Heat tape can be a crucial solution in areas with low temperatures, where water pipes and hoses are exposed to cold weather and freezing conditions. When exposed pipes freeze, the expansion of water can cause them to rupture, potentially resulting in a significant amount of water damage to your home.
Pipe insulation is a necessary step to prevent freezing in most cases. However, during prolonged cold periods or extremely low temperatures, insulation alone may not be enough to protect the pipes. In these cases, heat tape for pipes, either self-regulating or thermostat-controlled, can provide the extra warmth needed to keep pipes from freezing and bursting.
Self-regulating heat tapes
Self-regulating heat tape offers flexibility in terms of custom fit and purchasing options. It can be cut to the desired length or bought in pre-set lengths in kit form. The self-regulating feature allows the heat output to automatically adapt to the temperature changes around it, only producing heat when the temperature drops below freezing and reducing output as the temperature rises. This eliminates the need for manual temperature control.
This type of heat tape can be purchased in hardware and home improvement stores, either by the roll or by the foot. Keep in mind that in addition to the heat tape, you will need a connection kit that includes an end plug, as well as access to an electrical outlet. Kit forms of heat tape generally come with the plug already attached.
Thermostat-controlled heat tapes
Another option for heat tape is the thermostat-controlled variety, which shares many similarities with self-regulating heat tape but has the added feature of being regulated by a separate thermostat. This type of heat tape requires an additional connection kit that includes a thermostat to control the temperature.
Like self-regulating heat tape, thermostat-controlled heat tape can be purchased by the foot or roll, making it easy to customize to your specific needs. You can cut it to any size and add plugs to the ends, or you can opt for a kit form that comes in various lengths and includes the plugs and thermostat.
Heated water hoses
An alternative to heat tape is a heated water hose, which is useful for individuals living in areas where frost is infrequent and irrigation or filling livestock drinking tanks is necessary during the winter. These hoses are available in various lengths, and they have electrical conducting wires built into the rubber or vinyl walls.
When plugged in, an electrical current runs through the wires and heats the hose, providing warmth to the water flowing through it. The heated hoses also have an automatic shut off feature in warmer weather to conserve electricity and prevent overheating.
How to install heat tape
The method to install heat tape is generally a straightforward process, but it may be more complex depending on the size of the project and the layout of the area. If you have a large installation area or one with many tricky angles, it might be best to hire a professional to do the job.
If you decide to install the heat tape yourself, be sure to read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Depending on the type of heat tape, it may be attached to the underside of the pipe with electrical tape or zip ties, wrapped around the pipe in a spiral, or installed in a combination of both methods. Overlapping the tape should be avoided unless it is specifically allowed by the manufacturer.
Insulating the pipes after installing the heat tape can be beneficial for increasing the efficiency of the heat tape, but only do so if the manufacturer recommends it. Fiberglass is an ideal insulation material, as it is non-flammable. However, always consult the manufacturer’s recommendations for the preferred insulation material.
Another important point to consider during installation is the placement of the thermostat. It should be located in the coldest area and directly on the water pipe, to ensure accurate temperature readings.
Heat tape buying tips
When buying heat tape, it’s important to keep a few things in mind to ensure you get the best product for your project:
- Opt for a heat tape kit: If this is your first time installing heat tape, a kit might be a better choice as it comes with pre-attached plugs for a proper connection and with different length options ranging from 3 feet to 100 feet.
- Check the product specifications: Before buying, be sure to read the package to confirm that the heat tape is suitable for your application, it will work with either plastic or metal pipes. Also, check for the features that you want like power indicator lights or built-in thermostats.
- Measure before making a purchase: Measure the pipes before making the purchase, to ensure you get the right amount of tape needed. Keep in mind that if you plan to wrap the tape around the pipe, the length of the tape should be longer than the pipe.
Heat tape for mobile homes
For older mobile and manufactured homeowners, selecting the right heat tape requires extra care. There are two main factors to consider: the material of the water lines and the electrical system used in the home.
