Best Pipe Heat Cables of 2025

Harry Stack Avatar
Harry Stack
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2025

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Pipe heat cables are an essential tool for those who live in areas with cold climates. These cables are designed to keep pipes from freezing and bursting during the winter months. They work by wrapping around the pipes and providing a steady source of heat to prevent the water from freezing. Pipe heat cables come in various lengths and wattages, making them suitable for use in different pipe sizes and lengths. They are easy to install and can be used in both residential and commercial settings. With their affordability and efficiency, pipe heat cables are a must-have for anyone looking to protect their pipes during the winter season.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Frost King HC3A Automatic Electric Heat Kit Cover #TOP 1
Frost King HC3A Automatic Electric Heat Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.9
HEATIT JHSF 60-feet Pipe Heating Cable Cover #TOP 2
HEATIT JHSF 60-feet Pipe Heating Cable
ftb score rating icon 9.8
VEVOR Self-Regulating Pipe Heating Cable Cover #TOP 3
VEVOR Self-Regulating Pipe Heating Cable
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Pipe Heat Cables

#TOP 1

Frost King HC3A Automatic Electric Heat Kit

HC3A
Black
3-Feet
Frost King HC3A Automatic Electric Heat Kit Cover
Frost King HC3A Automatic Electric Heat Kit Heating Cables, 3 Feet, Black

The Frost King HC3A Automatic Electric Heat Kit is a great solution for keeping water flowing down to temperatures as low as -40 degrees F. It is easy to install and suitable for both metal and plastic water pipes. Customers have found it to be reliable and effective, with some even using it to keep hummingbird feeders from freezing in the winter. The only downside is that the cord from the outlet plug to the temperature sensor is quite short, making it difficult to use in some situations.

What We Like
Easy installation with tape
Effective thawing of frozen pipes
Flexible and adaptable design
Thermostat activates as needed
Durable materials for longevity
What We Don't Like
Confusing instructions for some users
Slow to react to temperature changes
#TOP 2

HEATIT JHSF 60-feet Pipe Heating Cable

3JHSF
3w/ft
60 ft
HEATIT JHSF 60-feet Pipe Heating Cable Cover
HEATIT JHSF 60ft Pipe Heat Cables for Metal And Plastic Home Pipes, Energy-efficient, Self-Regulating Heat Trace Cable for Pipe Freeze Protection, Keeps Water Flowing at -40°F, ETL Listed, 120V

The HEATIT JHSF 60-feet 120V Self Regulating Pre-assembled Pipe Heating Cable is a reliable and easy-to-install solution for protecting plastic and metal water pipes from freezing. With a self-regulating heating cable output that adjusts automatically based on ambient temperature, this cable is suitable for use on pipes up to 2 inches in diameter. The pre-assembled cable comes with a grounded plug with light, built-in thermostat, and instructions for easy installation. The cable is made with tough XLPE inner insulation and weather-resistant PE out jacket, making it suitable for use in harsh environments.

What We Like
Easy installation
No frozen pipes
Reliable in cold temperatures
Good quality cord
Cost-effective plumbing solution
What We Don't Like
Possible lifespan concerns
Requires proactive replacement
#TOP 3

VEVOR Self-Regulating Pipe Heating Cable

Self-Regulating Pipe Heating Cable 18ft
Self-regulating
18 Feet
VEVOR Self-Regulating Pipe Heating Cable Cover
VEVOR Self-Regulating Pipe Heating Cable, 18-feet 5W/ft Heat Tape for Pipes Freeze Protection, Protects PVC Hose, Metal and Plastic Pipe from Freezing, 120V

Protect your pipes from freezing with VEVOR Pipe Heating Cable. This high-quality heating cable has 5 W/ft and rapid heating, which can rise 85℉ in just 5 minutes. With a built-in thermostat, it automatically turns on at 43℉/6℃ and stops working at 55℉/13℃. The 18 ft length and 3 ft power cord allow it to work at long distances and are perfect for plastic hose and metal pipes. Installation is convenient and smooth, with the pre-assembled pipe heat cable that can be installed by spiral, crossing, straight, etc. The VEVOR Pipe Heating Cable is CE-approved and has an IP68 waterproof rate, which assures 3 years' worth of use.

