more pipe insulation

pippi Z

I'm a homeowner/doityourselfer and I started measuring the pipe in my basement for insulating a double pipe steam system today, It is actually an old industrial building, so it is quite large with a lot of pipe running all around the basement before it makes it's way upstairs. I had been doing a little research on the internet and read some suggestion to insulate the return lines. This didn't make much sense to me. Also, I feel pretty ignorant of what type of insulation to use. I don't have a lot of money - however I know this will save me in the long run- so I know it is an investment. Our main is a 4 inch pipe - do I need to go through an industrial supply place? Any info on the pros and cons of different types of insulation would be much appreciated.

also...I've noticed that we have some pipes in the basement running maybe 10 ft before they are capped and going nowhere. Is it possible to cap them off sooner closer to the main? Some of these pipes have maybe 3 joints before they are capped.
thanks
Pippi in Providence

Matt_21

pippi

you should use 1.5 inch fiberglass insulation to insulate the piping. you should be able to buy it from packings & insulation in providence. they are in the phone book.

Brad White_9

Goes by pipe size but

I would agree with you Matt that 1.5 inch does most of what 2 inch would do. But in the sizes Pippi has (4 inch IPS), model energy codes including RI's, require 2 inch for what it is worth.

But when you see enough half-inch H.Depot' stuff, you are grateful for anything over an inch.