Winterizing Question

Question

I am getting ready for my first winter in my trailer. I am currently living full time in it so that does add some complexity to the effort. I do have an enclosed and heated underbelly, so that helps with most of the issues.
However, I have an exposed line that runs beneath the trailer from the galley grey tank to the main drain valve junction. This is about 12ft of exposed ABS pipe. I will be using the tank so it will have water in it so I am sure that some protection is needed. I am planning to insulate and cover but am not sure about installing some heat tape.
I am in SE New Mexico so expect to have many below freezing nights with a few marginal days included.

So.....what is the consensus? Add heat tape or not?

If so, do you have any preference for the self regulating ones or the thermostat controlled ones?

Thanks for the help.

Terry

old_guy · Answer

if you do decide to add the tape use a short one and do not over lap the tape. you do not need it to be shoulder to shoulder so to speak

dtaylor · Answer

You can also hang a light underneath. A standard light bulb puts off a lot of heat. A simple droplight works great

boogie_4wheel · Answer

Self-regulating tape would be the way to go. Then wrap the pipe with fiberglass insulation, then plastic to keep the insulation dry.

If you are finding it hard to come by a short piece of self-regulating tape, the 'Easy Heat' pre-made stuff is simple (it is thermostat controlled) and can be found at Home Depot/Lowes.

wayneat63044 · Answer

Is the waste gate from grey tank near the tank?  If so, the long run of pipe would be empty and not require heat.

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