Compact In-Pipe Heating Cable for Drain Lines, Condensate Lines & Low-Pressure Wastewater Pipes
YeloDeer IPHC-DMi is a compact self-regulating in-pipe heating cable designed for open drain lines, HVAC condensate drains, high-efficiency furnace drain pipes, roof drainage pipes, gray water discharge lines, low-pressure septic lines, and small sewer or wastewater drain applications where freezing can block water flow during winter.
This cable is now available with 3W/ft and 5W/ft heating output options. The 3W/ft version provides efficient freeze protection for standard winter conditions, while the 5W/ft version provides higher supplemental heat output for colder climates, exposed drain locations, and applications with increased freezing risk.
This cable is inserted directly into accessible pipe openings without complicated fittings. Its slim 0.3 × 0.19 in cable profile makes it easier to route through smaller drain openings, while the corrosion-resistant fluoropolymer outer jacket helps protect the cable in wet and wastewater environments.
It is a practical freeze protection solution for customers who need a smaller, flexible, and cost-effective drain line heating cable with selectable heating output based on their application needs.
Quick Fit Snapshot
3W/ft & 5W/ft Options Choose standard freeze protection or higher heat output for colder environments.
Self-Regulating Heating Automatically adjusts heat output as surrounding temperature changes.
Open Pipe Insertion Push directly into accessible pipe openings without sealed fittings in many applications.
Not for Potable Water Not intended for drinking water lines or sealed pressurized water supply pipes.
Key Benefits
Prevents Ice Clogs Helps reduce freezing and ice buildup in open drain, condensate, and low-pressure wastewater lines.
Slim Cable Profile Approx. 0.3 × 0.19 in cable size helps with insertion into smaller open drain routes.
Self-Regulating Technology Automatically adjusts heat output as surrounding temperature changes.
Wet-Environment Jacket Corrosion-resistant fluoropolymer outer jacket helps protect the cable in drain environments.
Multiple Heat Output Options Available in 3W/ft standard heating and 5W/ft higher heat output options for different winter conditions.
Insulation Compatible Can be used with suitable pipe insulation to improve freeze protection in exposed areas.
Best For
HVAC & Furnace Drains
Condensate Drains Furnace Drain Pipes Attic Condensate Utility Drains
Open Drain Lines
Basement Drains Garage Drains Roof Drains Downspout Drains
Low-Pressure Wastewater
Gray Water Lines Low-Pressure Septic Drains Small Sewer Drains Outdoor Drainage
Cold-Weather Problem Areas
Cabins Garages Attics Basements Outdoor Pipes
Choose Your Heating Output
3W/ft Standard Heat Output Recommended for standard winter freeze protection, HVAC condensate drains, furnace drains, and moderate climate applications.
5W/ft High Heat Output Recommended for colder climates, exposed drain locations, longer freezing periods, and applications requiring stronger supplemental heat.
Important Before You Order
This product is for open or low-pressure drain applications.
It is not intended for sealed pressurized water supply pipes, potable drinking water lines, or applications requiring certified drinking water contact.
Before ordering, confirm your pipe type, required heating length, installation method, and whether 3W/ft or 5W/ft output is suitable for your winter conditions.
If you need a higher heat option for colder environments, choose the 5W/ft version. For standard freeze protection needs, the 3W/ft version may provide sufficient heating performance.
Your pipe is an open drain or low-pressure drain line The cable can be inserted directly through an accessible opening You selected the correct heating output option The pipe route is not blocked, collapsed, or unknown The cable will not be crushed, cut, or exposed to moving parts You have measured the drain section that needs freeze protection The outlet is close enough for the included power cord Outdoor plug and outlet connections can be protected from moisture
Self-Regulating Does Not Mean Auto-Off
This cable automatically adjusts heat output based on surrounding temperature. The 5W/ft version provides higher maximum heating capability compared with the 3W/ft version.
However, self-regulating does not mean the cable turns itself completely off. To stop heating completely, unplug the cable or use a compatible thermostat.
For automatic seasonal operation and energy savings, use this cable with a compatible YeloDeer Pipe Heat Tape Thermostat, sold separately.
Length Selection Reminder
The heating cable cannot be cut or shortened in the field.
Choose a cable length based on the section of pipe that needs freeze protection. Select the correct length and heating output before ordering.
If you need a special length, contact yelodeer@yelodeer.com before ordering.
Complete Pipe Heating Solutions



Applications
Recommended Applications
YeloDeer IPHC-DMi is designed for small to medium open drain and low-pressure wastewater applications where ice buildup may block flow during winter. The available 3W/ft and 5W/ft heating options allow customers to select the appropriate heat output according to climate conditions and installation requirements.
