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Using a roof heating cable is one of the smart ways to melt the ice that is forming on the roof during winter. The main issue is some people do not know how long should roof heating cables be left on. Thus, they choose the conventional way instead of using heating cables on the roof.
You have to know the length of placing the heating cables on the roof which will only be functional during the winter. This cable also has to be uninstalled from the roof when the winter has passed. Here is more information you have to know about it.
Table of Contents
The Length of Installation in General
The installation of roof heating cables is only good during the winter. The cable will not be able to stand at a temperature of more than 30 degrees Celsius. Hence, you have to uninstall them all once the winter has passed to avoid any damage when the winter season is back.
Though it may be difficult for you because you have to install and uninstall the cables, this is still an efficient way to melt the ice and snow on the roof. You do not have to use a shovel to break the ice and climb on the roof. It is safer for the homeowners.
When Will The Heating Cables Be Turned On?
Since it is using electricity, you should install them before the real winter starts but the temperature is not more than 30 degrees Celsius. After that, turn on the cable about 2 hours before the snowdrops. So, the cables will work immediately to melt the snow before forming into ice.
How long should roof heating cables be left on once the cables have turned on? You should let the cables on until there is no more snow on the roof and the snowing has stopped. You can start to turn it on again before another snowdrop. Check the weather forecast for this.
It is better if you choose the cables with a thermostat. It means they will automatically turn on when the snow starts without any plug-in. When it is not needed, the heating cables will last all seasons. It saves a lot of electricity and you do not need to uninstall the cables in other seasons.
Considerations Before Using Heating Cables
There are some considerations before installing the heating cables on the roof. The first one is the area where you install them. The area with long and heavy winters had better install the cables with a thermostat. It prevents homeowners from forgetting to turn on the cables when it is snowing.
The second consideration is the tape quality of the cables. The homeowners should choose the cables that have been listed in laboratories and standardized, so it is safe to use for the sake of safety. The standardized cables are good quality and durable for many times of winter.
How long should roof heating cables be left on will depend on the area you live in and the type of cables you use. Usually, it can be left during all winter and uninstalled after winter. The thermostat cables can be left out all seasons since it is safe during rising temperatures.
