Insulate to reduce heat losses

Insulation is critical. The energy losses could be reduced by 90% by the appropriate use of pipe insulation. In a case like this, the payback is very short—a matter of weeks. Often the paybacks from improvements come within weeks or a few months at a cost much lower than replacing faulty/ damaged insulation.

Missing insulation common

Reasons for inadequate or missing insulation are numerous. Sometimes in the rush to startup a new system, the final step of pipe insulation is never completed. Sometimes devices such as steam traps and valves are initially wrapped with insulation but during periodic inspection or maintenance, the insulation is removed and not replaced.

Often older insulation is damaged or saturated with water and loses its effectiveness. Sometimes asbestos insulation was removed as part of a plant-wide abatement program, but was never adequately replaced. With today’s higher energy costs and an increased emphasis on system efficiency, it’s time to correct these problems.