What We Like
Easy installation
Effective in freezing temperatures
Good quality
Great value for money
What We Don't Like
Stiff in cold temperatures
#TOP 4

PowerBear 30ft Pipe Heating Cable

30ft
Black
30 Feet
PowerBear 30ft Pipe Heating Cable Cover
Heat Tape for Water Pipes 30ft, PowerBear Pipe Heating Cable Self-Regulating for Freeze Protection, Heat Trace Cable for Metal And Plastic Home Pipes, Roof, Gutters Deicing, RV Heated Water Hose, 120V

The PowerBear Heat Tape is designed to prevent your pipes from freezing during cold weather. With its advanced self-regulating feature, it automatically turns on when temperatures drop to 37°F, ensuring your pipes stay warm. The built-in thermostat also helps save energy by shutting off at 55°F. Made with durable materials, this tape is both waterproof and safe to use, giving you peace of mind. Installation is a breeze; simply wrap it around your pipes or place it on your roof, plug it in, and you’re done. This makes it ideal for protecting your plumbing system efficiently.

What We Like
Effective heat regulation
Easy to install
Durable and waterproof
Indicator light for power
What We Don't Like
High initial power consumption
#TOP 5

HEATIT HISD 6-feet Pipe Heating Cable

6 ft
6-feet
HEATIT HISD 6-feet Pipe Heating Cable Cover
HEATIT Heating Cable - CSA & ETL Approved, Prevents Pipe Freeze, Keeps Water Flowing, Energy-Efficient, Reliable Performance, Hassle-Free, Durable Heat Tape for Water Pipes HISD 6ft, 7w/ft, 120V

The HEATIT HISD 6-feet Pipe Heating Cable is a pre-assembled, easy to install cable that is both CSA and ETL approved. It is designed to be used with water-filled plastic or metal pipes and features a built-in thermostat to turn the cable on at 37F and off at 50F. The cable is 120 volts and 7 watts/ft and is made with an industrial grade heat shrinkage tube for connection, an inner insulation of tough XLPE, and a weather-resistant PVC outer jacket. Customers have found it to be an effective and energy-saving solution for their pipe-freezing problems.

What We Like
Effective in preventing freezing
Easy installation with insulation
Power indicator for monitoring
Works with various hose types
Good quality and performance
What We Don't Like
Limited lifespan reported
Requires careful thermostat placement
#TOP 6

DEWENWILS 3ft Heat Cable

JHSD-21-1
Black
DEWENWILS 3ft Heat Cable Cover
DEWENWILS 3ft Heat Cable for Pipe Freeze Protection, Snow De-Icing Cable with Build in Thermostat, CSA/ETL Listed

The DEWENWILS Heat Cable is designed to protect your pipes from freezing during winter. It works effectively with various pipe materials, including plastic and metal, ensuring that your water lines remain functional. Installation is a breeze since the cable comes pre-assembled, allowing you to easily trace or spiral it around your pipes. The built-in thermostat monitors the temperature, activating the cable when it drops below 37°F and shutting off above 50°F, which helps save on energy costs. With its heavy-duty construction, this cable is suitable for long-term use, providing peace of mind during the cold months.

What We Like
Effective against freezing temperatures
Easy to install and use
Maintains water flow during storms
Suitable for various applications
Good insulation performance
What We Don't Like
Can get very hot
Requires careful installation
#TOP 7

MAXKOSKO Pipe Heat Cable

heat cable
Blue
30-feet
MAXKOSKO Pipe Heat Cable Cover
MAXKOSKO 30 Ft. 120 V Heat Tape for Water Pipes, Self-Regulating Heating Cable for Metal And Plastic Pipes

The MAXKOSKO Pipe Heat Cable is a self-regulating heat trace cable designed to keep water flowing in metal and plastic pipes at temperatures as low as -40°F. This energy-saving cable is easy to install and can be used for both plastic and metal pipes of up to 2in in diameter. It features a 3ft power cord and a heating cable that varies from 3ft to 160ft long.