HVAC & Utility Drains
HVAC Condensate Furnace Drains Attic Condensate Utility Drain Lines
Building Drainage
Basement Drains Garage Drains Roof Drainage Downspout Drains
Low-Pressure Wastewater
Gray Water Pipes Septic Drain Lines Open Sewer Drains Outdoor Drainage
Cold-Exposure Areas
Cabins Garages Attics Basements Outdoor Pipes
Pipe Compatibility
This cable can be used with many common drain pipe materials when the route is open, accessible, and large enough for the cable to pass without force.
PVC Drain Pipes ABS Drain Pipes Metal Drain Pipes Condensate Drain Tubing Low-Pressure Wastewater Pipes Compatible Septic Drain Lines
Selecting the Right Heating Output
Choose 3W/ft Version If You need standard freeze protection for HVAC condensate drains, furnace drains, and common winter drain applications.
Choose 5W/ft Version If You need additional heating output for colder climates, exposed drain locations, stronger wind exposure, or higher freezing risk conditions.
When Not to Use This Product
- Pressurized drinking water supply lines
- Sealed pressurized pipe systems
- 1/2 in PEX water supply pipes
- Pipes with blocked, collapsed, or unknown internal conditions
- Pipes with sharp bends where the cable cannot pass safely
- Pipes where the cable could be crushed, cut, or damaged
- Applications requiring a sealed pipe entry point
Specifications
Product Specifications
| Product Type |
Compact self-regulating in-pipe heating cable for drain lines |
| Model |
IPHC-DMi |
| Application |
Open drain lines, condensate drains, furnace drains, gray water discharge, and low-pressure wastewater pipes |
| Heating Output |
3W/ft or 5W/ft at 50°F / 10°C (depending on selected variant) |
| Heating Output Options |
3W/ft Standard Heat Output 5W/ft High Heat Output |
| Low-Temperature Output |
Self-regulating output increases as surrounding temperature decreases |
| Voltage |
120V |
| Cable Type |
Self-regulating heating cable |
| Outer Jacket |
Corrosion-resistant fluoropolymer jacket |
| Cable Size |
Approx. 0.3 × 0.19 in |
| Power Cord Length |
6 ft |
| Minimum Bend Radius |
1 in at 32°F / 0°C |
| Maximum Stable Cable Temperature |
60°C / 140°F |
| Recommended Use |
Open or low-pressure drain applications |
| Standard Lengths |
5 ft to 75 ft |
| Custom Lengths |
Available by request |
| Field Cutting |
Not allowed |
How to Choose the Right Length
Measure the section of drain pipe that needs freeze protection. Start from the cable entry point and measure to the farthest area where freezing may occur.
The location of the pipe opening The length of the exposed or freezing section Whether the pipe has bends Whether the pipe is open or sealed Whether the cable can be inserted easily Whether the outlet is close enough for the power cord Whether fish tape may be needed for longer pipe runs Whether insulation is needed for exposed sections
Do not cut or shorten the heating cable.
Select both the correct cable length and heating output before installation.
Installation
Basic Installation Overview
YeloDeer IPHC-DMi is designed for simple insertion into open drain lines and compatible low-pressure drain systems. The installation method depends on the pipe type, access point, pipe condition, and selected heating output.
Typical Installation Steps
- Identify the section of pipe that needs freeze protection.
- Confirm the pipe is open, accessible, and free from blockage.
- Select the correct cable length and heating output (3W/ft or 5W/ft) before installation.
- Insert the heating cable directly into the pipe opening.
- For pipe runs over 20 ft, use fish tape or a similar guide tool if needed.
- Avoid forcing the cable through sharp bends, restricted areas, or damaged pipe sections.
- Keep the cable positioned in the pipe section requiring freeze protection.
- Install suitable pipe insulation if additional protection is required.
- Plug the cable into a properly protected 120V outlet.
- Use a thermostat or compatible controller if automatic temperature control is desired.
Important Installation Notes
Do Not Cut or Splice The cable cannot be shortened, cut, or modified in the field.
Do Not Force Cable Do not force the cable through blocked, collapsed, sharp, or restricted pipe sections.
Maintain Bend Radius Avoid sharp bends and maintain the minimum bend radius to protect the cable.
Use Open Drain Applications Only This product is not designed for sealed pressurized water systems or potable water lines.
Protect Outdoor Power Protect plugs, outlets, and extension cord connections from rain, snow, and standing water.
Select Correct Heat Output Choose 3W/ft for standard applications or 5W/ft for colder conditions requiring additional heating.
