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In-Drain Heating Cable Kit for 1/2 & 3/4 in Non-Pressurized Drains (DGK)
Overview
DrainGuard In-Drain Heating Cable Kit for Small Non-Pressurized Drain Pipes
Key Buying Information
Need a different pipe size or cable length?
This complete kit already includes the 1/2 & 3/4 in. entry fittings. If the pipe size or available cable lengths do not fit your installation, choose the same DMi cable with matching entry fittings below.
1, 1-1/4 or 1-1/2 in. pipe?
DGK includes smaller fittings. Buy a DMi cable together with the larger DrainGuard entry kit for these pipe sizes.
Choose DMi + larger entry fittings →
Right pipe size, but need another cable length?
For 1/2 or 3/4 in. pipes, choose an available DMi length and buy the small DrainGuard entry kit with it.
Choose DMi + small entry fittings →Non-pressurized drains only.
- Not for pressurized water or potable-water supply lines.
- Not for a drain that is already frozen, blocked, collapsed, or damaged.
- No open cable-entry end is required, but the line must remain non-pressurized.
- Installation requires cutting and reconnecting a short section of pipe.
Self-regulating does not mean automatic shutoff. Add the YeloDeer Pipe Heat Tape Thermostat for automatic temperature-based on/off control.
Applications
Small Drain Pipe Applications
DGK combines a heating cable and entry fittings for compatible 1/2 and 3/4 in. non-pressurized drains. It can serve the applications below when a standard cable length fits. Larger 1, 1-1/4 and 1-1/2 in. pipes use a DMi cable with the separate large entry kit.
Compatible non-pressurized drain runs exposed to freezing.
Compatible gray-water drain lines with a clear internal cable route.
Small equipment and appliance drains within the supported pipe sizes.
HVAC and heating-system condensate drains are one common application.
Pipe Compatibility
The standard kit is designed for 3/4" drain lines. It can also be adapted to 1/2" drain lines using the included adapter components.
The included pipe fittings are PVC. When connecting the supplied PVC components to ABS pipe, use approved PVC-to-ABS transition cement where required by local code and cement manufacturer instructions.
Flexible Drain Hose Applications
Flexible drain hose installations may be possible in some non-pressurized drain applications, but they require a properly sized hose barb-to-PVC adapter and clamp.
Hose barb adapters and clamps are not included.
Confirm hose size, fitting compatibility, and non-pressurized drain use before installation. Do not use this product on pressurized flexible water lines.
When Not to Use This Product
- Pressurized water supply lines
- Potable drinking water lines
- PEX water supply pipes under pressure
- Main household water lines
- Fuel, chemical, or industrial process lines
- Drain lines that are already blocked, collapsed, or unknown inside
- Applications where electrical connections may be submerged in water
- Installations requiring a sealed entry point for a pressurized system
Product Selection Help
For pressurized potable water lines, choose YeloDeer Standard In-Pipe Heating Cable or YeloDeer Y-Fitting In-Pipe Heating Cable.
For large sealed sewer or septic applications, choose YeloDeer Heavy-Duty Sewer Pipe Heating Cable.
Specifications
Heating Cable Specifications
| Product Type | In-pipe heating cable kit for small non-pressurized drain lines |
| Product Series | DrainGuard DGK |
| Voltage | 120 V AC |
| Standard Power Output | 3 W/ft at 50°F / 10°C |
| Optional Power Output | 5 W/ft at 50°F / 10°C may be available upon request |
| Cable Type | Self-regulating heating cable |
| Heating Cable Model | PG-3CT1 standard / PG-5CT1 optional |
| Outer Jacket | Fluoropolymer |
| Minimum Working Temperature | -40°F / -40°C |
| Maximum Exposure Temperature | 185°F / 85°C |
| Maximum Maintenance Temperature | 149°F / 65°C |
| Bus Wire Gauge | 18 AWG |
| Cable Dimensions | 0.30 × 0.19 in / 7.9 × 4.7 mm |
| Certification | CSA-certified heating cable |
| Recommended Pipe Size | 3/4" drain line standard; 1/2" drain line with included adapter components |
| Pipe Type | PVC or ABS non-pressurized drain pipe |
| Field Cutting | Do not cut or modify the heating cable in the field |
Kit Includes
How to Choose the Right Length
Choose a cable length based on the total drain-line area that may be exposed to freezing. Measure from the planned Y-fitting entry point to the farthest freeze-prone section of the drain line.