What We Like
Effective for preventing freezing
Easy installation process
Good value for the money
Prompt customer support
Works well for various applications
What We Don't Like
Limited effectiveness over long distances
May require additional installation effort
#TOP 8

DEWENWILS 3FT Heat Cable

HPHC03D
Black
DEWENWILS 3FT Heat Cable Cover
DEWENWILS 3FT Water Pipe Heat Cable for Pipe Freeze Protection, 120V Snow Heating De-Icing Cable with Build-in Thermostat, 7W/ft Water Pipe Heat Tape for PVC, Metal and Plastic Pipe, ETL Listed

The DEWENWILS Heat Cable offers reliable freeze protection for your pipes during winter. It features a built-in thermostat that accurately monitors temperatures, activating heating when it drops below 37.4°F and turning off at 50°F, which helps save energy. The heavy-duty construction ensures durability and safety, making it suitable for outdoor use. With its flexible design, installation becomes easier, allowing you to arrange it in straight or spiral patterns around various pipe materials, including PVC and metal. This cable is perfect for keeping your home’s plumbing system in good condition when temperatures plummet.

What We Like
Effective freeze protection
Easy installation
Well made and durable
Thermostat functions properly
Good for short runs
What We Don't Like
Shorter than expected length
Lightweight compared to pricier models
#TOP 9

Cupohus 6FT Heat Tape

Cupohus 6FT Heat Tape Cover
Cupohus Heat Tape for Water Pipes with Thermostat 6FT, Freeze Protection Self-Regulating Heat Trace Cable for Metal, Plastic Home Pipes, Roof and RV

The Cupohus Heat Tape is designed to protect your water pipes from freezing temperatures. It automatically heats the pipes when the water temperature drops below 41°F, ensuring that your water flows smoothly even in extreme cold. This intelligent heating system not only prevents pipe freezing but also helps you save on electricity costs. The device is safe to use, featuring a GFCI power outlet to prevent overheating and short circuits. Installation is straightforward; simply wrap the tape around your pipes and secure it. You can easily test its effectiveness by placing the thermostat in ice water.

What We Like
Easy installation
Effective pipe heating
Convenient delivery service
Multiple uses
Reliable in cold weather
What We Don't Like
Short power cord
Stiff heating cable
#TOP 10

HEATIT HTM Braid Self Regulating heating cable

Without thermostat
100 Feet
HEATIT HTM Braid Self Regulating heating cable Cover
HEATIT Mobile Home 100' Heat Cable HTM Braid Self Regulating heating Tape Water Line Freeze Protection Heat Trace for Water Pipes

HEATIT Self Regulating Cable is a pipe heating cable system designed for mobile homes and other dry applications. It can be used on residential metal or plastic water supply and drain pipes to prevent freezing. The cable has a tinned copper braid as the outer jacket for electrical grounding, and it is ETL approved. The self-regulating feature adjusts the cable output automatically based on the ambient temperature at each point along the cable, making it safe to use. The cable can be used by straight, spiral, and overlap methods, and it comes with additional tools such as high-quality electrician's tape, fiberglass insulation, wire cutters, and screwdrivers. The HEATIT HTM connection kit is necessary for the pipe freeze protection application, which needs to be purchased separately.

What We Like
Effective in extremely cold temperatures
Easy to install and cut
Affordable compared to local stores
Works well under mobile homes
Prevents water line freezing
What We Don't Like
Connector not waterproof
Possible overheating if left on
Buying Guide Image

Selecting the Right Pipe Heat Cables

Introduction

If you live in a region with freezing winter temperatures, you know how important it is to keep your pipes from freezing and bursting. One effective way to do this is by using pipe heat cables, also known as heat trace cables or heat tape. These cables can be wrapped around your pipes and use electricity to generate heat, keeping the water inside at a consistent temperature and preventing it from freezing.

However, not all pipe heat cables are created equal. There are several factors to consider when choosing the right one for your home or business. In this article, we'll go over the different types of pipe heat cables and their features, as well as how to properly install and maintain them.

Types of Pipe Heat Cables

The first thing to consider when choosing pipe heat cables is the type of cable that is best suited for your needs. There are two main types: self-regulating and constant wattage.

Self-regulating cables are designed to automatically adjust their heat output based on the temperature of the surrounding pipes. This means they will only produce as much heat as needed to keep the pipes at a consistent temperature, making them more energy-efficient and cost-effective. These cables are suitable for a wide range of pipe sizes and are generally easier to install, as they do not require any special wiring or thermostats.

