Which Hose Size Should You Use For Blown-In Cellulose?
From fiberglass to polyurethane - there’s a lot you can use as an insulation material. But cellulose continues to be the undisputed choice due to its eco-friendliness and ability to fill all gaps and crevices in an effective manner. Here’s the catch though - despite its high R-value, working with cellulose can be a challenge unless you get the hose size just right.
Using the appropriate hose with your insulation blowing machine can prevent issues such as clogs and poor material flow, which are bound to arise if the diameter of your hose is all wrong. Of course, that involves choosing the right machine as well, but the hose’s role is critical and undeniable.
So allow us to tell you all about the common hose sizes available for blow-in cellulose as well as when to use each so you can gain maximum efficiency on the job.
The Importance Of Hose Size In Cellulose Blowing
Treating your hose as just a system of delivery would be unfair because the diameter of these long pipes can have a real impact on the following:
- The velocity of airflow
- The delivery rate of insulation material (cellulose in this case)
- The risk of issues such as clogging and bridging
- The reach of the hose and its overall flexibility
You can argue that blown-in cellulose is lightweight, so it should be easy to fill into walls irrespective of hose size, but it is also dense. So to manage its density, you need to balance air volume and pressure. This allows the cellulose from your machine to flow into the cavity without disruptions. Use a small hose and you’ll end up choking the material, use a large one and you would end up losing pressure and control.
Commonly Used Hose Sizes For Blown-In Cellulose & Their Use Cases
There are three sizes that are most often used for cellulose blowing in conjunction with a high-quality insulation blowing machine. Each size has its own specialty too. Let us show you.
2-Inch Diameter Hose - Made For Short Runs
If you’re working a small insulation blowing job or have to blow insulation into a tight space, the 2-inch hose is your best bet. Its narrow size allows it to access crawlspaces and wall cavities with ease. It also offers great control while being light and easy to handle. However, if you use it for long runs or heavy-duty jobs, you must brace yourself for restricted flow. It’s inevitable. That’s why we recommend using it for detailed work as opposed to filling up large attics.
2.5-inch Diameter Hose - Residential Project Champ
Because most residential insulation blowing jobs require medium-range hose runs, the 2.5-inch hose works best. Not only does it have a very manageable size for longer use, but it also offers a balanced flow rate so the cellulose can steadily move into the cavity without any danger of clogging. Plus, a 2.5-inch hose is generally compatible with and easy to connect to the outlets and reducers of most machines. This hose size is actually a favorite among contractors due to its excellent airflow and flexibility.
3-Inch Diameter Hose - Indispensable For Long Runs
Any high-volume insulation job requires a larger hose, and that’s where the 3-inch diameter hose comes in. Using this one allows for higher material throughput. Despite the long distances it covers, you don’t have to worry about clogs due to its diameter. It offers ample space for cellulose to flow without clogging. The only downside is that it’s heavy and can be hard to maneuver. Still, if you have a large retrofit or an open attic project on your hands, you can’t ask for better than this hose size.
Bonus: Use The Right Accessories
There’s no need to state that you don’t need to worry about an insulation removal vacuum at this stage. What you need are a couple of other compatible accessories with your hose. For example, hose clamps ensure a secure connection, while connectors will help you increase the hose length without causing leaks. You can use reducers to ensure a smooth transition from your machine’s output to your hose’s input.
Conclusion
Do not underestimate hose size when blowing in cellulose into walls, attics, and crevices. Choosing the right hose size is key to ensuring optimized performance, waste reduction, and efficient work. If you need dependable hoses for your insulation installation projects, turn to Heat Seal Equipment Ltd. Contact us to get machines and accessories that guarantee a successful insulation blowing operation.
