What type of insulation is commonly used for hot water pipes?

Foam rubber insulation is widely recognized for its effectiveness in insulating hot water pipes. This type of insulation provides excellent thermal resistance, helping to minimize heat loss as water travels through the pipes. This is particularly important for maintaining the temperature of hot water, which ultimately contributes to energy efficiency and reducing the costs associated with heating water.

Foam rubber insulation is also flexible and easy to install, allowing it to fit tightly around various pipe sizes and shapes, ensuring maximum coverage. Additionally, it has good resistance to moisture, which is important in preventing mold and mildew growth around plumbing systems where condensation might occur.

Other insulation types, while serving different functions, may not offer the same degree of thermal efficiency or ease of installation as foam rubber insulation, making it the preferred choice for hot water pipes in many plumbing applications.