I Tested And Reviewed 9 Best Heat Tape For Water Pipes (2023)

I recently purchased this water pipe heater cord and I must say, it is one of the best ones I have come across. The quality of the product is excellent and it even comes with tape and zip ties for easy installation. I plan on using it to prevent my RV black and gray water waste valves from freezing up during winter.

One thing that caught my attention is that the instructions allow for both spiral and flat wrapping of the tape on the pipes. This is different from other heat tapes I have used before, which only recommended flat wrapping. Additionally, this heat tape does not mention the need for adding pipe insulation, unlike other brands.

While the product claims to be waterproof, I did notice that the area where the wire goes into the thermostat is not sealed. Although it is likely sealed inside the fitting, it does raise some concerns. Unfortunately, there is no way to verify this without putting it in a tub of water. Another concern is the thermostat itself. The instructions and video do not specify whether the metal button on top of the thermostat should be laid against the pipe or simply taped flat. The metal button protrudes quite a bit, making it difficult to lay flat on the pipe. I will have to figure out the best method during the colder months.

I purchased two of these pipe heating wraps in different lengths to prevent my outside potable water hoses from freezing. One hose connects from an outside hose bib on my house to an underground PEX run, while the other hose connects the PEX to a travel trailer city water inlet. Since the travel trailer is occasionally used in winter, I wanted to ensure that the water keeps flowing. Although Fayetteville, NC doesn't experience extreme cold, there are times when the temperature remains below freezing for several days.

To secure these wraps to my hoses, I used a specialized heating cable application tape. Typically, I believe that insulating and heating the space where pipes are located is the best way to prevent freezing. However, there have been instances where my basement temperature has dropped below freezing, causing potential pipe damage. Therefore, I consider this heated pipe wrap as a backup solution to avoid broken pipes.

One of the advantages of this tape is that it doesn't stay on all the time. It only turns on when the air temperature nears freezing in the vicinity of the pipes, thanks to its built-in thermostat. However, one minor drawback is that the wrap is not flat like most pipe wraps. Since it is made of round wire, some energy may be lost and not fully transferred to the tape. Nevertheless, this is a minor issue considering the overall effectiveness of the product. The wrap itself is a nice long piece, which is beneficial for covering a significant length of pipe.

During installation, it is crucial to secure the plug end of the wrap where it is needed and then tightly wrap it around the pipe. The wrap must be installed tightly against the pipe to ensure efficient warming of the water line. I recommend using electrical tape every few feet to keep the wrap in place.

I want to clarify that I received this item as a free sample with the understanding that I would provide an unbiased, honest, and fair review based solely on my own opinions.

In addition to preventing water hose freezing, I also utilized this heating wrap to address a freezing issue in our outside shed, where we have a washer connected via a garden hose. Previously, the washer would freeze when the temperature dropped below 30°F. To solve this problem, I used all-weather duct tape and wrapped the heat wire around a new 15-foot garden hose. The result was great; now only the drain hose freezes. I plan on using the same method to prevent freezing in the drain hose as well.

I conducted extensive research on heat tracer cables and explored various companies that manufacture these products before deciding to purchase from Radiant Solutions. One crucial factor that influenced my choice was the ability to speak with a knowledgeable representative from the company who could address my technical inquiries before making a purchase. This level of customer support instilled a sense of trust in their product.

As heat tracer cables are not easily evaluated for efficacy, due to the need to observe their performance in extremely cold outdoor conditions over an entire winter, I cannot definitively attest to the effectiveness of the product in my specific application until next spring. However, I did conduct a preliminary test by plugging in the cable and leaving it for an hour at an ambient temperature of 40 degrees Fahrenheit. I was able to feel the warmth generated by the cable, which was reassuring. Moreover, I ensured that the cable did not become excessively hot, as this could potentially damage the cable or its insulation. The temperature of the cable felt appropriate, providing a reassuring indication of its functionality.

Subsequently, I installed the Radiant Solutions heat tracer cable on a 24-foot PVC exposed drain pipe located underneath a cabin in New York, where winter temperatures can be bitterly cold for extended periods. While there are milder stretches of weather, the self-regulating current of the cable is expected to manage those conditions effectively. Additionally, I found the cable to be durably constructed and of high-quality, with a slightly thicker design compared to competing products. It is worth noting that Radiant Solutions is a U.S.-based company in Minnesota, and this review is completely independent, as I am a one-time customer thus far.

I must commend the customer service provided by Radiant Solutions, as they were able to assist me in clarifying these matters promptly and courteously. I particularly appreciated being able to communicate with someone who spoke English fluently.

I recently purchased the BDDFOTO Water Pipes Heat Cable for Freeze Protection, 25ft(7.6m) to address the recurring issue of freezing pipes in my house. Although I haven't had the opportunity to use it yet due to the current hot weather, I am confident that it will be a reliable solution come winter.

