Water Heaters - Is insulation jacket OK on gas water heater?
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markdiy
12-22-07, 08:18 AM
I'd like to save some $$ this winter, but a home inspector pointed out that it needs to be removed. Anyone have any thoughts?
mitch17
12-22-07, 09:14 AM
Newer water heaters have insulation inside and there's no need for a jacket.
Gunguy45
12-22-07, 09:26 AM
Agree with Mitch
Depending on the age and quality of the unit, the jacket won't be very cost effective. Had people come in and buy brand new w/h, top of the line, and wanted to buy a jacket to go over it. Convinced most it was a waste of money.
As to your question, never heard of a jacket not being allowed on a gas unit. As long as you keep it clear of the covers, gas valve, vents, etc.
Best in 2008
Depending on the age and quality of the unit, the jacket won't be very cost effective. Had people come in and buy brand new w/h, top of the line, and wanted to buy a jacket to go over it. Convinced most it was a waste of money.
As to your question, never heard of a jacket not being allowed on a gas unit. As long as you keep it clear of the covers, gas valve, vents, etc.
Best in 2008
Michael Thomas
12-22-07, 10:00 AM
I'd like to save some $$ this winter, but a home inspector pointed out that it needs to be removed. Anyone have any thoughts?
This is a somewhat controversial topic in the Home Inspection industry, especially as some local energy codes may require a blanket. However on the balance in my opinion he or she was likely correct:
1) Insulation blankets may void some manufacture’s warranties.
2) The listing of the appliance requires that the various labels be visible, people rarely bother to cut the blank to expose them. Again, this may void the warrantee.
3) If not properly installed the blanket may interfere with air flow to the draft hood, if it slips down it may obstruct movement of combustion air to the burners, it may also interfere with the operation and inspection of control and safety devices.
4) According to the manufacturers anyway, modern water heaters are dont need a blanket:
http://www.hotwater.com/bulletin/tcb1.htm
5) So a retro-fitted the blanket may actually decrease efficiency, see for example:
http://www.inspectorsjournal.com/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=3143
So if you do install a blanket, you want make sure it’s installed in compliance with the manufacture’s instructions, and inspect it regularly for slippage or damage.
This is a somewhat controversial topic in the Home Inspection industry, especially as some local energy codes may require a blanket. However on the balance in my opinion he or she was likely correct:
1) Insulation blankets may void some manufacture’s warranties.
2) The listing of the appliance requires that the various labels be visible, people rarely bother to cut the blank to expose them. Again, this may void the warrantee.
3) If not properly installed the blanket may interfere with air flow to the draft hood, if it slips down it may obstruct movement of combustion air to the burners, it may also interfere with the operation and inspection of control and safety devices.
4) According to the manufacturers anyway, modern water heaters are dont need a blanket:
http://www.hotwater.com/bulletin/tcb1.htm
5) So a retro-fitted the blanket may actually decrease efficiency, see for example:
http://www.inspectorsjournal.com/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=3143
So if you do install a blanket, you want make sure it’s installed in compliance with the manufacture’s instructions, and inspect it regularly for slippage or damage.
mbk3
12-22-07, 07:42 PM
Read the labels on the heater as stated previously. Many state DO NOT INSTALL BLANKET