Some are just better made than others.
How long does roof heat tape last.
12 jan 14 2018 heat tape as any electrical device will last reliably until the operational half life of the element is reached and that will depend on factor of use hours and condition and quality of the heat tape.
There are different brands of heat tape for gutters.
Thus the subjects of temperature safety and performance service life are of real concern in considering heating cable selections.
Most heat tape manufacturers warn that you should replace your heat tapes every 3 years minimum.
Interesting thing the contractor did for this last home he put the heat tape on it was the long metal type he put a loop of the tape up through the skirting i can hold the loop in my fingers to see if it is warm without removing the skirting which has been nice to be able to check so quickly if the tape is functioning on very cold days.
Big box heat tape is disposable plain and simple.
They will last a season or two and cost an arm and a leg to operate during that time.
Roof heat tape quality operating cost paying less will cost you more.
Heat tape has a near constant connection with both water and electricity and usually isn t protected well from the elements.
Of course they all do the same thing.
Some i have used lasted 5 years and other have lasted 20 or more.
It will be recognised that this equates to only 41 days and as such does not sit comfortably when heater longevity is a prime consideration.
Speaking of replacing heat tape only has a 3 year lifespan.
Other noteworthy information about heat tape.