Purpose of Heat Wire
Heat wire is an electric heating cable that produces heat, also referred to as heat tape and heat cable. This deicing method is designed to help prevent ice buildup, known as ice dams, from forming on roofs and in gutters and downspouts. When properly installed and operated, this product creates a path for melted snow or ice (“melt water”) to drain from the roof to the ground.
Types of Heat Wire
Standard Heat Wire
Material Details:
Constant Wattage Heating Cable
Not usable on Metal Roofs
Each foot of cable remains unchanged and use the same wattage along the entire length. The consistent heat they give makes this the first ideal answer for homeowners looking for freeze protection.
Premium Heat Wire
Material Details:
Self Regulating Heating Cable
Available for metallic and nonmetallic gutters and downspouts
Normally used for commercial property applications, these wires are designed to increases heat output as temperature decreases and decreases heat output as temperature increases.
Installation Overview
Determine What Areas Need Heat Wire
01.
In general, the cable should be installed on roof areas where ice dams are likely to form. Depending on the exposure to the sun, prevailing wind direction and roof shape, the susceptible area may be the entire roof edge, or it may be specific areas, such as underneath skylights, in roof valleys or around dormers. Cable should also be installed in any nearby gutters, downspouts and/or valleys so that a clear path is provided for melt water to drain.
After you have determined what areas need cable, we will determine the estimated length of cable that you need. An accurate estimate of the cable length you need is important because we cannot change the cable length by cutting, splicing or altering it in any way.
Checking Cable Length
02.
Roof, Gutter & Downspout Inspection
03.
In general, the cable should be installed on roof areas where ice dams are likely to form. Depending on the exposure to the sun, prevailing wind direction and roof shape, the susceptible area may be the entire roof edge, or it may be specific areas, such as underneath skylights, in roof valleys or around dormers. Cable should also be installed in any nearby gutters, downspouts and/or valleys so that a clear path is provided for melt water to drain.
Cable Arrangement
We will consider a design to run the heating cable down the valley. If a valley exists in a problem area of your roof, you must route cable up and back down the valley a minimum of 3 feet.
Electrical Work
Breaker Box Modifications
For 240 Volt cables, the cable is designed to be directly connected into an appropriate electrical outlet box supplied by ground fault protected circuit. Part of our installation process includes our company electrician coming on site to complete the necessary electrical work.
Switch Installation
Since it will be necessary to remove power from the cable from time to time, such as in summer, we always connect the cable to an appropriate double-pole electrical switch.
Operating Heat Wires
Other Best Practices
5Watts/Foot Heat Cables: You should not operate the heat wire in weather conditions under 15F because the heat wire will melt the snow causing water to run and this combined with extreme cold may cause ice dams to form. It is recommend to shut the heat wire off when temperatures get below this temperature.
Serving the Greater Chicagoland Area
Here From Our Satisfied Customers
EXCELLENCE
POSITIVE: Professionalism, Punctuality, Reponsiveness, Value
Great work, fast, and easy! I asked for a gutter cleaning and heard back almost immediately. They came out the next day and even did some minor repair work free of charge. Highly recommend!
TRUST
POSITIVE: Professionalism, Punctuality, Reponsiveness, Value
Our gutters were in bad shape. These guys could fix the problem, clean the gutters, and take care of an animal opening we had on the roof. I am happy with their provided service and will use them in the future.
INTEGRITY
POSITIVE: Professionalism, Punctuality, Reponsiveness, Value
Guaranteed Gutters lives up to their name with a commitment to customer service in everything they do. They’re quick to answer calls, show up when scheduled, provide photo documentation and are easy to communicate with on-site regarding the job. Their free roof inspection is an added value. This is a far superior service compared to others I’ve contacted.
FAQ
What are the benefits of installing heat wire?
Do you install the heat wires on the roof?
How does the electrical hook-up work?
How much electricity does it use?
Can I install the Heat Wires while using Gutter Guards?
We strongly recommend it because it does serve as a protectant for your heat wire, makes it more efficient and it also can serve to create a heat pocket.