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Return Insulation

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dlipter
dlipter Member Posts: 61
in Strictly Steam
My return is 1 1/2" OD copper pipe. The old insulation has crumbled. Is it important to insulate the return?

Would polyethylene pipe wrap be suitable?

It is rated to 180 deg F.

Comments

  • EBEBRATT-Ed
    EBEBRATT-Ed Member Posts: 18,135
    Much more important that the steam line are all insulated.

    Be careful with the return line insulation it could contain asbestos depending on it's age

    If you reinsulate the returns I would use 1" fiberglass pipe insulation.
  • dlipter
    dlipter Member Posts: 61
    Why fiberglass?
  • Boiler Talk
    Boiler Talk Member Posts: 143
    Well, if you have a steam system fiberglass is the only stuff that will last. Foam will degrade. 1 inch fiberglass will save energy more than 1/2 inch fiberglass too. 1 inch probably is optimum for the cost.
    1Matthias

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