Quck answer
Heat tape is a useful tool for preventing PVC pipes from freezing during cold weather. To use heat tape on PVC pipe, follow these steps:
1. Measure the length of the pipe that needs to be protected.
2. Choose a heat tape that is suitable for PVC pipes and has a built-in thermostat.
3. Clean the pipe surface thoroughly to ensure good adhesion of the tape.
4. Wrap the heat tape around the pipe, making sure to overlap the tape slightly.
5. Secure the tape with electrical tape or zip ties.
6. Plug in the heat tape and set the thermostat to the desired temperature.
7. Insulate the pipe with foam insulation or pipe sleeves for added protection.
By following these steps, you can effectively use heat tape to prevent PVC pipes from freezing and avoid costly repairs.
When dealing with plumbing in your house, you’ll usually find that PVC pipe is not recommended for hot water situations where the temperature exceeds 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Knowing this might make you hesitate if you need to use heat tape on your plumbing.
Can you wrap heat-sensitive PVC pipe in heat tape? Yes, but only if you use tape that is specifically labeled as safe for use on PVC. You also need to ensure that the tape you choose has a temperature regulator if using it on PVC.
Before You Start
Heat tape is a safe way to prevent your pipes from freezing when installed correctly, but it can be a fire hazard if not. Therefore, there are a few things you need to understand before you begin wrapping your pipes. First, there are different types of heat tape available. You need the one designed for wrapping plumbing pipes, not the kind used for preventing ice dams on roofs. Carefully read the package or product description to make sure you get the right tape for the job.
Some heat tapes are suitable for outdoor use, allowing you to wrap pipes under mobile homes or keep well water flowing freely. However, other tapes are meant for indoor use in basements and other protected areas. Always use outdoor tape outdoors and indoor tape inside; do not interchange the two.
Also, remember that heat tape should only be used on exposed plumbing. Never use heat tape on pipes that will be enclosed inside a wall. In such cases, you will need to install pipe insulation or find another method to prevent frozen pipes.
What You’ll Need
-
UL-listed heat tape or cable recommended for PVC usage
-
Electrical tape
-
Pipe insulation (optional)
Using Heat Tape on PVC Pipe
Step 1: Conduct a Safety Check
Before you begin, make sure you have the correct heat tape for indoor or outdoor use and that it is suitable for PVC pipe. If you plan to wrap PVC drainpipes, ensure that your tape allows for that. The requirements for drains are slightly different, so check your tape to ensure it is safe.
- Determine your measurements. The quantity of heat tape required depends on the length and width of the pipe you are wrapping. The packaging of the tape will guide you on how much to use, so it is important to ensure you have enough before starting.
- Check if there is a ground-fault circuit-interrupter (GFCI) outlet nearby where you can plug in the heat tape. If not, hire a licensed electrician to install one.
- Inspect the pipes you plan to wrap and make sure there are no leaks. If you find any leaks, fix them before proceeding.
- If applicable, remove any old heat tape or pipe insulation.
Step 2: Wrapping the Pipe
Start wrapping the pipe from the electrical outlet to ensure that you have enough length to easily plug in the tape. Follow the instructions provided by the tape manufacturer to wrap the pipe. Note that “heat tape” may actually be a less flexible heat cable that is run along the side of the pipes instead of wrapping them.
- Wrap the tape tightly around the pipe, leaving the recommended spacing between wraps as indicated in the tape instructions. The goal is not to cover the entire pipe with tape. Wrapping the tape too closely can cause the pipe to overheat and lead to issues.
- Secure the heat tape to the pipes at least every 2 feet using electrical tape. If your heat tape comes with another type of fastener, you can use it instead of electrical tape to hold the tape in place.
- Adjust the end of the wrap so that the end cap does not touch the ground, where it could collect moisture and cause a short circuit.
- If allowed by the tape manufacturer, insulate the pipes over the heat tape. Some tapes cannot be covered, while others can be covered but only with fiberglass or other nonflammable pipe insulation.
- Plug in the heat tape as necessary to prevent freezing. Always plug the tape directly into a three-prong GFCI outlet and never use an extension cord.
Warning
Do not wrap the heat tape over itself during installation, as this can cause a short circuit that burns through the PVC pipe or starts a fire.
