This product is made from unique, patented ¼ inch reflective foil that claims to reflect 99% of the heat.
The average return of investment takes 6-12 months. The ROI stems from the increase in energy efficiency.
It has a Class A fire rating, and it works with both gas and electric water heaters. This water heater blanket can even cover up to an 80-gallon tank and has an R8 R-value.
The product comes in two pieces- one will go on top and one will go on the bottom. It also comes with tape and a utility knife. Reviews also point to easy install!
Our Top Water Heater Blanket Picks
Are you in a hurry, and simply want to cut to the chase on your best options? Check out our top 3 water heater blanket reviews below! Then, keep reading to discover more about why we chose them for you.
Water heaters cost a significant amount to operate at up to 20% of your utility bill. For this reason, most people are interested in this low-cost and easy fix to reduce utility costs.
When your water heater is hot to the touch and causing high utility bills, one solution is additional insulation. That’s when a water heater blanket can be useful.
Ideally, the water heater blanket will lower the utility bills and keep your water hotter for a longer amount of time. Here are the 5 best water heater blankets on the market and tips on how to determine which one is best for you.
What Is a Water Heater Blanket?
A water heater blanket is an insulated covering that covers the tank of your water heater. People use water heater blankets to retain heat in the water heater tank, keeping it warm. This means a lower utility bill, and it increases how eco-friendly your home is.
This goes without saying, but this doesn’t apply to tankless water heaters. You only need a water heater blanket for water heaters with tanks.
They are most effective when the water heater is in a colder area that doesn’t get heat, or if it’s an older unit that lacks manufacturer insulation. Also, water heater blankets can also be called water heater jackets, insulation blankets, and water heater covers.
What Are The Different Types of Water Heater Blankets?
There are a number of different water heater blankets out there. The biggest differences in water heater blankets are the material used. You can choose between foam, bubble wrap, or reflective water heater blankets. The cover can come in one large piece or multiple pieces.
How Does a Water Heater Blanket Work?
The blanket works differently based on the type of material used. Fiberglass foam and bubble wrap contain the heat and reflective foil reflects the heat back to the water heater.
In all cases, the blanket is used to insulate the water heater. This means that the heat will remain in the water heater instead of escaping. This will keep the standing water in the tank at a warmer temperature until it is needed. They work well and are often recommended.
Water blankets are generally rated with an “R-Value”. The higher the R-value, the more insulation is applied to the water heater.
You will be responsible for attaching the watch heater blanket to the water heater. If the water heater blanket comes in large pieces, you may need to cut it down to size or make alterations to access controls on your water heater.
You should also allow adequate airflow around the piping when you install the product by cutting appropriate holes in the blanket. Once the blanket is cut, you will attach it with tape. Be careful not to get fiberglass onto your skin if the product has fiberglass in it.
What Do You Look For In The Best Water Heater Blanket?
First and foremost, you want to look for a water heater blanket that works. Read reviews and use a Sense Energy Monitor to pick a blanket that works. A Sense Energy Monitor is a device that will track your utility usage. If your new water heater blanket is working, the numbers will tell you.
You also want to pick a blanket that is easy to install. Read reviews to learn what other people have to say about how easy the cover is to install. It may be best to recruit one other person to help you.
What is the Best Water Heater Blanket? Our Reviews of the Top 3
This product is made from unique, patented ¼ inch reflective foil that claims to reflect 99% of the heat.
The average return of investment takes 6-12 months. The ROI stems from the increase in energy efficiency.
It has a Class A fire rating, and it works with both gas and electric water heaters. This water heater blanket can even cover up to an 80-gallon tank and has an R8 R-value.
The product comes in two pieces- one will go on top and one will go on the bottom. It also comes with tape and a utility knife. Reviews also point to easy install!
Pros
Made in the USA
Easy to install
Covers average & large tanks
Cons
Some customers needed extra tape, or preferred their own.
This polyethylene foam and the aluminum water heater blanket create space in-between the water heater and the tank. This design helps produce better heat conservation.
This space fills with the hot air, and the water heater absorbs it again before the air reaches the blanket.
It fits all 60 lb. tanks and smaller, and it works with both gas and electric water heaters.
It is 5 millimeters in thickness. This product claims to reduce heat loss up to 40% and improve efficiency for 95% of water heaters with an Energy Star certification and a 7.1 R-value.
This water heater blanket is 3” thick and 7 lbs., making it one of the most heavy-duty on the list.
It has an R-factor of 10, which is one of the highest on the list, too. It can work with gas, electric, and oil water heaters up to 60 gallons.
A warranty can be requested through Amazon customer service. Two pieces are connected together to create one large piece, which could lead to slight inconsistencies during installation.
Pros
Made in USA
R-10 r-value
Warranty available via Amazon
Cons
Heavy (assistance during install)
Coating Tears Easily
Fiberglass (wear gloves!)
Final Thoughts on Choosing Best Water Heater Blanket
Any of these water heater blankets should create an improvement in reducing heat loss and lowering your utility bill. Of course, you want to find a product that will fit your tank and measure before you order.
You also want your water heater blanket to be easy to install, and fits your DIY experience level. Most customers report it is easiest to have a second person available to assist during installation. This is mainly due to the need to measure, hold, and tape.
What can you expect after installing an insulation jacket on your hot water heater? You should notice a subtle change in the first month or two as long the blanket was installed properly.
If your water heater is in the garage or attic, you will notice the savings more in the Winter months of the year.
Want even greater efficiency? Consider a water heater timer switch to regulate when hot water is actually produced. You can save money by not heating the water while at work or away on vacation.
Even small changes like these can add up over time, and make up for the purchase in saved energy costs. Most feel this decision is a no-brainer!
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About Plumbing Navigator
We write about "all things plumbing," helping you navigate common questions, repairs, and the best plumbing products on the market.
About Plumbing Navigator
We write about “all things plumbing,” helping you navigate common questions, repairs, and the best plumbing products on the market.
