SWS Detail: 7.0301.1 Pipe Insulation
Author: Burl Kinoshita
Uninsulated water heater lines
Properly sized and installed pipe insulation
Interior diameter of insulation sleeve must match exterior diameter of pipe.
Pipe insulation must have a minimum R-value of R-3.
Must have vapor retarder.
If installed outside needs to be UV-protected.
Pipe insulation must have a clearance of 6 inches away from single-wall vent pipe.
1 inch away from B-vent pipe to prevent a fire hazard.
Install continuous insulation on the first 6 feet of both hot and cold water lines from the water heater, including elbows, unions and other fittings.
Install prefabricated insulation fittings at elbows and tee's, or fabricate on site.
Fittings insulation must be tight and continuous.
Install pipe wrap clips or zip-ties as needed to secure all fittings and seams.
Lateral seams should be secured at a minimum of every 12 inches (manufactured adhesive seam seal is NOT sufficient).
Follow steps 1,2,4,& 5 to install continuous insulation on all water lines outside the conditioned space to prevent freezing.