Older mobile homes may have water feed lines that are too thin to withstand heat tape temperatures, so it’s important to check the water line material and choose a heat tape that is approved for that specific material. Additionally, mobile homeowners should use shielded heat tape that is rated for their home’s electrical specifications.
When shopping for heat tape, keep in mind that lightweight, thermostatically-controlled heat tapes are not suitable for older manufactured homes. Only heat tapes that are UL listed for use in manufactured homes should be used. Additionally, it’s important to check that the heat tape and insulation products are approved for your particular water line material, whether it’s plastic-like (such as PEX or PVC).
Another important factor to consider is the presence of aluminum wiring in older mobile homes. While aluminum wiring hasn’t been used in mobile homes for decades, some homes may still have it.
Aluminum wiring connectors and the wiring itself are susceptible to corrosion, which can cause loose connections and increase the risk of electrical hazards. Therefore, it’s recommended that all older mobile homes have their aluminum wiring replaced as soon as possible.
Is heat tape safe?
Self-regulating heat tapes typically do not produce enough heat to thaw frozen pipes. Instead, they should be installed before the first freeze to prevent pipes from freezing in the first place. These heat tapes are designed to turn on when temperatures drop below a certain threshold, usually around 40-38 degrees Fahrenheit.
However, it is important to note that even modern, UL-certified heat tapes can pose a risk of fire, resulting in thousands of home fires, injuries, and deaths each year. To prevent these accidents, it’s essential to follow the following safety precautions:
- Use an extension cord that is rated for outdoor use if you need to power your heat tape with one.
- Only purchase UL-certified heat tapes.
- Make sure the heat tape has a grounding or three-prong plug, especially in older mobile homes with metal chassis and grounding.
- Use a quick-tripping ground-fault circuit-interrupter (GFCI) outlet.
- Do not install heat tapes inside walls, floors, or ceilings. They should only be used outside.
- Apply heat tapes directly on the pipe that needs to be protected from freezing, and do not install heat tape around pipe insulation.
- Do not cover heat tapes with insulation, even if the tape manufacturer permits it. If insulation is necessary, use a non-flammable material, such as fiberglass, but not foam or vinyl insulation.
- Do not wrap heat tape over itself or use metal to secure it to the pipe, even if the manufacturer allows it.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the thermostat’s location and make sure it’s in direct contact with the pipe.
- Inspect all heat tapes and electrical connections before winter and at least monthly during the winter. Replace heat tape if it shows any signs of damage, such as cuts, cracks, charring, animal chew marks, bare wires or a loose or missing end. If it looks suspicious in any way, it should be replaced or removed.
By following these suggestions, you can use heat tape safely to help prevent frozen pipes and keep your home warm during cold weather. Remember that even if the heat tape is UL-certified, improper installation or usage can still lead to potential fire hazards, so it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety recommendations closely.
How much power does heat tape use?
A typical heat tape uses either 2 or 7 watts per foot to prevent water lines from freezing down to extremely low temperatures, such as -50 degrees Fahrenheit. For example, a 6-foot long heat tape that uses 5 watts per foot will consume 30 watts of electricity to heat the pipe. Depending on the location and electricity rates, this could cost around $20 for a 4-month period, assuming current rates in Fairbanks, Alaska.
Frequently asked questions
Will heat tape prevent pipes from freezing?
While there is no guarantee that any method will completely prevent pipes from freezing, heat tape is effective in reducing the likelihood of freezing and bursting pipes. The heat tape will warm the water in the pipes as the temperature drops, helping to prevent it from freezing.
How long will heat tape last on pipes?
Heat tape generally lasts for a few years, after which its effectiveness may decrease, particularly if it has not been well-protected from the elements. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions to determine when the heat tape should be replaced.
Can heat tape thaw frozen pipes?
While frozen pipes can thaw naturally, allowing frozen water to sit in them increases the risk of burst pipes. Heat tape can be used to speed up the thawing process by rising the pipe temperature and get the water flowing again.
Is heat tape a fire hazard?
No, as long as the heat tape installation has been done properly. However, improper installation of electrical heating cable can cause fires and electric shock.
