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        How to Insulate Pipes

        Insulating cold-water pipes will prevent them from dripping condensation, and insulating hot-water pipes will prevent costly heat loss and save on energy bills.

        More in Plumbing

        insulating water pipes saves money

        Step 1: Watch an Overview Video

        Step 2: Clean Pipes and Select Insulation

        Begin by removing any dirt or grease from the pipes with a rag and mild cleanser. Allow the pipes to dry thoroughly before installing the insulation.

        Choose the insulation, but know that foil or fiberglass insulation can be wrapped around the pipe with a 1/2" overlap (pictured). Secure each end of the insulation with duct tape.

        foil or fiberglass insulation wrapped around pipe

        Step 3: Completely Cover the Pipe

        Be sure to cover the entire pipe when wrapping around corners and bends and wrap with duct tape. When working with fiberglass insulation, wrap the fiberglass in plastic to keep the pipes from dripping condensation (pictured).

        wrapping fiberglass with plastic stops the drips

        Step 4: Consider Tubular-Sleeve Insulation

        You can choose tubular-sleeve insulation as well. It comes in a variety of sizes and is the easiest to install. Simply cut the sleeve to length and wrap it around the pipe. If more than one sleeve is needed to cover a longer pipe, be sure to duct tape the seam where the pipes meet.

        Tubular sleeve insulation

        Step 5: Take Special Steps Around Corners

        When insulating around corners or T-joints, cut slits or make miter angles where necessary, and secure these areas with duct tape.

        corners and t joints require slits in insulation

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