Using Fish Tape
For longer pipe runs, especially over 20 ft, fish tape can help guide the heating cable through the pipe.
Make sure the pipe route is clear before installation. Do not pull or force the cable through tight bends.
Using Pipe Insulation
This heating cable can be used with suitable pipe insulation to improve freeze protection performance.
Attic Condensate Drains Outdoor Exposed Drains Basement Drain Lines Crawl Space Drains Roof Drainage Pipes Wind-Exposed Pipes
Temperature Controller Recommendation
The cable can operate without a thermostat, but a thermostat is recommended for automatic operation and energy management.
The self-regulating function adjusts heat output according to surrounding temperature. It does not completely shut off unless power is disconnected or a compatible controller is used.
Electrical & Drain Installation Notice:
Keep plugs, outlets, and extension cord connections dry and protected from rain, snow, and standing water.
Do not install the cable in blocked, collapsed, unknown, or mechanically unsafe pipe routes.
FAQ
What is the difference between the 3W/ft and 5W/ft versions?
The 3W/ft version provides standard freeze protection for common drain applications, while the 5W/ft version provides higher heat output for colder climates, exposed drain locations, and applications with increased freezing risk.
Which heating output should I choose?
Choose 3W/ft for standard winter conditions, HVAC condensate drains, furnace drains, and general freeze protection. Choose 5W/ft when the installation location experiences colder temperatures, stronger wind exposure, longer freezing periods, or higher freeze risk.
Can this cable be used with pipe insulation?
Yes. Suitable pipe insulation can improve freeze protection performance, especially for exposed outdoor drain pipes, attic condensate drains, and crawl space applications.
Can this cable be used in an empty pipe?
Yes. The self-regulating cable can be used in drain applications that may be empty most of the time, such as condensate drains or intermittent wastewater drains.
Can the cable touch itself or overlap?
Because this is a self-regulating heating cable, it can safely touch itself under normal installation conditions.
Avoid sharp bends, knots, crushing, or forcing the cable into restricted areas.
Can this cable be used in drinking water pipes?
No. This product is not intended for potable drinking water lines or sealed pressurized water supply pipes.
Can this cable be used for sealed sewer systems?
This product is designed for open or low-pressure drain applications. For sealed sewer or septic applications, choose the YeloDeer Heavy-Duty Sewer Pipe Heating Cable.
What should I do if I am not sure which product to choose?
Please contact YeloDeer with your pipe type, pipe diameter, required heating length, application photos, whether the pipe is open or sealed, and your winter temperature conditions.
Guides
The installation photos below show how customers use YeloDeer IPHC-DMi compact in-pipe heating cable for drain line freeze protection in real applications.
Common installation examples include HVAC condensate drains, furnace drain lines, roof drainage pipes, open drain lines, low-pressure wastewater pipes, septic drain lines, and outdoor drainage systems.
The available 3W/ft and 5W/ft heating options allow customers to select the appropriate heat output according to their winter conditions, pipe exposure, and freeze protection requirements.
Every drain system is different. Pipe diameter, entry point, pipe condition, bends, outlet location, insulation, and exposure to freezing air can all affect installation.
Before Ordering, Please Check
What type of drain line you have Whether the pipe is open or sealed The pipe diameter The length of pipe that needs freeze protection Whether the pipe has sharp bends or restricted areas Whether fish tape is needed for installation Whether the pipe should be insulated Whether the outlet and plug can be protected from moisture Whether 3W/ft or 5W/ft output is suitable for your climate
3W/ft or 5W/ft Selection Guide
3W/ft Standard Heat Output Suitable for common drain freeze protection applications, HVAC condensate drains, furnace drains, and moderate winter conditions.
5W/ft High Heat Output Suitable for colder climates, exposed drain locations, and applications requiring stronger supplemental heating performance.
Use With Insulation Insulation can improve freeze protection performance and reduce heat loss in exposed areas.
Inspect Before Winter Check cable condition, power connections, and insulation before seasonal operation.
Installation Examples

Seasonal Maintenance Checklist
- Inspect the heating cable before the winter season.
- Check the outer jacket and power connection for visible damage.
- Confirm outdoor electrical connections remain protected from moisture.
- Check pipe insulation condition where installed.
- Remove debris that may interfere with drain operation.
- Replace damaged components before using the system.
Need Help Choosing the Right Version?
If you are unsure whether the 3W/ft or 5W/ft version is suitable for your application, send YeloDeer your pipe type, pipe diameter, required heating length, installation photos, whether the pipe is open or sealed, and your winter temperature conditions.
Our team can help recommend the appropriate heating cable solution for your drain freeze protection needs.