The heating cable does not need to be fully inserted into the pipe.
Any remaining cable may stay outside the pipe or be wrapped around nearby unheated drain sections for additional freeze protection. Do not cut or shorten the heating cable in the field.
Suggested Length Guide
| 5 ft | Short exposed drain sections or compact installations |
| 10 ft | Short small-pipe drain freeze protection |
| 20 ft | Longer runs through basements, garages, crawl spaces, or wall exits |
| 30 ft | Extended drain lines or multiple exposed areas |
| 50 ft | Long runs, special installations, or service-professional use |
If you are between two sizes, choose a length that is slightly longer than your estimated freeze-prone section. This allows for better coverage and optional wrapping around nearby exposed drain sections.
Custom Lengths
Custom lengths may be available upon request. Contact yelodeer@yelodeer.com before ordering.
Please include pipe diameter, required heating length, application type, installation photos, and whether the drain line is PVC, ABS, or flexible hose.
Installation
Installation Type
DrainGuard uses a cut-and-connect drain-line installation. A short section of the existing drain line is removed and replaced with the included PVC Y-fitting assembly. The heating cable is then inserted through the side port and routed into the drain line.
Recommended Tools
General Installation Steps
- Disconnect power before installation.
- Shut off the HVAC, furnace, boiler, or appliance connected to the drain line.
- Locate the freeze-prone section of the drain line.
- Confirm the drain line is non-pressurized.
- Confirm pipe material and select the correct primer and solvent cement.
- Measure and cut the pipe conservatively.
- Deburr and clean all pipe ends.
- Install the Y-fitting and adapter components as needed.
- Insert the heating cable through the Y-fitting side port and into the drain line.
- Install the rubber gasket, sealing grommet, and lock nut.
- Route any remaining cable outside the pipe or wrap it around nearby unheated drain sections if needed.
- Allow all bonded joints to cure. With the cable disconnected, run water through the drain and check every joint and the cable-entry seal for leaks.
- Correct any leak and confirm unobstructed drainage before connecting power. Then follow the heating cable instructions for electrical connection and operation.
Cut Length Reference
| 3/4" Drain Line | Recommended cut length: 2.75 in / 7 cm |
| 1/2" Drain Line | Recommended cut length: 8.25 in / 21 cm |
Cut conservatively.
If too little pipe is removed, additional trimming can be done during installation. If too much pipe is removed, proper insertion depth may not be achieved, which may result in weak joints or leaks.
Important Installation Notes
Using Pipe Insulation
For best results, wrap protected drain sections with suitable pipe insulation after installation. Insulation helps reduce heat loss and improves freeze protection in exposed or unheated areas.
Temperature Controller Recommendation
DrainGuard can operate without an external thermostat because it uses a self-regulating heating cable. However, a thermostat controller can help improve energy efficiency and convenience during winter.
For automatic temperature control, use with YeloDeer Pipe Heat Tape Thermostat, sold separately.
Flexible Hose Adapter Note
Flexible drain hose installations require a properly sized hose barb-to-PVC adapter and clamp. These parts are not included with the kit.
Use only properly sized fittings suitable for the hose and drain application. Do not use this product on pressurized hose or potable water supply tubing.
FAQ
Common Questions
What is DrainGuard used for?
DrainGuard helps prevent freezing in compatible 1/2 and 3/4 in. non-pressurized drain lines. Applications include general low-flow drainage, gray-water discharge, equipment drains and HVAC or heating-system condensate drains. Select a standard kit length that fits the cable route.
