heat tape problem

[lance]

Is every section of flex-watt cut the same size? (same amount of heat bars?)
Also did you wire them in series or does each one have its own cord?

they are all the same size. each one has its own cord the input has white cords and the output has black one;s.

The dimmer won't be the problem. All it does is restrict the voltage when turned down. All strips will be getting the same voltage. Since all pieces of flexwatt tape is cut to the same length, this shouldn't be an issue either.

Now to what it could be. I would double and triple check each connection. If you have a high resistance connection, you will see a lower temp on that strip. Just because you used a heavy pair of pliers doesn't mean you've made a good connection.

I would like to see each heat tape strip. Many times, the tape is not cut in the proper angle. Depending on the tape, the silver part (which is the conductor) is cut at different angles. If you don't cut between the silver part, you've created a high resistance area and will never get the proper heat output.


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You must cut between the lines (silver part of the flexwatt tape). You cannot cut any part of the lines (silver part of the flexwatt tape). If you do, you have effectively cut off the part that will allow it to work properly.

I hope I was able to explain this so you could understand my desciption.

Good Luck!
Jim Smith

PS Sorry for the poor drawings.

Not exactly sure what you mean on the cut I cut where there is a clear break in the heat tape but the tape has silver the whole way through on it. sorry. Can you maybe explain a little better so I can understand lol.