Adding insulation to water heater

mandolindave · 09-18-2009, 09:19 PM

My gal bought a used motor home. The PO said the hot water tank had a leak. I think the leak was where I could fit my hand in the side of the tank ! Ya think? Anyway I am replacing the tank, not the whole heater. My friend had a spare.
I will have to remove the insulation, and I was wondering ( while I am at it ) has anyone added more insulation to their water heater. They are often under a bed, like this one. In the winter I might not want any insulation , and in the summer, a whole lot. Is this foolish thinking, crazy compulive behavior, ignorant ramblings, overly idiotic frugalness, typical Airstream overkill, conscientious conservitism, or good ole American ingenuity?

P.S. any hints or warnings concerning the tank replacement would be appreciated Dave

ROBERTSUNRUS · 09-18-2009, 10:51 PM

Hi, way too much thought process going on there. Mine has the styrofoam insulation and as far as I'm concerned, it is for keeping the heat in the tank longer; And mine stays hot for quite a long time.

centennialman · 09-19-2009, 08:10 AM

My water heater is under the closet in the bathroom. The heater does have the styrofoam cover around and over it. I added an additional two inches of insulation on top of the heater, mostly to minimize sound.

mandolindave · 09-19-2009, 01:25 PM

Can I get a tie breaker?

**Kevin245** · 09-19-2009, 04:50 PM

No hints here, but addling extra insulation is routinely done in residential applications. I don't know of any reason it would not work in your MoHo. I'd pick up a wrap kit from Lowes, HD, or other. Just make sure the new insulation is securely attached and does not interfere with the plumbing (LPG and Water) and the burner venting.

Best of luck,

Kevin