How to Choose the Right Heat Cable for Your Pipes

If you're looking to protect your pipes from freezing during cold weather, heat cables (also called heat tapes) are a great solution. At YeloDeer, we offer several types of self-regulating heat cables designed for different pipe setups.

What Does "Self-Regulating" Mean?

All our heat cables featured here are self-regulating, which means:

1) They adjust heat output based on temperature, producing more warmth in cold conditions and less in milder weather.

2) Different sections of the same cable can heat independently. (Example: An outdoor pipe segment will generate more heat than an indoor section.)

3) This makes them energy-efficient and safe against overheating.

Which One Should I Choose for Pipe Freeze-Protection?

● For exposed and accessible pipes? → PGB (wraps outside, automatic on/off by thermostat).
● For open drains/gutters? → IW (Submersible, Plug and heat, no thermostat).
● For concealed or inaccessible drinking water Pipes? → IP or IP-Y (Cable Sealing Pipe Fitting Included).
● For septic/sewer lines? → IPW (Heavy-duty, used with Rubber Sealing kits).

Now, let’s compare our five heat cable models.

1. PGB – For exposed and accessible Pipes (Outdoor/Indoor Use, with Thermostat)

✅ Best for: Wrapping around exposed pipes (like outdoor spigots, garage pipes, or basement pipes).

✅ Key Features:
● Self-regulating (5W/ft at 50°F / 10°C).
● Built-in thermostat: Turns on at 37°F (3°C) and shuts off at 50°F (10°C).
● Energy-saving:  It only runs when needed.
● Simple installation: Easy to install by wrapping around the pipe.

Great for: Homeowners who want a simple, automatic solution for outdoor pipes.

2. IW – For open drains/gutters (No Thermostat)

✅ Best for: Unpressurized pipes like drain pipes, downspouts, or sewer lines (under 100 PSI).

✅ Key Features:
● Self-regulating (3W/ft at 50°F / 10°C).
● No thermostat: Starts heating as soon as plugged in.
● Simple installation: Push directly into pipe openings, no fittings needed.

Great for: Preventing ice clogs in gutters, french drains, or sump pump discharge lines.

⚠️ Important:
● Avoid sharp bends or kinks, these may damage the cable or reduce performance.
● For long/twisted pipes, a fish tape (wire puller) is recommended to assist installation.

3. IP – For concealed or inaccessible Drinking Water Pipes (High Pressure, Food-Grade Safe)

✅ Best for: Pressurized drinking water pipes that are underground or wall-encased(up to 230 PSI).

✅ Key Features:
● Self-regulating (3W/ft at 50°F / 10°C).
● Food-grade fluoropolymer jacket: Safe for potable water.
● GFCI protection: Stops power if electrical issues occur.
● Requires cutting the pipe and installing a T-fitting (changes pipe layout slightly).

Great for: Homeowners who need freeze protection for indoor plumbing safely.

4. IP-Y – Easier-to-Install Version of IP (Same Features, Y-Fitting Included)

✅ Same as IP and with easier installation.

✅ Key Features:
● Same 3W/ft self-regulating heat, food-grade safe, and GFCI protection.
● Comes with a Y-fitting: Lets you install without altering pipe direction.
● Still requires cutting the pipe.

Great for: Those who want the safety of IP but a simpler setup.

5. IPW - For Sewer & Wastewater Pipes (Heavy-Duty, 5W/ft Power)

✅ Best for: Sewer lines, septic tanks, wastewater systems, and underground pipes.

✅ Key Features:
● Self-regulating (5W/ft at 50°F/10°C)
● No thermostat: Runs continuously when plugged in
● Universal pipe compatibility: Works with pipes 2" and larger
● Optional sealing kits available for 3" and 4" pipes (sold separately)
● GFCI protected: Automatic shut-off for electrical safety
● Durable construction: Made for harsh wastewater environments

Great for: Preventing freeze damage in septic systems, drain fields, and buried waste lines.