Install Heat Tape on a Mobile Home
Most mobile home water pipes connect to the water service under the home where air is cold and damp. If these pipes are not heated, they will most likely freeze and break causing damage under the home. In order to prevent frozen water pipes on a mobile home it is important to install heat tape to all exterior pipes and shutoff valves including pipes that run against the wall. The best heat tape to use is automatic heat tape that is run by a thermostat. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Measure all pipes under the home including shutoff valves. If manufacturer's manual for the mobile has the length of heat tape that is required for the home you can eliminate this task.
2. Make sure that all joints are sealed and that there are no water leaks along the pipes under the home. Any leaks will cause damage to the pipe insulation and can short out the heat tape. Make any necessary repairs.
3. Begin by putting the plug next to the outlet. Run the heat tape along the entire length of the freshwater supply pipe. The heat tape can be placed along the side of the pipe or wrapped around the pipe. Use electrical tape to secure the heat tape to the pipe. It is very important that the heat tape does not overlap itself.
4. Wrap pipe insulation or pipe jackets over the entire length of pipe. When this is completed, wrap a waterproof wrapping around the insulation for added protection.
5. Plug the heat tape into a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter receptacle located under the mobile home for this purpose. Since there is a thermostat, the heat tape will come on as necessary.
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