How often has it happened that when we buy a water storage tank, the liquid inside becomes too hot or too cold depending on the season. The best way to deal with this is to wrap the water tank with some sort of insulator. Many water tanks now come with UV stabilized properties specifically built for outdoor placement, however they are still unable to reflect all the rays of sunshine. The science behind why we should insulate is important.

Why is insulating a water tank beneficial?

We know that water tank insulation helps prevent damage caused by direct exposure of the sun’s rays to the tank as well as reflecting those rays. This protects the tank and its contents.

What kinds of insulation are available?

Water tank insulation comes in a variety of types based on your needs. For example, one insulator is the closed-cell foam which uses aluminum or fiberglass. In the case of a water tank, the aluminum acts as the insulator and is most often used for insulating a water tank.

What is R-value?

The insulating sheets have an R-Value which is the measure of an insulation sample’s ability to reduce heat flow and indicates how well the tank material resists that heat flow. The higher the R-value, the better. Most modern tanks do not need extra insulation but if you are wondering if you should additionally wrap your tank, check the R-value. Most insulators can add up to R-5 to the tank.

What about trapped air space?

The air space between the insulating sheet and the water tank can also increase R-value so the use of spacers utilizes the trapped air space more efficiently. In addition, this airspace allows for the emissive properties of the material to work by retaining fluid from evaporation or by freezing. Regular water tanks insulators can block up to 95% of radiant heat.

How can I insulate my water tank?

Installing water tanks can be aggravating, especially if it is your first time. It is important to do take following steps to make your DIY project easy and correctly done.

Required: Insulating sheet, insulating tape, utility knife

Method (small water tank)

1. Clean the water tank on the outside so that no dirt is present.
2. Cut insulation sheets into horizontal and vertical patterns according to the size of the water tank
3. Place horizontal sheets first, covering the water tank and then repeat with vertical sheets.
4. Use a utility knife to cut the sheet around drains, pipes, or lids. Remove the blanket and cut out the spaces to expose the parts and be easily accessible Use insulating tape to seal the edges.
5. Tie the whole system together with a ribbon or any thin rope. Make sure that they are not too tight.
6. Finally, check the sheet for even coverage and make sure all ends are tucked in.

Happy insulating!