What can be used to save fuel and energy in piping systems?

Using insulation in piping systems is a highly effective method for saving fuel and energy. Insulation helps to minimize heat loss or gain in hot or cold piping systems. For hot water, this means that less energy is required to maintain the desired temperature, as the heat is retained within the pipes longer. In contrast, for cold water systems, insulation prevents heat from entering the pipes, which reduces the burden on cooling systems to maintain low temperatures.

Proper insulation reduces the overall energy consumption associated with heating and cooling fluids in the pipes, leading to significant cost efficiency and energy savings. This practice not only contributes to a reduction in operating expenses but also enhances the efficiency of the system, leading to fewer emissions and a reduced environmental footprint.

The other choices, such as increasing the diameter of pipes, reducing pipe length, or adding more pumps, do not directly correlate with energy savings as effectively as insulation. For instance, increased pipe diameter might lead to lower friction losses in some scenarios but does not inherently save energy like insulation does. Similarly, reducing pipe length can have minor benefits but may not address heat loss issues, while adding pumps usually increases energy consumption rather than saves it.