- Heat tape prevents damage to fresh water pipes. The way to do this is to wrap the fresh water pipes in heat tape during the installation process. The fresh water pipes could also go through the thermo-isolation process afterward. After heat tape is installed, however, that's not the end of the job. You must periodically and reliably check the heat tape to ensure the insulating material is still in good condition.
- It is crucial that you follow the heat tape installation instructions precisely. If you don't, you run a high risk of causing an accident or even a fire. Most people are not aware that a large number of home fires are caused by the improper installation of heat tape around the fresh water pipes. The heat tape should be used for the water pipes as well as the valves that shut the water pipes.
- Before you install heat tape, find out exactly what size and what type of heat tape to purchase. The way to do this is by finding out the diameter and length of your fresh water pipes. Also, determine the accurate number of faucets and valves. This will assist in finding out how much heat tape you need.
- Heat tape can also be purchased in bulk. The good thing about buying heat tape in bulk is that this way, it can be installed to any length of water line. To install heat tape this way, it's necessary to use a thermostat and a plug end to complete the heat tape.
- Heat tape can be purchased at any hardware store, but if you don't want to leave your house there are many places to purchase it online. Some excellent websites for buying quality heat tape include Easy Heat, Green Shields Industrial and Ace Hardware.
