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Why does nobody talk about using pool noodles for pipe insulation?
Had a frozen pipe scare last January in my basement. The foam insulation at the hardware store was gonna cost me like $60 for the whole run. Then my neighbor mentioned pool noodles from the dollar store. 3 bucks for a pack of 2, slit them down the side with a utility knife, and they fit perfect on the 3/4 inch copper. Been through two winters now with no issues. Has anyone else found random cheap stuff that works better than the "proper" supplies?
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gibson.elizabeth23d ago
Compare the R-value of a pool noodle to real pipe insulation and tell me the difference.
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reesemiller23d ago
Honestly, that comparison doesn't really work the way people think. A pool noodle is just foam with a big air hole in the middle, which means it traps some heat but not nearly as well as proper pipe insulation. Real pipe insulation has a much higher R-value per inch, usually around R-3 to R-4 for standard foam stuff, while a pool noodle is maybe R-1 if you're lucky. The biggest issue is that pool noodles aren't closed cell foam, so they soak up moisture over time and lose any insulating power they had. Ngl, I've seen people try this in a pinch for temporary stuff, but for winterizing pipes it's not even close to enough. If you're serious about keeping pipes from freezing, just spend the few bucks on actual insulation.
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keithbennett22d ago
Those dollar store noodles have held up fine in my crawlspace for two winters now with no freezing problems.
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