How to Install a Constant Wattage Water Pipe Freeze Protection Cable Heat Tape
In this video, we show you how to install our constatnt wattage heat tape for pipes These plug-in heat tape cables will prevent your pipes from freezing in temperatures as low as -40°F/-40°C.
The heating cable is attached to the bottom of the pipe using electrical tape every six inches, starting at the switch/thermostat section. After the cable is attached, fiberglass insulation and waterproofing plastic wrap are used on top. Once these steps have been completed, you can plug the system into a GFCI protected outlet to use.
Hi, I'm Scott from WarmlyYours, and today we're going to be installing constant wattage pipe heating cable, also known as heat tape, onto a pipe. When you order this product, it will arrive in a bag containing several essential items. Inside, you'll find the installation manual, the heating product itself, electrical tape, marking tools for the pipe, waterproofing materials for insulation, a tape measure, insulation for the pipe, and a pair of scissors.
Before you begin the installation, it's important to ensure that the pipe is clean and free of any sharp edges that could potentially damage the heating cable. In our demonstration, we have a mock-up of a pipe to illustrate the installation process. The heating cable will rest on the bottom of the pipe, and it features a black heating section, a thermostat switch section, and a non-heating portion that serves as the electrical feed to the switch. This heating element will activate when the temperature drops below 37 degrees Fahrenheit and will remain on until it reaches 50 degrees, at which point it will shut off. This allows you to keep the cable attached to the pipe year-round if desired.
To start the installation, we will attach the thermostat switch first. Next, we will measure six inches down the pipe to determine where to place the tape that will hold the heating cable in place. The tape used for this purpose is standard electrical tape. As I tape the heating cable in position, it's crucial to ensure that it is in direct contact with the pipe, with the heating tape located at the bottom. After securing the initial section, we will continue measuring every six inches down the pipe to apply additional tape.
For optimal results, the heating product should be positioned at the bottom of the pipe. If you have extra cable, you can run it along the top, but never place the heating tape on both the top and bottom simultaneously. If you're installing the heating tape on a vertical pipe, ensure that the heating tape faces the cold side or the outside of the pipe.
Next, we will install the fiberglass insulation. You can use up to half an inch of fiberglass insulation, but it's important not to exceed this thickness. Additionally, make sure that the insulation covers the thermostat control at one end. When applying the insulation, spiral it in one direction, and then install the waterproof layer in the opposite direction to ensure proper coverage.
Now that the product is installed and covered with insulation and waterproofing, the final step is to plug it in. Be sure to connect it to a GFCI-protected outlet. At the end of the year, you have the option to unplug it if you choose. However, keep in mind that the thermostatically controlled switch will automatically turn off the system whenever the temperature rises above 37 degrees.
That's how you complete this installation. If you have any further questions, please feel free to call us at 800-875-5285 or visit us at WarmlyYours.com. Thanks for watching!
