PT-ECONOMY Frequently Asked Questions

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How long does it take for pipes to unfreeze if heat tape is installed?

Unfortunately there's no set answer for this because it depends on many factors such as the diameter of the pipes, the installation density of the heating cables, the outdoor temperature, the installation of thermal insulation sleeves, etc.

There are too many variables to provide an accurate answer. Even though this product is designed to keep pipes from freezing, it is not designed to thaw pipes. If your pipe has frozen with the heat tape installed and energized, please check the placement of the built-in thermostat and verify that the insulation has been properly installed and waterproofed.
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Can Pipe Freeze Protection be used indoors and outdoors?

Yes, it can be used for both application types to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting during cold weather.
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What is the power output of this self-regulating pipe freeze protection cable?

We sell three different max power outputs: 10W/ft. 8W/ft., and 5W/ft. Because these cables are self-regulating, the actual power output will depend on the temperature (i.e. the lower the temperature, the higher the power output). 
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How does this type of pipe freeze protection cable work?

Self-regulating heating cables, like PRO-Tect: Pipe Freeze Protection cables, use a conductive polymer core, which continually adjusts its heat output.
This is why ­­­­­this type of cable, unlike some heat tapes, won’t burn out if it is wrapped closely together, overlapped, or over-insulated. This also means lower operating costs and increased energy efficiency. 
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How much heat tape for pipes will I need for my project?

The amount of cable needed depends on the size and type of pipe, and on the lowest expected temperature. Once you know the type of pipe (metal or plastic), pipe diameter, length of pipe, and the minimum expected temperature, you can use this form to request a quote. Just follow the instructions on the form to get it back to us. 
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Is the self-regulating pipe freeze protection cable always on? Is there a built-in thermostat?

There is no built-in thermostat, but we do have recommended WarmlyYours controls which will activate the system for continuous operation at 40°F or below. 
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Can the unit interface with BMS? Can it communicate with BACNET or MODBUS?

No, the FPT 130 provides a summary alarm via a dry contact relay. This relay is energized whenever the unit is powered. So, with power off the NC contact is closed, and the NO contact is open. When the unit is powered these are in the opposite state. A fault will de-energize the alarm relay and close the NC contact. This allows for a default, power loss alarm without power.
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Do I have to use insulation when installing self-regulating heat trace cable?

Yes, insulation is highly recommended for use with a pipe freeze protection system for the following reasons:

·      It helps cut down on heat loss from the heated water pipe. 
·      Properly installed insulation helps keep the cable in good contact with the water pipe so that maximum surface area contact is achieved. 
·      While the cable is wet location approved, weatherproofed insulation adds an extra layer of protection. Ideally, the insulation will be nonflammable and waterproofed. 
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How do I attach the heat trace cable to the pipe?

We recommend using a fiberglass-based tape, which is available from WarmlyYours.
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Is there a maximum length for self-regulating pipe freeze protection cables?

Yes, there is a maximum cable length that can be supported. However, this maximum length depends on the cable type (in terms of wattage per linear foot), the cable's voltage, and the ambient starting temperature. You can find out more by referring to the Maximum Length vs. Circuit Breaker Size chart found in the manual. 
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Can I plug self regulating cable into an electrical outlet?

WarmlyYours offers a conversion kit (SR-PLUG-KIT) to enable a plug-in requirement. This kit includes ground fault equipment protection (GFEP). The receptacle must be 120V, grounded, and approved for wet locations if located outside. The self regulating cable must not exceed 140‘ in length.
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Can I use an RTD?

No, the FPT-130 (PT-Economy) is meant to be used with only the supplied thermistor sensor.
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Can pipe heat be installed in walls?

No. Only install pipe heat (heat trace cable) in accessible locations. Do not install this self regulating cable in walls or any place where the cable is hidden. Do not run it through walls, ceilings, or floors. The cable must be installed 10“ away from combustible surfaces, such as wood, and it should not be embedded in insulation or roofing material.
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Can you extend the length of the temperature sensor?

Yes, you can extend the sensor up to 2,000 ft. cable for enhanced installation options
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How do you disable the low temp alarm?
  • Hold down the red TEST/RESET pushbutton for approximately ten seconds.

      - After the first five seconds the unit will go into Manual Mode, energizing the heater cable if it is not all ready energized.

      – After the second five seconds the unit will enter the LOW TEMP blue LED edit mode. This is indicated by the blue LED flashing rapidly. Release the button at this point. (The unit will exit Manual Mode.). 

          Note: The blue LED may flash for a couple of seconds after releasing the red TEST/RESET pushbutton.

          • The blue LED will indicate whether the LOW TEMP Alarm is currently disabled or not.

                – If the blue LED remains on the LOW TEMP Alarm is currently enabled.

                – If the blue LED goes off the LOW TEMP Alarm is currently disabled.

                – To keep the setting as it is wait five seconds and the unit will resume normal operation.

                – To change this setting press the red TEST/RESET pushbutton within five seconds. The new status of this setting will show for three seconds before the unit resumes normal operation.

                     Note: The blue LED will flash rapidly before exiting the LOW TEMP blue LED editing mode and resuming normal operation.
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          Once we installed the Self-Regulating cable and plugged it in, we noticed it was heating. Doesn't this self-regulate and not turn on until is is cold?

          Self-regulating cable heats to the specified watts per linear foot when energized
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          What do the blinking lights mean?
          • POWER indicator – This green LED lit solid indicates that the FPT 130 (PT Economy) is receiving power.

                – Blinking indicates a calibration error.

          • HEAT indicator – This yellow LED lit solid indicates when the heater is energized.

                – Blinking asymmetric (1/2 sec off × 1–1/2 sec on) : Low Current Alarm, heater relay closed.

                – Blinking asymmetric (1/2 sec on × 1–1/2 sec off) : Low Current Alarm, heater relay open.

                – Blinking fast : Stuck relay.

          • LOW TEMP indicator – This blue LED lit solid indicates when the temperature falls to 32 °F (0 °C) for all set-points except the 30 °F (-1.1 °C) set-point. For the 30 °F (-1.1 °C) set-point the LOW TEMP alarm will indicate when the temperature drops to 28 °F (-2.2 °C).

                – Blinking indicates sensor fault.

                – Blinking fast indicates High Temperature alarm.

          • ALARM indicator – This red LED lit solid indicates when there is a high ground fault current.

                – Blinking indicates a GFEP circuit failure (this light will also blink while system is performing a self–test).
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          What is the difference between WarmlyYours Ice Shield and WarmlyYours Pro-Tect self regulating cable?

          Ice Shield is 120V or 240V and outputs 5W/ft, and is designed for roof and gutter deicing.
          PRO-Tect is 120V or 240V and outputs 5W/ft, 8W/ft, or 10W/ft, and is designed for pipe freeze protection.
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          Why is the blue low temp LED on?

          The blue LED lit solid indicates when the temperature falls to 32 °F (0 °C) for all set-points except the 30 °F (-1.1 °C) set-point. For the 30 °F (-1.1 °C) set-point the LOW TEMP alarm will indicate when the temperature drops to 28 °F (-2.2 °C).
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