When installing your in-pipe heating cable, proper preparation and careful handling are key to ensuring both safety and efficiency. Below are important guidelines to follow before and during installation:
Before Installation
1. Measure Pipe Length
Ensure you accurately measure the length of your pipe to determine the required length of the heating cable. If you can't find a cable with the exact length you need, it's better to purchase one slightly longer to accommodate any minor variations.
How to adjust if the cable is too long：check here.
2. Check for Sharp Bends
This heating cable is not suitable for sharp bends, such as 90-degree or 45-degree elbows. If your piping system has such abrupt turns, it’s essential to replace those sections with smoother, sweeping bends that will allow the cable to pass through easily without damage.
3. Verify Pipe Diameter
Ensure the internal diameter of your pipe, including any pipe fittings, is larger than 3/4''. This in-pipe heating cable is specifically designed for pipes and fittings with an internal diameter exceeding 3/4''. Pipes or fittings with smaller diameters will not be compatible.
During Installation
1. Prepare Fittings for Non-standard Pipes
If your pipe’s internal diameter is not 3/4'', you will need an adapter to convert it, allowing the heating cable’s brass fitting to connect securely to a 3/4'' adapter.
Please note, the T-fitting is not included with our product and must be purchased separately.
You can find suitable adapters here: Yelodeer Adapters.
2. Protect the Outer Jacket
Be careful not to damage the outer jacket of the heating cable during installation. Any punctures or tears can compromise the cable’s integrity and may result in leaks or malfunction.
3. Various Installation Methods of Long Water Pipes
Method 1 – Fish Tape
Use a long fish tape (150 ft or longer) to pull the heating cable through the pipe. This is one of the most reliable ways for long installations.
1. From the opposite pipe end, push fish tape to the beginning end.
2. Push the cable into the pipe while someone gently pulls the fish tape from the opposite end.
Method 2 – Vacuum & Sponge
Attach a small sponge to the cable, then use a wet/dry vacuum on the opposite end of the pipe to help pull the cable through.
Method 3 – Water-Based Lubricant
Applying a nontoxic, potable water-based lubricant to the cable jacket can reduce friction and make insertion smoother.
Method 4 – Cut-and-Splice (Relay Feed)
If the cable is too long to push in one pass, you can use a **Relay Feed**:
1. Push the heating cable as far as it will go.
2. Cut the pipe at a convenient spot (be careful not to damage the cable).
3. Pass the cable through a hose barb splicer and clamps, then continue to push the same cable further into the pipe from this point.
4. Once the cable reaches the target, tighten the clamps on the splicer to seal the pipe.
4. Detailed Installation Steps
Additional Tips
For energy efficiency, consider pairing the heating cable with a compatible thermostat. This thermostat allows you to manually set the temperature at which the cable activates, ensuring the heating cable only operates when necessary. This feature can help conserve energy and lower electricity costs by preventing unnecessary heating.
By following these steps, you can ensure a safe and efficient installation, helping your in-pipe heating cable function optimally while protecting your pipes from freezing.