Question 1

What does a heat tape thermostat cord like ThermaCord do?

Accepted Answer

ThermaCord is a smart power cord with a built-in thermostat that automatically turns roof de-icing cables on and off based on temperature. It powers on at 37°F to prevent freezing and shuts off at 50°F to save energy. This keeps your heat tape from running 24/7 when it isn’t needed, lowering your electric bill while keeping your home protected.

Question 2

Will ThermaCord work with any 120v plug-in heat tape system?

Accepted Answer

Yes. ThermaCord works with any plug-in roof de-icing cable or pipe heat cable that plugs into a standard 120V outlet and draws 1500 watts or less. It’s a perfect match for Heat Tape Pro, but also works with most heat tape brands you’ll find at hardware stores.

Question 3

How much can I save on electricity with ThermaCord?

Accepted Answer

Savings vary by climate and electricity rates, but in most cold regions ThermaCord cuts energy use by up to 30-50%, depending on outdoor temperature fluctuations and the duration it’s used. For many homeowners, it pays for itself in the first winter season and then keeps saving money year after year.

Question 4

Can I change the on/off temperature settings?

Accepted Answer

No. ThermaCord is pre-programmed to turn on at 37°F and off at 50°F. These settings are based on decades of ice dam prevention experience to balance maximum protection with maximum energy savings. The fixed settings mean there’s nothing for you to adjust or program.

Question 5

Is ThermaCord safe for outdoor use?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. ThermaCord is outdoor rated, weather resistant, and built to handle snow, rain, and subzero temperatures. The 16-inch cord length gives flexibility for outlet placement while keeping the connection protected.

Question 6

Why not just unplug my heat tape when it’s warm out?

Accepted Answer

You could, but most people forget — and a surprise cold snap could leave your home unprotected. ThermaCord responds automatically, even in the middle of the night, so your roof and gutters are always protected when temperatures drop.

Question 7

Can I use ThermaCord for things other than roof heat cable?

Accepted Answer

Yes. ThermaCord is often used to control livestock water tank heaters, greenhouse heaters, poultry warming lamps and pads and other equipment that benefits from automatic temperature control. As long as the device plugs into a standard 120V outlet and draws under 1500 watts, ThermaCord can control it.

Question 8

How do I know if ThermaCord is working?

Accepted Answer

The ThermaCord comes with indicator lights in both the plug and receptacle. The plug will glow when it's being energized so you know your outlet is working. When the thermostatic switch allows power to the receptacle, the indicator light in the receptacle will glow as well. When the ThermaCord is supplying power to your heat tape it will warm up. If you’re using Heat Tape Pro with GlowCap™ LED end cap, you’ll see the green light illuminate when it’s active. The controller itself operates silently.

Question 9

What kind of warranty comes with ThermaCord?

Accepted Answer

ThermaCord includes a 3-year warranty and is UL approved for safety. It’s engineered to last through years of harsh outdoor use. Since most customers save enough in electricity during the first winter to cover the cost, the warranty gives you extra peace of mind.

Question 10

Do I need an electrician to install ThermaCord?

Accepted Answer

Not at all. Installation takes 30 seconds. Plug ThermaCord into your outlet, then plug your heat tape (or other device) into ThermaCord. That’s it.

Question 11

How quickly can I get ThermaCord?

Accepted Answer

We keep them in stock and ship same day from Minnesota, don’t ‘cha know. (As long as you don’t order it too late in the day, of course). Orders placed over the weekend will ship the next business day.

Question 12

Where can I find the specs on my ThermaCord?

Accepted Answer

Easy. Click here to view the spec sheet.

Question 13

Can ThermaCord be used with pipe heat cables?

Accepted Answer

Yes. ThermaCord is commonly paired with pipe freeze heat cables that don’t already come with built-in thermostats. It automatically powers the cable only when temperatures drop, keeping pipes protected while cutting unnecessary run time.

Question 14

Will ThermaCord work for sump pump discharge lines or condensate drains?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Sump pump and furnace drain lines often freeze in cold climates. Plugging heat tape into ThermaCord ensures those lines stay clear during cold snaps but don’t waste energy during warm spells

Question 15

Can I use ThermaCord with RV or boat water lines?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. ThermaCord works with heat tape applied to RV water hoses, boat shore hoses and other seasonal water lines as long as it draws less than 1500 watts. It’s a simple way to protect your system without having to remember to plug and unplug.

Question 16

How is ThermaCord different from a timer?

Accepted Answer

A timer just turns heat tape on and off at set hours. ThermaCord responds to actual outdoor temperature. That means it turns on during unexpected cold snaps (even in the middle of the night) and stays off when it’s warm, which saves more energy and gives better protection.

Question 17

Is ThermaCord basically an extension cord with a thermostat?

Accepted Answer

Yes, that’s a good way to think of it, but with professional-grade outdoor durability and UL approval. Unlike a basic extension cord, ThermaCord is purpose-built for roof de-icing cable, pipe heat tape and outdoor heating devices.

Question 18

Does ThermaCord work with 240V systems?

Accepted Answer

No. ThermaCord is designed for 120V plug-in devices only. If you need to control a 240V hardwired system, check out our controllers designed for field-assembled Heat Tape Pro spools.

Question 19

Can ThermaCord prevent my heat tape from running all the time?

Accepted Answer

Yes, that’s one of its biggest benefits. Without a controller, plug-in heat tape runs constantly whenever it’s plugged in. ThermaCord only powers the cable when temperatures are between 37°F and 50°F, saving 30–50% in electricity use.

Question 20

Is ThermaCord compatible with GFCI outlets?

Accepted Answer

Yes. ThermaCord is designed to work safely with GFCI-protected outlets, which are required for outdoor use. If your outlet doesn’t have GFCI protection, we recommend upgrading before installation.

Question 21

Can I run multiple heat tape runs on one ThermaCord?

Accepted Answer

We recommend getting one ThermaCord for each heat cable to keep things simple.

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