It is officially summer, and we all know what that means: hot, humid weather with the AC on high to beat the heat. Luckily, Armacell’s pipe insulation minimizes inefficiencies of heat gain and loss to obtain all the benefits of controlled temperatures and low energy bills during warm summer months. As water travels along plumbing lines without insulation, hot water tends to lose heat while cold water gains heat. Introducing pipe insulation greatly diminishes inefficiencies and gains the benefits of lower energy bills and controlled temperatures.

When the surfaces of plumbing pipes are cooler than the air surrounding them, condensation forms. Over time this condensation can slowly corrode pipes and fittings leading to a system failure. Condensation is a common concern for pipes, especially when cold-water lines encounter warm, humid air. Installing pipe insulation controls condensation, heat gain or heat loss, eliminates greater possibilities for corrosion under insulation (CUI) and prevents growth of mold and mildew.

Cost vs. Benefit

Installing pipe insulation offers many key benefits that could eliminate the future costs of mechanical failure. Investing in the right product choice now, could mean, energy savings, fewer maintenance and system costs later. There are several types of pipe insulation materials capable of insulating to different temperature ranges. Some material types are better suited toward one purpose than another, so insulation materials are commonly rated by their performance in thermal conductivity, water vapor resistance, thickness, and density. Some of the main types of insulation options include closed-cell elastomeric foam, closed-cell polyethylene foam, spray foam insulation, mineral wool, fiberglass, cellular glass, aerogel and more.

Armacell’s closed-cell rubber foam and polyethylene foam products offer superior, long-lasting protection due to their very low permeability values and resistance to condensation. Their structures are also inherently durable and less vulnerable to punctures and tears that can render other forms of insulation, specifically open cell materials, ineffective which means better product lifetime efficiency. Selecting closed-cell foam insulation is one valuable investment and sure way to prevent moisture and heat transfer on piping systems.