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A．General Information
This guide provides a basis for designing a roof and gutter deicing system. It also covers the installation of Roof
and Gutter De-icing Heating Cables in residential applications. This instruction manual includes information on
testing and periodic maintenance.
How Heating Cable Work
The Problem
Snow and ice melt as a result of either exposure to the sun or from heat rising from the building. As the water
runs into cold gutters and drainpipes, it can refreeze, forming layers of ice. This can create ice dams, resulting in
damaged drains and gutters, and can also result in water seeping between shingles. Eventually, water can seep
into the building at electrical openings or through the roof material. Additionally, icicles may form and
potentially cause injury and damage.
The Solution
A roof and gutter de-icing heating cables system can help prevent ice dams and icicles by maintaining a
continuous path for water to drain from the roof. Ice dams should not form as long as a heated path from the roof
to a safe discharge area is maintained. The roof and gutter de-icing heating cables system can be used on roofs
and valleys and in downspouts and gutters made from many types of standard roofing materials, including metal,
plastic,
asphalted,
and fiberglass shingles.
The roof and gutter de-icing heating cables heating cable is laid in a "zigzag" pattern along the lower edge of the
sloping roof. The heating cable should extend at least 30cm (12in) above the level of the outer building wall, or
15cm (6in) above the snow fence, whichever is higher, and extend down into the gutter. This will ensure a
continuous run-off path for water.
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O
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The cable should only be operated when the outside temperature is between -9
C and 2
C (15
F and 35
F).
The cable can work with an optional power ON/OFF switch or Thermostatically Controlled Adapter which is a
moisture and temperature sensor control that operates the de-icing cable only when moisture is present, and the
temperature drops below freezing.
Caution: In very cold conditions, below -9°C (15°F), the cable may not generate enough heat in some roof
sections to prevent melt water from refreezing.
Heating Cable Application
This cable is designed for installation on inclined roofs with non-combustible tab shingles (such as asphalt
shingles), metal or plastic gutters, downspouts, and valleys providing a clear path for water to drain.
If previous ice dam problems only occurred in the gutters and not on the roof, install the cable in the gutters and
downspouts only.
The cable does not have to be installed on every section of the roof, but only in the places that have been
susceptible to ice dams in the past. However, always install the cable in valleys that problem areas for snow and
ice on the roof.
The marking "WS"
indicates
the Roof and Gutter De-icing Heating Cables system is designed for roof and
gutter de-icing applications and is intended for use in locations where it may be subject to water and sunlight.
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