Is this only for condensate drain lines?
No. Condensate is one application. DGK can also serve compatible general drainage, gray-water and equipment drain lines, provided the pipe is 1/2 or 3/4 in. and meets the installation requirements. For 1, 1-1/4 or 1-1/2 in. drain pipe, choose DMi with the large entry kit.
What pipe size does it fit?
The standard kit is designed for 3/4" drain lines and can be adapted to 1/2" drain lines using the included components.
Can this be used for pressurized or potable water lines?
No. This product is designed specifically for non-pressurized drain line applications. It is not intended for pressurized plumbing systems, potable water supply lines, PEX supply lines, or main household water lines.
Can it be used with flexible drain hose?
Yes, in some non-pressurized drain applications. A properly sized hose barb-to-PVC adapter and clamp are required.
Hose barb adapters and clamps are not included.
What if the drain line is already frozen?
Thaw and restore normal drainage before installing DrainGuard. This product is designed for freeze prevention, not as the primary method for thawing a blocked pipe.
Do not force the cable into a blocked, collapsed, or unknown drain line.
Does the cable need to be fully inserted into the pipe?
No. The cable does not need to be fully inserted into the pipe. Any remaining cable may stay outside the pipe or be wrapped around nearby unheated drain sections for additional freeze protection.
Can the extra cable be wrapped around the pipe?
Yes. Extra cable may be wrapped around nearby exposed or unheated drain sections. This is an intended use of the cable design.
Can the cable overlap itself?
Yes. Because this is a self-regulating heating cable, it may be coiled, spiraled, or overlapped under normal use.
Do not sharply bend, crush, cut, splice, or force the cable into restricted spaces.
Does it need a thermostat?
Not necessarily. The self-regulating cable adjusts heat output automatically based on temperature. However, an external pipe heating thermostat controller may be used to improve energy efficiency and convenience in some applications.
Does the cable turn off automatically?
No. A self-regulating cable reduces heat output as temperature rises, but it does not completely shut off like a thermostat-controlled device.
Can I cut the heating cable to length?
No. Standard retail kits are supplied in fixed lengths. Do not cut, shorten, splice, or modify the heating cable in the field.
Can this be installed outdoors?
It may be used for outdoor drain-line sections when installed according to the manual and with proper weatherproof electrical protection. Outdoor plugs, outlets, and connections must be protected from rain, snow, and standing water according to applicable codes.
What should I do if I am not sure which YeloDeer cable to choose?
Email yelodeer@yelodeer.com with pipe type, pipe diameter, required heating length, application photos, whether the pipe is open or sealed, and whether the line is for condensate, drain, sewer, septic, or potable water.
Our team can help you choose between DrainGuard, heavy-duty sewer pipe heating cable, and potable in-pipe heating cable options.
Related Resources
- For automatic temperature control, use with YeloDeer Pipe Heat Tape Thermostat.
- For sealed sewer or septic pipe applications, choose YeloDeer Heavy-Duty Sewer Pipe Heating Cable.
- For pressurized potable water lines, choose YeloDeer Standard In-Pipe Heating Cable or YeloDeer Y-Fitting In-Pipe Heating Cable.
- For product selection help, contact yelodeer@yelodeer.com with pipe photos, pipe diameter, required length, and application details.
Read the condensate drain selection guide for the complete-kit and DMi + entry-kit options.
Guides
Small Drain Pipe Freeze Protection with a Complete DGK Kit
A drain pipe heating cable kit combines the heating cable with the fittings needed to create its entry point. DrainGuard DGK is the complete option for compatible 1/2 and 3/4 in. non-pressurized drains when a standard kit length fits. Applications include general low-flow drainage, gray-water discharge, equipment drains and condensate drains. Use this guide to check the drain, measure the route and compare the complete kit with a separate DMi cable and entry fittings.