Upon inspection, I was impressed with the solid build and quality of the product. It appears to be heavy-duty and well-made, which gives me confidence that it will effectively prevent pipe freeze. Additionally, the product boasts several useful features that make it highly convenient to use.

One aspect that pleasantly surprised me was the flexibility of the cable. It can be coiled or overlapped, allowing for customization to fit different pipe lengths. This versatility is a huge advantage, as some other products on the market require a trim kit for such adjustments. Furthermore, the factory end of the cable is neatly finished, which I appreciate as it maintains the overall professional look.

One of the standout features of this heat cable is the built-in thermostat. With the ability to automatically turn on below 41 degrees, it provides peace of mind, especially when I am not always around to monitor for sudden drops in temperature. The inclusion of tape and zip ties for easy mounting, as well as clear instructions, further adds to the user-friendliness of the product.

I would like to note that this heat cable is suitable for use with different types of piping, including metal, plastic, and PEX, which is what I am using. The heavy-duty cord with a 110v grounded plug ensures durability and safety.

Although I haven't tested the product yet, I am confident that it will meet my expectations in preventing freezing and offering reliable protection to my pipes. The overall construction and design of the cable instill confidence in its effectiveness.

I recently purchased the 28-foot heat cable for my water pipes in preparation for the upcoming winter season. I must say, I am quite impressed with its performance. The installation process was straightforward, and it even came with tape for easy attachment to the water lines. The cable itself appears to be of good quality and durable.

One of the standout features of this heat cable is its thermostat. This means that I don't have to constantly monitor the outside temperature and manually plug in the cable when freezing temperatures arrive. The thermostat automatically activates the heat cable when the temperature drops, providing peace of mind and convenience. This feature is particularly useful for those who are away from home during the day, like myself, as I no longer have to worry about wasting electricity while the cable is continuously plugged in.

I decided to test the heat cable by placing it in the freezer for a short period of time. As soon as the sensor detected the target temperature, the cable quickly heated up, providing effective and efficient heat. The temperature contrast between the unheated power cord and the heated red cable was clearly noticeable, indicating its effectiveness in preventing frozen pipes.

Speaking of effectiveness, I appreciate the length of this heat cable. At 28 feet, it is long enough to cover the entire length of my water pipe to the hot water heater. This gives me confidence that my pipes will remain warm and free from freezing throughout the winter season. Additionally, the cable only uses 7 watts per foot, which is equivalent to the power consumption of three 60-watt incandescent bulbs. In terms of cost, the power usage amounts to around 50 to 60 cents per day in my area, depending on the temperature.

I am really impressed with this foam insulation for pipes. One of the best features is that it comes with a self-adhesive backing, making it incredibly easy to apply. I used it on my outdoor hoses and water filters in preparation for the winter, and it was a breeze to install.

Last year, I had some pipes freeze up during the super-cold days, so I wanted to be better prepared this time. I initially bought fiberglass pipe insulation wrap, but I quickly realized it was not the best option. Fiberglass is itchy, gets all over your clothes, and can be hazardous to breathe in. That's when I found this foam and foil pipe wrap insulation, and I'm glad I did.

One thing to note is that if your pipes are difficult to access, it's better not to remove the cellophane entirely from the wrap. It can stick to itself and cause frustration when trying to maneuver it around tight bends. I found that wrapping it on the far side of the pipe while leaving the cellophane on the sticky side, then peeling it off on the more accessible side and sticking it together, worked perfectly. You don't necessarily need it to stick onto every inch of the pipe.

I also decided to overlap the wrap on the pipe by about 50% of its width to ensure better insulation. While the wrap isn't particularly thick, it still outperforms the fiberglass insulation by a mile.

In terms of performance, this foam and foil pipe wrap insulation worked exceptionally well for me. The roll measured 34'3", which was longer than the advertised 32.8 feet. The backing peeled off easily, and the adhesive stuck securely enough to do the job effectively. My suggestion is to work with 6-foot pieces and peel off the backing as you wrap to avoid any mess.

I purchased this heat cable to protect the exposed pipes in my garage from freezing during winter. The installation process was incredibly simple and straightforward. The package included a roll of PVC tape, but I opted to use zip strips instead to secure the wire in place. It took me around 15 minutes to complete the installation, with most of the time spent on feeding the heat cable around the pipes. Once plugged in, I could conveniently walk away without any worries.

As I was preparing for winter, I decided to replace my old heat cable with this one. I was pleasantly surprised to find that it came with a generous roll of electrical tape, which was a nice touch. I used the tape to secure the cable to the hose, and then added foam pipe insulation tubes for extra protection. Upon receiving the product, I tested the thermostat, and it worked perfectly. Although I cannot speak for its long-term durability yet, I am confident that it will function well for at least this winter. Should any issues arise, I will be sure to update my review. Additionally, if my old heat cable for the sewer hose turns out to be faulty or fails, I will definitely consider ordering another one. However, I have not yet tested the old cable, so only time will tell. Overall, I give this heat cable two thumbs up for its convenience and effectiveness.

