What is a Heat Tape (Heat Cable)?

Full definition

Heat tape (also called heat cable or heat trace) is a self-regulating electric cable that runs along the inside bottom of gutters and inside downspouts. It heats up when temperatures drop and prevents ice from forming, keeping a drainage channel open even when surrounding ice forms on the roof.

Cost: $300-$800 installed for a typical KC home. Operating cost: $20-$40/month December-February. Worth it for homes with chronic ice-dam problems.

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