practice when the weather is cold. You want to bundle up because it makes you warm. It helps increase the temperature and retain that warm feeling. This is almost the same logic that water heater blankets follow, but instead of a human body that needs to keep warm, it is the water heater tank that they support.

Water heaters are designed to make your water hot. When you open your tap and need hot water, your heating system takes care of that request and delivers that water. Sure, your hot water system is doing its job, but it wastes the energy used to heat the water in the process.

Imagine boiling several cups of water for coffee, but you only need one cup in the end. What will happen to the rest of the unused hot water? It will just stay there until it gets cold, and if you need another cup, you’d have to heat it again. It is a complete waste of energy on your part to do the task and a waste of hot water.

This is where the water heater blanket comes into play. As the water heater does its job of increasing the water temperature, the blanket made of insulating materials will keep the heat from getting lost. It helps keep the reserve of water warm for a more extended period.

Your water heater cover will act as the insulator so that your water heater does not expend as much energy to keep the water hot for you. It retains the temperature.

What Are The Different Types Of Water Heater Blankets

hot-water-heater-insulation

It is highly recommended that the water heater wrap you get has an R-Value of more than 10. The material used and the thickness of the insulating material can impact the R-Value.

There are different kinds of water heater blankets based on the material that is used. Here are just some of the common ones used today:

Fiberglass – is a trendy choice now; this is one of the universal insulation materials. It is made from melted glass that is either spun or blown into fibers. Most of the producers use 40% to 60% recycled glass content. High-density fiberglass blankets with a 2 x 4 inches dimension have an R-15 value, while a 2 x 6 inches has an R-21 value. The thicker it is, the higher its insulating power.

Cotton – blanket insulators are usually composed of 85% recycled cotton and 15% plastic fibers treated with borate. Borate is a flame retardant and rodent repellent used in cellulose insulation. Minimal energy is used when it comes to the manufacturing of cotton water heater blankets because of its recycled content.

Aluminum foil is another good material used in insulation because it stops the radiation of heat by reflecting its source. This is a better insulator than most materials because it slows down the heat flow from one place to another.

Denim – yes, these is your good old jeans. This is a water heater blanket from blue jeans converted into pieces and scraps of thermal insulation. Believe it or not, denim has all the properties needed to be a good insulator. It has a lower density which reduces its thermal conductivity, so heat transfer from one spot to another is minimized. Its advantages almost rival fiberglass when it comes to being a barrier against heat.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Using Water Heater Blanket

If you have a water heater, but it is not equipped with a water heater blanket, then you should seriously consider getting one. Water heater blankets are relatively simple, and you can even make them without skill and special equipment. Do not, however, underestimate the simple nature and purpose of a water heater blanket.

It can save you a great deal of money when it comes to your energy and gas bills. It also saves you time and effort. The following are the significant benefits you get from having your water heater installed with a water heater blanket.

Cost – while investing in a water heater blanket will cost you money, you will still save money in the long run. This is because water heater tanks are not designed to emit heat itself, so the energy that is supposed to heat your water will only go to waste. You are paying for that energy, which realistically is wasted energy.

Putting in a water heater blanket will change this process because it comes with dominant insulating properties that will keep the energy you are paying for inside your water tank. This will reduce the amount of energy being used, lower your energy consumption, and eventually result in a lower energy bill.

Energy Use – if you want to go green and help save the environment while having hot water in your home, insulating blankets are the perfect solution. For a small investment, you can reduce the number of fossil fuels that your home guzzles.

This can be when these fossils are burned so heat can be produced directly or burned so electricity can be created that will be used to give you hot water. Without a water heater blanket, you will keep on consuming energy only to be inefficiently wasted.

Efficiency – a water heater blanket can help promote the longevity of your water heater system. It will not use as much energy as before to heat the tank so that the water can retain the heat better, and warming it up can be done faster without your system working at maximum capacity.

The disadvantages of having a water heater blanket are virtually non-existent. The drawbacks are just small compromises for bountiful benefits. Water heater blankets would require installation, and most would need a professional to do it, especially with gas heaters. This is an additional upfront cost, but you get a winning deal with these blankets.

Buying Guide

r11-water-heater-blanket

Water heaters have become an essential part of the household, but the reality is, as pleasant as the hot water they bring is, it also takes a considerable chunk of your energy use. Their operational costs are not really friendly to the budget. One way to still enjoy your hot water sans the alarming bills is to get a water heater blanket. This step permits your water heater to be energy-efficient.

Water insulator blankets are reasonably straightforward, but shopping and buying one need careful consideration to make sure you get the top-rated ones on the market. Here are a few things you need to keep in mind when getting your water heater blanket:

Insulating Power – this is also referred to as the R-value of the blanket. This is the capability of your insulating blanket to resist heat flow. The higher the R-value, the better because it means that it is more capable of protecting your water tank’s heated temperature, so get the highest R-value water heater blanket.