Constant wattage cables, on the other hand, produce a fixed amount of heat regardless of the surrounding temperature. This means they are less energy-efficient, but they are better suited for larger pipes or pipes with a high heat loss rate. These cables often require a thermostat or other control system to regulate the heat output and prevent overheating.

Features to Look for in Pipe Heat Cables

In addition to the type of cable, there are several other features to consider when choosing the right pipe heat cables for your needs.

One important factor is the temperature rating of the cables. Make sure to choose cables that are rated for the lowest temperature you expect in your area. For example, if you live in an area with extreme winter temperatures, you'll want to choose cables with a high temperature rating to ensure they can handle the cold.

Another feature to consider is the length of the cables. Most cables come in lengths ranging from 25 feet to 200 feet, so make sure to choose a length that will cover all of your pipes. Keep in mind that longer cables may require more power and may be more expensive to operate.

You should also consider the wattage of the cables. Higher wattage cables will produce more heat, but they may also be more expensive to operate. Make sure to choose a wattage that is appropriate for the size of your pipes and the amount of heat loss you expect.

Installing and Maintaining Pipe Heat Cables

Once you've chosen the right pipe heat cables for your needs, it's important to properly install and maintain them to ensure they are effective.

When installing the cables, make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. This typically involves wrapping the cables around the pipes and securing them in place with cable ties or other fasteners. Some cables may also require the use of a ground wire to ensure proper grounding and prevent electrical shock.

It's also important to make sure the cables are protected from damage. This means avoiding crushing or bending them, and keeping them away from sharp edges or other potential hazards.

Finally, make sure to regularly inspect the cables for any signs of wear or damage. If you notice any issues, be sure to address them promptly to avoid any potential problems.

Conclusion

Pipe heat cables are an effective way to keep your pipes from freezing in cold weather. By choosing the right type and considering important features like temperature rating, length, and wattage, you can find the best pipe heat cables for your specific needs. Proper installation and maintenance is also crucial to ensure the cables are effective and safe to use. By following these tips, you can keep your pipes protected and avoid costly repairs due to freezing and bursting.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How warm do pipe heating cables get?

Pipe heating cables typically reach temperatures between 70 and 100°F when in operation. The temperature may vary depending on the location, whether it's inside or outside. However, these temperatures are generally similar to or lower than the average human body temperature.

2. How long do you leave a heat cable on?

It is recommended to keep the heat cables on until a significant amount of snow melts from your roof. By leaving them on, you can help prevent the formation of ice dams and ensure proper drainage of water from the roof.

3. Which is better heat tape or heat cable?

Both heat tape and heat cable have their advantages. Heat trace cable is somewhat stiff but can be wrapped around pipes and does not shrink. On the other hand, heating tape is extremely flexible, making it better for tight contours and oddly shaped pipes. The choice between the two depends on the specific needs and configuration of your pipes.

4. What is the lifespan of a heat cable?

The lifespan of a heat cable is typically around 2-3 years. However, this can vary depending on how the cables are used and operated. With proper maintenance and usage, their lifespan can be extended. It's important to note that like any electrical system, heat cables can be potentially hazardous if not handled properly.

5. Are heat cables necessary?

Heat cables are beneficial in preventing ice dams and ensuring proper water drainage along the roofline. They melt ice and snow as they fall, preventing the accumulation of ice dams that can lead to water leaks into your home. Using heat cables helps create a channel for water to flow into clean gutters, preventing water backup and potential damage to your home.

Editor's Notes

During our pipe heat cable research, we found 24 pipe heat cable products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 64,387 customer reviews through our big data system to write the pipe heat cables list. We found that most customers choose pipe heat cables with an average price of $20.76.

The pipe heat cables are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of pipe heat cables, including Frost King, HEATIT, VEVOR, PowerBear, DEWENWILS. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Harry Stack Avatar

Harry Stack owns a small hardware store, his career landed him a depth of knowledge in categories such as tools, equipment, machinery and hardware. In his spare time, he usually repairs furniture, safes and appliances, and he knows how to make simple repairs to plumbing or electrical fixtures. His hobbies also include woodworking and fishing.