Inspect and repair
In many cases the insulation is not promptly and properly
maintained, simply because it is not a risk or cost effective.
Industry has been estimating for years that between 10% and 30%
of all exposed insulation becomes damaged or lost within one to
three years of installation.
Over time, and depending on the operating environment and
exposure to the elements, that percentage is likely to be
higher.
The effect of damage
The effect of damage, or the failure to reinstall insulation
after maintenance of e.g. a valve, is substantial. In many cases
the reduction in heat loss is up to 40% less than expected when the
insulation is damaged. The costs of repairing the insulation are
usually negligible compared to the annual savings.
Damaged cladding or insulation will not only result in increased
heat losses but it often also enables water to penetrate into the
insulation which can cause corrosion. Costs due to corrosion and
additional, unexpected energy losses are substantial. The costs of
inspection and repair are in all cases negligible compared with the
potential savings.