Materials of the Insulator – this has a massive impact on the R-value of your prospective insulating blanket. The most common materials used are cotton and fiberglass. Both provide reliable insulation, but each material will have a set of advantages and disadvantages like any other product. Regardless, both materials are well tested and can satisfy you with their effectiveness and functionality.

Size and thickness – the size will have to depend on the actual size of your water heater. There are pre-cut blankets, and you just have to put them on your water heater tank. The thickness, however, can affect the functionality of the blanket. The thicker it is, the more it can insulate your water heater and keep the temperature stable.

Water Heater Location – the location of your water heater is also a deciding factor. If your water heater is situated inside your home, perhaps inside a closet, then chances are, you don’t need a blanket for it because the temperature of your home is enough to keep it warm. But if it is located outside, like in the garage where the exterior temperature is different from that of the water heater itself, then yes, a blanket is necessary.

Your actual water heater – technically, it’s the one that’s going to ‘wear’ the blanket, so consider its dimensions, shape, and size. If you have an oddly shaped heater, you may need to get a bigger and flexible water heater blanket so all of its angles and corners can be wrapped and fully enclosed.

The type of water heater you have also needs to be included in the considerations if it is an electric or a gas type heater. Water heater blankets like the Duck brand 280464 water heater insulation blanket can be used in all water heater tanks from gas, oil, to electric units.

These factors can help you ensure that the product you plan to buy will suit your needs and be a good insulating blanket for your water heater.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How to insulate an outdoor tankless water heater?

Any device designed for the outdoors should withstand the elements. Otherwise, they are indoor-use-only products. It is the same logic as outdoor tankless water heaters. Hence, hot water heater covers might be unnecessary.

However, the pipes that supply water to the tankless water heater are not necessarily “frost-proof” or weatherproof. You might want to protect these with a sleeve for water pipes. An insulation jacket for water pipes should keep the tubes warm enough to prevent the water from freezing.

Alternatively, you can buy heat tape—a type of electrical cable—and wrap it around the water pipes. It is one of the most efficient ways to insulate the pipe supplying water to the outdoor tankless water heater.

If you are worried about the outdoor tankless water heater freezing, wrapping it with an electric water heater blanket should keep it warm and bring you peace of mind.

What size water heater blanket do you need?

The size of the water blankets depends on your water-heating device’s dimensions.

For example, the 50-gallon Rheem Professional Prestige has a 22.25-inch diameter and 48-inch height. Hence, you will need a hot water tank insulation material large enough to wrap around the hot water tank without leaving any gaps for maximum heat retention.

Note that manufacturers of water heater insulation kits do not tailor-fit their products for specific water heater brands and models. Instead, they consider the most common storage tank sizes (i.e., 30-, 40-, 50-, 60-, 80-, and 98-gallons) and design water heater insulating blankets with dimensions sufficient to cover these measurements.

Sadly, a water heater protector for a 98-gallon or 128-gallon unit might not be readily available. You might want to make a DIY water heater blanket in such instances.

Do I need to maintain my water heater blanket?

No, you do not need to maintain your outdoor water tank insulation blanket unless it features denim, cotton, or fiberglass. These materials can lose their insulating capabilities and develop a foul smell when wet. Hence, you might want to dry the insulation for water tank after a downpour or wipe off the dew in the early morning.

Even when the blanket does not get moist, homeowners must always inspect the insulation for signs of deterioration or damage at least once every 2-3 months. You might want to check the area near a gas water heater’s furnace because excessive heat can degrade the blanket, especially for materials with poor fire resistance.

Periodic cleaning should also keep the water heater blanket in tip-top shape.

How long will your water heater blanket last?

High-quality, well-kept blankets will typically outlast any water heater, be it gas-powered or electric unit. In other words, these protective layers can stay usable for at least 15 years.

Are water heater blankets worth it?

Yes, water heater blankets are worth it. According to the US Department of Energy, these products can save families seven to sixteen percent in their water heating expenditures.

For example, a household spending $500 annually on heating water will save $35 to $80. This should be more than enough to answer your question of, “do hot water heater blanket save money?”

What makes these blankets so cost-efficient? Simply put, these products can reduce standby heat loss—the heat released by the tank heating system when not in use—by 25 to 45 percent. As a result, the heater will require more energy (meaning more money) to raise the water temperature to its ideal level.

What are the most trusted water heater blankets?

