You're definitely onto something with sealing drafts—I did the same thing last winter and noticed a huge improvement. Heat tape seems convenient, but I'm with you...I'd rather not have something electric running nonstop if I can help it.
I've been thinking about heat tape too, but does anyone know how reliable it actually is long-term? I mean, the idea of something electrical wrapped around pipes 24/7 kinda makes me uneasy...maybe I'm just paranoid, haha. Last winter I tried insulating foam sleeves instead—seemed to do the trick, but I'm still skeptical if that's enough during a really brutal cold snap. Has anyone had foam insulation fail on them?
I get the hesitation about heat tape—something electrical wrapped around pipes does seem sketchy long-term. But honestly, foam sleeves alone haven't always cut it for me. Had one burst during a cold snap despite insulation...maybe pairing both methods cautiously is worth considering?
"maybe pairing both methods cautiously is worth considering?"
Yeah, that's exactly what I ended up doing after my first winter scare. Foam sleeves alone were a no-go for me too—had a pipe freeze solid even with insulation. Now I use heat tape underneath the foam sleeves, but I made sure to get the kind with a built-in thermostat and auto shut-off...felt safer that way. Been two winters now without any midnight plumbing drama, knock on wood. Just follow the instructions carefully and keep an eye on it occasionally.
That's pretty much what I recommend too. Foam sleeves alone are usually fine for mild climates, but if you get serious cold snaps, heat tape underneath is a lifesaver. Just make sure you're not overlapping the tape or wrapping it too tightly—leave some breathing room. Also, double-check your GFCI outlets regularly...had a buddy whose heat tape failed because the outlet tripped and he didn't notice. Glad your setup's working smoothly now, midnight plumbing emergencies are no fun at all.
