Heat tape—also known as heat cable or heat trace—is a go-to solution for preventing frozen pipes and ice dams during winter. But how much electricity does it actually use?
In this guide, we’ll break down how many watts heat tape uses per day, how that translates into energy bills, and how to use it more efficiently.
⚙️ What Is Heat Tape?
Heat tape is an electric cable installed along roofs, gutters, or pipes. It generates heat to keep water flowing and prevent freezing. There are two main types:
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Constant-wattage heat tape: Delivers the same wattage regardless of temperature.
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Self-regulating heat tape: Adjusts power output based on surrounding temperature.
⚡ How Many Watts Does Heat Tape Use?
On average, heat tape uses between 6–12 watts per linear foot, with 9 watts/foot being a common rating.
| Type | Typical Wattage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Constant-wattage | 6–12 W/ft | Runs continuously at rated power |
| Self-regulating | Varies (up to 10 W/ft) | More efficient; adjusts based on temp |
🔋 Daily Power Usage Example
Let’s say you have 100 feet of heat tape rated at 9 watts/foot.
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Total wattage: 100 ft × 9 W = 900 watts = 0.9 kW
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Daily usage (24 hours): 0.9 kW × 24 hrs = 21.6 kWh/day
At the average U.S. electricity rate ($0.13/kWh):
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Daily cost: 21.6 kWh × $0.13 = $2.81
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Monthly cost (30 days): ~$84
If you only run it 12 hours/day:
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Energy used: 10.8 kWh/day
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Cost: ~$1.40/day → ~$42/month
📉 How to Reduce Energy Usage
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Use a thermostat or timer
Automatically turn heat tape on when temperatures drop or snow/ice is present. -
Install only where needed
Only cover vulnerable pipes or roof sections. -
Use insulation
Wrapping pipes with foam insulation reduces the amount of heat needed. -
Choose self-regulating cable
While more expensive, it uses less energy over time.
🧮 Quick Formula: Calculate Your Heat Tape Usage
Want to know your own setup’s cost?
Example:
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75 ft × 9 W = 675 W = 0.675 kW
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Run 18 hrs/day → 0.675 × 18 = 12.15 kWh/day
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At $0.12/kWh → 12.15 × 0.12 = $1.46/day
✅ Final Thoughts
Heat tape is a powerful winter tool, but it can drive up energy bills if left on 24/7. Most systems use 19–22 kWh/day for 100 feet, costing around $70–85/month.
To save energy:
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Use timers and thermostats
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Install only where needed
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Insulate well
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Choose smart, self-regulating tape when possible
Want help calculating your specific usage? Drop your numbers in the comments, and I’ll help you figure it out!
