You keep a water pipe in the stable frost-free with a frost protection cable: a heating cable that you lay along the pipe and fix with aluminium tape, so the pipe does not freeze or burst in frost. Here you will find these Gobel cables in lengths from 1 to 48 metres, with the matching 50-metre aluminium tape.
Which length and which wattage?
Choose the cable by the length of the section of pipe you want to protect, including taps and bends the cable has to go around. The wattage increases with the length: the cables deliver about 16 watts per metre.
| Cable length | Wattage |
|---|---|
| 1 m | 17 W |
| 4 m | 64 W |
| 12 m | 192 W |
| 24 m | 384 W |
| 48 m | 768 W |
Intermediate sizes are 2, 8, 14, 18 and 37 metres. Rather buy a little too long than too short; the manual explains how to lay any surplus.
Installation in brief
Lay the cable along the underside of the pipe and tape it in place with aluminium tape. This spreads the heat over the pipe. Then insulate the pipe with pipe lagging, because without insulation the heat disappears quickly. For wrapping, crossing and shortening the cable, follow the manufacturer's manual.
Points to note
A frost protection cable needs a power socket, preferably with an RCD and protected against moisture and rodents. It uses electricity as long as it is switched on; switch it off in spring or let it switch via a thermostat if your model supports that. For a frost-free drinking spot for chickens, there are heated drinkers. Other winter supplies are in winter supplies for the stable and all yard equipment under stable and yard.
Frequently asked questions
How long does my frost protection cable need to be?
At least as long as the section of pipe that must stay frost-free, including taps and bends. If in doubt, choose the next size up.
Do I need to insulate the pipe as well?
Yes. The cable provides heat, but without insulation it is lost quickly, especially in an open stable or in the wind.
How much electricity does a frost protection cable use?
About 16 watts per metre while it is heating. A 12-metre cable then uses 192 watts, a 48-metre cable 768 watts.