Living in a yurt with subpar insulation and a raised platform, my wife and I face challenges during the winter months. We collect rainwater in IBC totes placed beneath the yurt, as we do not have a well. To prevent freezing, I built a pump and filtration system under the yurt, which has been great, except when it gets too cold. In the past, we would drain the filters and pump nightly when the forecast indicated temperatures of 32ºF or lower. However, during a family visit last December, we returned home to find broken filter housings, burst lines in the propane water heater, and the ends blown out of the stainless tube housing the UV light. It was a costly mistake.

This year, I am taking precautions by wrapping the lines under the yurt and enclosing the "water system." The heating tape will ensure that we avoid any pipe blowouts this winter. I want to focus on enjoying the snow rather than spending my time fixing burst pipes. To confirm the effectiveness of the heat cable, I conducted a test by placing it in the freezer for an hour and then plugging it in. It heated up nicely, proving that it only turns on when the temperature drops. This functionality gives me confidence in its reliability.

I purchased the HEATIT heating cable to keep my water hose from freezing in my travel trailer. I used zip ties to attach the cable to the hose and inserted it into pipe insulation for added protection. So far, this product seems well-made and up to the challenge. However, I have yet to experience extreme winter weather, as single-digit temperatures are expected in Michigan. I hope that the seller or manufacturer will respond if they believe I am setting myself up for failure.

As someone who lives in an RV full-time, having access to water whenever I need it is essential. I can confidently say that this heat wrap is fantastic. It has successfully prevented my water hose from freezing multiple times, even during temperatures as low as -5°F for three days and freezing conditions for a total of five days. I used it on my Flexzilla water hose, adding one layer of heat wrap and wrapping it with swimming noodles, one-inch plumbing, and electrical tape. However, I must caution others to ensure they choose a brand that is "automatic regulating" and can be crisscrossed. I had a negative experience with another brand that lacked automatic regulation, resulting in overheating and almost causing a fire. With this HEATIT heating cable, there is no risk of overheating, and it works exceptionally well.

Installation and operation of this product are super easy. I purchased it specifically to prevent my chickens' water from freezing during the winter. Despite temperatures dropping into the 20s, freezing rain, snow, and sleet, the HEATIT heating cable has successfully kept the water flowing. There is a variety of sizes available, making it easy to find the perfect fit for your specific needs.

I chose the 100-foot version of the HEATIT heating cable to use for my RV water line while our house was being built. I wrapped the cable around a 1/2" PECs line, which was placed above ground and stretched for 85 feet. To further insulate the water line, I used foam pipe insulation, which I purchased from Lowes in six-foot sections. I secured all the sections with 3M aluminum tape. Once plugged in, the thermostat control of the heat line worked flawlessly. Despite experiencing temperatures as low as -17°F and staying below freezing for over 10 consecutive days, I never encountered any issues with frozen water lines. This product truly exceeded my expectations, and my wife, in her own special way, expressed her gratitude for the trouble-free winter we had. I highly recommend the HEATIT heating cable for anyone in need of reliable and efficient freeze protection.

I recently had the opportunity to use this heat tape for outside use and I must say, it has been a game-changer. My wife and I have been living in a camper on our property since our house burned down, and our neighbors have graciously allowed us to use their water supply. However, we encountered a major issue with the water hose freezing up multiple times before I installed this heat tape.

The installation process was fairly straightforward. I wrapped the tape around the metal water pipes, ensuring that the temperature sensor was placed near the plug and in contact with the pipe. It's important to note that this tape is not suitable for flexible vinyl pipes like garden hoses, but works perfectly for metal or plastic water pipes.

To maximize efficiency, I also wrapped the pipe with 1/2" non-flammable insulation to contain the heat generated by the cable. This insulation helps in preventing the water from freezing in the pipe, which can cause damage due to ice expansion.

One feature that I particularly appreciate is the automatic thermostat. The heater turns on when the temperature drops below 43'F (6'C) and stops heating once the temperature sensor reaches 55'F (13'C). This ensures that the pipe remains at a safe temperature without wasting unnecessary power.

Before installing the tape, it is advisable to perform a simple test to ensure its functionality. There are two methods for testing. The first method involves plugging in the heating cable and taping an ice pack to the temperature sensor. Within 5 minutes, the cable should feel warm. Removing the ice pack will cause the cable to cool down gradually. It's important to note that due to the insulated cable, it may take around 30 minutes or more for the cable to cool down completely. The second method involves using a multimeter on the ohm setting to test the resistance between the hot leads and ground. The reading should be above 50Mohm, indicating that the cable is in good condition.

In terms of performance, this heat tape has truly exceeded my expectations. Since installing it, our water hose has not frozen even once, despite the freezing temperatures. This product has effectively solved our freezing water line problem and I would highly recommend it to anyone facing similar issues.