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Step 1
Prevent frozen pipes.Find out how much heat tape you need by measuring your exposed pipes. Heat tape runs in a continuous line, so even if you have several sections, measure the distance between the pipes too. You may need several sections of heat tape, depending on your pipe configuration and how much is uninsulated.
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Step 2
Apply the heat tape to your pipes, either circling it around the pipe or running it in a straight line along the pipe. Tape it into place with electrical tape.
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Step 3
Cover heat tape with pipe insulation. While heat tape will work on its own in many circumstances, it can't protect against extreme cold and insulation will improve your chances as well as protect the pipes and heat tape from the elements.
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Step 4
Plug in the heat tape. You may need an extension cord to reach an outlet. Set the thermostat (if present) or pen a reminder to turn the heat tape on or off as the weather fluctuates. Turning it off when it's above freezing will save on your electrical bill.
















Comments
ScarlettOHairy said
on 1/5/2009 Thanks for these tips. Useful for these cold months.