Heat tape, also called heat cable, is an electric cable that wraps around or runs along a pipe to keep it warm and help prevent freezing. It can be safe and useful when you choose a product made for pipes and install it exactly as the maker directs, but old, damaged, or misused heat tape can cause fires.
Types of Heat Cable
- Self-regulating cable: adjusts its heat output based on the temperature, which lowers the risk of overheating.
- Constant-wattage cable: puts out the same heat all the time and often uses a thermostat. Many types must not overlap or touch themselves.
Always check that the product is listed by a recognized testing lab and is rated for the pipe material you have, especially plastic pipes.
Where It Can Help
Heat cable is often used on pipes in crawl spaces, unheated garages, and other spots where insulation alone is not enough. It is usually covered with insulation after installation to hold in the heat.
Safety Concerns
Older heat tapes, frayed cables, and products wrapped or overlapped against the instructions have been linked to fires. Plug cables into a properly grounded outlet, ideally one with ground-fault protection. Inspect the cable each fall before cold weather starts, and make sure it is not buried under stored items. Replace it if the insulation is cracked or damaged.
Alternatives to Consider
Before relying on heat cable, consider whether the pipe can be insulated better, the space sealed against drafts, or the line rerouted through a warmer area. These options do not use electricity and have no fire risk.
If you are unsure about the wiring or product, have a professional handle it.
If a pipe in a cold space has already broken, fixing the frozen line first comes before any heat cable work. To decide how best to protect that pipe, you can get a plumber’s advice on the space by calling (833) 603-1840.