With so many brands, such as Frost king water heater insulation blanket, and types, like non fiberglass water heater blanket, choosing one particular brand can be difficult. Thankfully, you can have a reasonable basis for coming up with a good list because of honest reviews and customer feedback. A few of the most trusted include

  • Smart jacket water heater blanket
  • Frost King
  • US Energy Products
  • Thermwell

Pick any of these brands and you already have a good deal. These brands are top favorites because of their tested reliability and functionality.

Do water heater blankets really work?

Based on homeowners’ reviews and feedback, these blankets can be guaranteed to work 100%. You won’t see much difference with the hot water coming out from your shower. It will always be hot, but you will know that it is working when you compare your energy bills before and after installing a water heater insulator. It is not an overnight change, but the effectiveness can be experienced financially.

Your potential long-term energy savings will significantly rely on the kind of blanket you incorporate into your system. Again, you will barely notice it, but it will work through extending your water heater system’s longevity.

Since it doesn’t need to heat your water at its maximum capacity, thanks to your water heater blanket that helps retain the temperature, your system’s service life is extended. It is not pushed every time to work 100% but only at an adequate level.

Water heater blankets work because more and more homeowners are opting to get one, and this means it is a product that fulfills its purpose and even exceeds the market’s expectations. Its many benefits outnumber the few shortcomings of installing one.

Should I wrap my water heater with insulation blankets?

You can, but there are factors that you need to consider before deciding on wrapping your water heater with an insulation blanket.

Note that most water heaters today already come with insulation. You have to consider first the age of your water heater. New ones already come with it, but older heaters will likely need and appreciate an additional insulation layer, especially during the winter season.

If your water heater is a newer one, make sure that you consult the manual. There might be an indication that you should not insulate the heater on the outside. Or that the water heater unit should not be wrapped at all.

Another factor you need to consider is the climate in your home. If you live where the weather is mostly cold and the heater is outside, like in your garage, then a blanket may help. But if you live in areas where the climate is warmer, then the extra insulation won’t be necessary, especially if your water heater is already inside your house.

Lastly, check the outside temperature of your water heater tank. The rule of thumb is, if you place your hand on the unit and it feels warm or hot, then you would need a blanket to wrap around it.

Can you insulate a gas water heater?

By all means, yes, you can insulate your gas water heater. All you need to do is get its measurements and dimensions so you can fit the insulating material of your choice and install it afterward.

All is well as long as you do it properly. Gas water heater insulation has long been a debate because of the fire security that revolves around it. Most do not recommend using water heater blankets because you will allow the flame to grow and spill out in case of fire. Another reason why some are skeptical is because of the airflow.

The top of the gas water heater has an opening to let air flow inside the vent. The vent is a tube from the burner section going through the water tank. Getting the top wrapped and covered by a blanket may cause a lot of issues. This can cause the blanket to catch fire from the heat being released.

As long as you avoid wrapping certain areas, you should be alright. The controller, anode, and pressure relief valve should be free from any obstructions. Don’t fret if the blankets appear a little short.

How to use it?

To use your water heater blanket, you need to be able to install it successfully first. Some might opt for a professional to install it, but you can do it yourself if you are confident with your skills and patience. Here are the steps to put it on so you can use it.

  1. Turn off your water heater. If you are using an electric heater, you have to switch off the breaker, while for gas water heaters, you must turn the valve to the ‘Pilot’ position.
  2. Get the correct measurements and dimensions of your water heater and make necessary adjustments if needed. Ensure that you leave the top portion of your water heater open so you don’t block the vent.
  3. Wrap the insulation blanket around your water heater and temporarily set it in place using tape. For easier installation, position your blanket so that its ends do not cover the water heater tank’s access panels.
  4. Mark the areas with controls and cut them out. Make sure to leave sufficient space around the burner and valve. The opening should at least be an inch wider than the valve and burner area too.
  5. Permanently set the blanket around your water tank heater.
  6. You can now turn your water heater back on.

There’s nothing much left for you to do after the installation. As long as the blanket is securely in place and your water heater is working as expected, you can enjoy your hot water at a lower cost.

Where to buy?

Water heater blankets are relatively common now, so you can easily buy them from your local Lowe’s, Home Depot, and most hardware stores. Another option is if you are particular about the brand, you can directly visit the brand’s website and order it from there if they don’t have a local retail store near your area.

A convenient option is for you to check the various available water heater blankets on Amazon and take your pick from there. It will be a more convenient option as you don’t need to go out and just wait for your parcel to be delivered. With only 20 bucks — more or less — you can easily purchase a water heater insulator enough to keep your 60-gallon tank warm.

Conclusion

If you want to save on energy and improve your water heater’s efficiency, check out the best water heater blanket. It will provide insulation to the water heater and reduce energy loss. This blanket can also help in preventing the over-straining of your heater, especially in the winter months. Use this guide for your reference and buy a water heater blanket today!

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