greg thanks for your thoughts--my heat tape is not exposed to weather 8-9yrs old. I've been told by my reputable mobile home repair person that put on my insulated siding and who has replaced many a heat tape---not to worry? foremost insurance ,a major insurer, does not recommend a time schedule---o...

I've read somewhere that there is a way to check an UNPLUGGED heat tape with a multi-meter on "ohms" setting. Check by placing probe to each flat prong (resistance?), and then between one flat and ground prong (continuity?). I can't find information now or what READINGS should be for a goo...