Heat Tape

Redline Science Heat Tape and related hardware for DIY applications

Notes on ordering heat tape: 

• The quantity specified is in feet.  Heat tape is sold by the foot only.
• Because of the how this element is manufactured the length can vary by +/- 1/4" PER FOOT.  Generally it is less than that but ORDER EXTRA.
• Heat tape use requires a thermostat.  Ask for recommendations if you have questions
• No warranty is offered on heat tape by RBI or the manufacturer.  The end user is responsible for all installations and use
• Please read our Heat Tape FAQ and DIY Heat Tape Connections in the Resources section for more information
• Please read the Heat Tape Usage Guidelines at the bottom of this page!

Redline Science Heat Tape Usage Guidelines

Thank you for choosing THG Heat Tape!  Like any heating product safety and proper usage is very important.  Due to the nature of this product and the many different DIY installations there are some very important guidelines that should be followed and these can be applied to most types of installations.

If you need more information or have specific questions please do not hesitate to contact THG at sales@thgheat.com 

1.  Element should never have power applied while it is rolled (even the smallest amount) or overlapping other element.  This is very critical and can lead to immediate or future failure.  An unsafe buildup of heat will quickly occur in any area of contact! 

2.  Never use element on carpeting or other similar surface, even with a thermostat!  There must always be at least a small (1/8" or more) air gap on at least one side of the element.  An unsafe buildup of heat can occur causing pre mature product failure.  Avoid using element under layers of material more than 1/2" thick including cage substrate. 

3.  Element should always be regulated with a thermostat.  Under no circumstances should element be used unregulated and plugged directly into a power source.  Try to locate the probe at the hottest area of element whenever possible (ex. on the element under the tub or enclosure).

4.  It is important that the element be regularly inspected and that no part of the element be over 105° F and element is lying flat and smooth.  Pay special attention to areas of element underneath objects where heat can build up to levels higher than areas exposed to the air.  An example of this would be underneath tubs in reptile racks or under caging, seed flats, etc.  This is very important for safe and continuous use of heat tape.

5.  Do not mix sizes or wattages of element on one thermostat or thermostat zone. This will produce haphazard and possibly dangerous results for you and your animals

6. If using element in contact with any metal surface, the metal surface must be grounded.  A shock hazard can exist as well as the possibility of induced voltage.  If using metallic (aluminum) tape to fasten element do not overlap any of the electrical areas in the element- black conductive bars or copper buss bars.