Header banner
Revain logoHome Page
Phil Casey photo
1 Level
1274 Review
53 Karma

Review on πŸ”₯ Efficient Heating Solution: Easy Clean Water Bowl 9' Heat Cable (Bowl Not Included) by Phil Casey

Revainrating 3 out of 5

So far so good, with some caveats.

Great idea, but some improvements are still needed, both on the installation of the thermal cable and on the bowl itself. The following is intended as a tip for Easy-Clean, as the 'Contact Us' link is on their website only allows very limited input. First the design of the bowl: I highly recommend adding 1/4 to 1/2 inch in height to the bottom of the bowl. , as well as the use of more plastic around the bottom screw fixings of the heating cable. While they haven't failed yet (I just received it today), I note that after the screws are screwed in, there are traces of stress in the fasteners and traces of near-punching in the bowl itself from the tips of the bolts. If the screw caps had a stronger base, they would guide the screws more securely - some self-locking screws would warp slightly when driven in, reducing their grip. The higher base also provides more clearance for the dual heating cable as it exits the valve area. About heating cable: I've used this type of cable before and it works great - when installed correctly. The manufacturer clearly states that the visible black button on the orange segment of the thermostat must be SIDE of the pipe (or hose in this case). However, the image throughout the Easy-Clean literature shows the OUT button. If there is a specific reason for changing the manufacturer's instructions, please state this clearly. As for general installation procedures, if it's already cold outside (like here), I highly recommend doing a proof-of-concept installation - in a heated room. - before placement. Use easily removable temporary tape and do a pre-installation and print/fill test. This allows for easier adjustment if needed if your water pressure requires it (see the easy-clean discussion for adjusting the shim valve). It's easier and cheaper to use painter's tape and a little later you'll be able to fix the cable better. When you are happy with your installation, take it out of the water, place it in the water (if necessary) and dry it. hose/cable carefully. Then use tape (as shown in the picture) to fix the cable properly. While the heating cable manufacturer warns against "insulating the pipe" to avoid overheating, if your pets are fond of scratching/chewing, I recommend wrapping the hose the full length. The cable is assembled with something like self-adhesive silicone tape (you can find it at both electrical and plumbing supplies). While the hose is reinforced, the heating cable is not, and not only does this offer a little more protection, but it also holds the cable securely to the hose without over-insulating it, and is easier and cleaner to remove than electrical, friction, or electrical tape. I'm still testing this and will update this review with my results.

Pros
  • This heating cable is commonly used in various lengths to prevent water pipes from freezing. It connects to a bowl and hose to prevent freezing.
Cons
  • I don't remember