Heated Gutters.
Living in Saskatchewan, you've probably experienced the frustration of snow and ice build-up in your gutters. It's such a common problem that it can affect even the best-maintained gutters.
But there is a solution: a heated gutter system. A heated gutter system is made up of a gutter, self-regulating heat tape threaded into your gutters and downspouts, and a thermostat to control the temperature of the heat tape. The heat tape warms the gutter during winter weather to prevent the problems caused by snow and ice build-up. Heated gutter systems are easy to install and maintain, making them a great choice for homeowners who want to protect their homes from potential issues like ice dams.
Why Heated Gutters?
When you are dealing with snow and ice on your roof, there is always the concern of ice dams causing a leak in your roof. The resulting water damage from a roof leak can be detrimental to you and your home. Ice dams can also cause large icicles to form on your roof’s edge above driveways and walkways and create safety hazards during the winter months. In some extreme cases, the added weight of built-up ice and snow can also cause your gutters to pull away from your home, break, or fall completely.
One of the best ways to prevent ice dams from forming on your gutters and causing damage is to add heat tape. Heat tape is a cable added to your gutter system that heats up enough to melt snow and ice but will not cause damage to your home or the surrounding area. Heat tapes are an effective way to clear away snow and ice from your roof so you can enjoy a warm, dry winter. Heat tapes are easy to install and specially designed for gutters. The cable is flexible, durable, and corrosion-resistant, so it will last years with proper maintenance.
Heated gutters systems are a great way to keep your roof and gutters safe and clear of ice. You may have some questions if you're considering getting a heated gutter system. Here are some of the most common ones we hear:
Are Heated Gutters Safe?
The heat tape we use at Gutter 911 has a UV-resistant polyolefin outer jacket, tinned copper braided layer, and a fire-resistant conductive core. Each heating cable also has equipment ground-fault protection circuits to further reduce the danger of fire caused by damage to the heating cable or continuous electrical arcing due to improper installation. Sometimes, a licensed electrician will need to make a final connection. We don't recommend installing a heating cable directly on your roof's surface, as it can be a potential fire hazard.
How Much Electricity Does Heat Tape Use?
The actual electrical usage will vary depending on the length of the cable that is installed. Additionally, the heat tape we use self-regulates its power output in response to changes in environmental conditions. The power output of the heating cable will increase as the temperature decreases when ice or snow is present. As this temperature rises, the heat tape will use less wattage and emit less heat. These self-regulating properties help with energy efficiency and ensure you are not using more power than necessary.
Using Heat Tape To Create A Heated Gutter
When installing heat tape in your gutter system, we must consider a few things. One important aspect is the spacing. This depends on the roof's pitch and the soffit's length.
Once we have determined the correct spacing, we install the heat tape into your gutters and downspouts under your gutter guard system if you have one installed. By using this method, the heat tape will help prevent concerns associated with ice dams.
In most cases, we must install an exterior outlet in the soffit to plug the heating cable into. We also have to consider the amount of electricity the heated cable will use. We usually install an extra breaker for the heat tape in the main electrical panel. Because the heat tape will not always be used, we will install a switch in a convenient location in your home so you can turn the cable on and off when you need to. The switch will have a red light that glows when the heat cables are in use. This light lets you know they are working and reminds you to turn the heating cable off when it is not needed.
Heated Gutters Regina.
If you're looking for a way to keep your gutters clear and ice-free during the winter months, we have the solution! A heated gutter system is a perfect option for any Regina home. Our heated gutter systems are made from durable materials that will last years. They are easy for us to install and require minimal maintenance after installation—just turn them on when it's snowing and enjoy hassle-free winters from now on! Contact Gutter 911 today for your heated gutter system!