What is the difference between Self-Regulating and Constant Wattage Cabling?

As the names imply, constant wattage cable uses fixed wattage output per linear foot and does not automatically adjust in response to temperature changes. Self-regulating cable is manufactured with a resistance matrix placed between its 2 buss wires that varies the ohms resistance per linear foot to automatically adjust in response to temperature changes. Learn more about this in our blog Self-Regulating vs. Constant Wattage Heating Cables .

CLT28-JT | Support | WarmlyYours Canada

Support Questions

Showing 10 of 11 questions

Do radiant heating products have polarity?

Electric-resistance heating cables and systems have no polarity. This includes all current WarmlyYours heating elements.

14 people found this helpful Was this helpful? Yes No

Can heat tape start a fire?

Heat tape is electrical equipment: improper installation, damaged cable, or misuse can cause fire or electric shock. Select cable approved for your pipe and location, follow its layout and insulation requirements, provide the specified electrical protection, and inspect it before each cold season. Do not use damaged equipment or overlap cable unless the exact product instructions permit it.

6 people found this helpful Was this helpful? Yes No

Can Pipe Freeze Protection be used indoors and outdoors?

Yes, it can be used for both application types to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting during cold weather.

6 people found this helpful Was this helpful? Yes No

What is heat trace?

Heat trace, heat tape, or heating cable for pipes is typically an electric heating cable that can be attached to the pipe which helps keep non-flowing water pipes in poorly insulated perimeter walls flowing despite harsh winter temperatures.

4 people found this helpful Was this helpful? Yes No

How long does it take for pipes to unfreeze if heat tape is installed?

Pipe heat tape is intended for freeze prevention, not as a guaranteed way to thaw an already frozen pipe. A frozen pipe may be damaged. Have the plumbing assessed and thawed safely by a qualified professional; never use an open flame. Before future cold weather, verify cable selection, thermostat placement, insulation, and electrical protection.

3 people found this helpful Was this helpful? Yes No

How does a heat tape for pipes work?

By attaching a heating cable to the exterior of a pipe, it will transfer the heat to the pipe to prevent frozen pipes. And with the use of pipe insulation the heat will be evenly spread and won't dissipate as quickly.

3 people found this helpful Was this helpful? Yes No

How warm does heat tape for pipes get?

Cable temperature depends on the product, surrounding conditions, installation, and controls. Do not assume a universal surface-temperature range. Follow the exact cable and pipe manufacturers’ limits, particularly for plastic pipe, and use the specified insulation and thermostat placement.

3 people found this helpful Was this helpful? Yes No

Does heat tape use a lot of electricity?

Pipe heat tape electricity use depends on cable length, power output, run time, and controls. For a fixed-output cable, watts = length in feet × W/ft. A 30-foot, 7 W/ft kit draws 210 watts while energized; eight energized hours uses 1.68 kWh. Multiply by your local rate for cost. Thermostat duty cycle and self-regulating output change actual consumption.

1 person found this helpful Was this helpful? Yes No

Can I use an extension cord to connect pipe heat / heat trace cable?

WarmlyYours does not recommend using an extension cord for permanent installations. Pipe heat should always be plugged directly into a receptacle or hardwired to the circuit that is powering it.

Was this helpful? Yes No