1. Check the Small Drain Pipe and Its Application
DGK helps protect the drainage path inside compatible small non-pressurized drain lines. General drain runs, gray-water discharge and equipment drains may qualify when their pipe size and conditions match the kit. HVAC condensate, furnace, boiler, water-heater, ice-maker and humidifier drains are also common applications. Freezing may occur where a line crosses an exterior wall or passes through an unheated garage, attic, basement edge or crawl space.
Confirm the actual pipe size, material and drainage condition. The kit uses a 3/4 in. Y-fitting and includes the parts for adapting it to 1/2 in. pipe. The supplied fittings are PVC; connections to ABS require an appropriate joining method where permitted. DGK is not intended for pressurized plumbing or potable-water supply lines.
2. Choose the Right Drain Heating Cable Length
Measure from the planned Y-fitting entry point to the farthest freeze-prone section along the cable route. Include cold wall penetrations and other unheated sections, not only the visible outdoor outlet. Confirm the power connection can remain dry and accessible.
Standard DGK kits are offered in 3 W/ft lengths of 5, 10, 20, 30 and 50 ft. Select a finished length that covers the required route. The cable must not be cut or shortened. Follow the installation instructions for cable remaining outside the drain; do not force extra cable into a restricted space.
The complete kit already includes the small entry fittings. You do not need a second small entry kit for the included cable.
3. In-Drain Heating Cable or External Heat Tape?
External heat tape is installed around the outside of a compatible pipe. It can be a practical choice when the freeze-prone section is accessible and can be installed and insulated according to that cable's instructions.
An in-drain heating cable follows the drainage path internally. DGK provides a Y-fitting entry for a compatible small drain, which may help when parts of the route pass through a wall or another area that is difficult to reach from outside. Confirm that the internal route is clear and accessible from the planned entry point.
Internal heating does not correct a blockage, damaged pipe or poor drainage slope. Inspect those conditions before choosing the heating method.
4. What If DGK Does Not Fit the Pipe Size or Required Length?
Use the pipe diameter and finished cable length to choose among these three combinations. All are limited to compatible non-pressurized drains.
| Your installation | Recommended purchase path |
|---|---|
| 1/2 or 3/4 in. pipe; a standard DGK length fits | Complete DGK kit |
| 1, 1-1/4 or 1-1/2 in. pipe requiring a sealed cable entry | DMi cable + large DrainGuard entry kit |
| 1/2 or 3/4 in. pipe; required length is not offered in DGK | DMi cable + small DrainGuard entry kit |
DGK uses the same DMi heating cable. The separate-cable option adds available length and output choices; the entry fittings determine which supported pipe sizes can connect. A different fitting does not increase heating output or provide a water-pressure rating.
5. Plan a Y-Fitting Installation Before Cutting
Check the working clearance and actual fitting assembly before removing a section of drain. Allow enough room to seat the sockets fully, route the cable and inspect the sealing assembly. Rigidly fixed pipe ends may require additional approved repair fittings.
With power disconnected, prepare and deburr the pipe, use the correct joining materials and allow the bonded joints to cure. Install the cable and seal, restore water flow and correct any leaks before connecting power. Maintain normal drainage and required venting. Follow the manuals for the full installation and electrical requirements.
6. Prepare for Winter and Check Existing Freezing Problems
DGK is intended for freeze prevention. If the drain line is already frozen or blocked, restore drainage and inspect the line first. Do not force a cable through an ice blockage, collapsed pipe or unknown route; obtain professional help when the affected section cannot be assessed safely.
Before the cold season, check the cable condition, entry seal, drainage and electrical connections. Suitable pipe insulation can help reduce heat loss when installed according to the product instructions. Self-regulating cable reduces its output as conditions warm but does not automatically turn off; use a compatible controller when automatic on/off control is needed.
Read DrainGuard vs. IPHC-DMi or the condensate drain heating cable and kit selection guide. For selection help, email pipe photos, nominal size, material, required cable length and the freezing location to yelodeer@yelodeer.com.