This explains why 60% of the heat tape installations we do in the Minneapolis area involve tearing out constant-wattage and replacing it with self-regulating cable, even on systems less than a year old.”
Gutter heater wire install#
Based on my many years of experience in ice dam prevention and residential construction, my opinion on constant-wattage cable is clear: It is better to not install anything than to use these products on your home. Kuhl says “ Sadly, constant-wattage heat cable is the most widely used roof deicing cable in the country, accounting for roughly 90% of all residential installations and nearly 100% of all complaints. In this article, Steve Kuhl who has 30 years experience with ice dam prevention and currently works with Radiant Solution Company was invited as a guest blogger for the Star Tribune. The Star Tribune in Minneapolis has an excellent discussion of what type of heat cables to purchase and the cost comparison. For example, in the following This Old House video it shows heat cables that have a temperature and moisture sensor so they turn on/off for you when you need them. It may cost a little more, but investing in high-quality self-regulating heat cable is worth it.
Gutter heater wire how to#
How to Keep the Cost of Heat Cables Reasonable Using heat cables to remedy ice dams for the long run is not an energy efficient solution.
This is especially true if your home needs several cables. For some Kansas City winters this cost might be minimal…but in others well…your electricity bill can sky rocket quickly. In order for them to work, they should be turned on an hour or two before wintery weather hits and remain on anytime ice and snow are on the roof. Heat cables have one big draw back – expense. This is extremely helpful because without a channel, the water will begin to back up and will leak into your home. Heat tape melts ice and snow as they fall along the roof line preventing ice dams and allow water to drain properly into clean gutters. However, most of the time heat cable should be viewed as a band-aid or short term solution. Heat cables can certainly help a home that struggles with ice dams. Heat cables are an electric heating cord typically installed along the edge of a roofline and through the gutter. The primary purpose of heat cables/heat tape is to prevent ice dams and create the opportunity to drain melting snow away from the home.
Heat Cables: Should I Put Them On My Home? January 11, 2021
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