120v Ground Fault Protected Plug

Name: 120V Heat Cable GFCI Plug – Ground Fault Protection
SKU: 0401
Price: 75.60 USD
Availability: InStock

$75.60

120V GFEP “PLUG-IN” POWER CONNECTION

This 120V heat cable GFCI plug provides ground fault protection for safe operation of pipe and roof deicing systems.

(Integrated 30mA Ground-Fault Equipment Protection)

The Easiest Way to Power Your System.

No electrician? No problem. The 120V GFEP Protected Plug is the ultimate solution for DIYers who need to add a heat cable system without hiring an electrician to swap a breaker. We’ve taken the complex safety requirements of the National Electric Code (NEC) and built them directly into the head of the power cord.

WHEN TO USE THIS PLUG

Understanding the “Hierarchy of Protection” At Wasatch Heat Cable, we believe in doing things the right way.

Primary Recommendation: We always recommend installing a GFEP Circuit Breaker at the panel or using a GFEP Controller as your first source of protection. This is the most robust method.
The Alternative: However, we know that upgrading an old electrical panel or running new conduit isn’t always possible. When a GFEP cannot be applied at the breaker or controller, this plug should be added as the alternative. It provides the mandatory safety and code compliance in a simple, plug-and-play format.

⚠️ CRITICAL INSTALLATION WARNING

DO NOT “STACK” GFI PROTECTION. Most outdoor outlets are already GFCI protected (the ones with the “Test” and “Reset” buttons on the face). You cannot plug this GFEP plug into an existing GFCI outlet.

The Conflict: When you insert a GFEP plug into a GFCI outlet, the two safety devices “fight” each other to monitor the current.
The Result: Most of the time, this conflict will cause a nuisance trip at the circuit breaker or the outlet itself, shutting off your heat cable.
The Fix: This plug must be used on a standard (non-GFI) outlet. If your outdoor outlet is a GFCI, you will likely need to replace the receptacle with a standard outlet (since the protection is now in the plug) or hardwire the system.

THE “30mA” SECRET (Why standard protection trips)

Eric Wimmer explains: “A lot of people try to use standard 5mA Ground Fault protection (like a bathroom outlet) for heat cable, only to have it trip the second they turn it on.

The Reason: Heat cable acts like a capacitor. When the system is initially energized, the cable consumes power and momentarily holds it, creating a slight delay before the return load balances out. A sensitive 5mA breaker detects this temporary imbalance as a ‘leak’ and trips immediately.

The Solution: This plug is rated at 30mA—the code-required ‘Sweet Spot.’ It is designed to ride out that initial capacitive surge without nuisance tripping, ensuring your system runs reliably while still protecting the equipment.”

🔥 PRO-TIPS FROM THE FIELD

The “Test” Button: Just like your bathroom outlet, this plug has TEST and RESET buttons. We recommend pressing the TEST button at the start of every winter season to ensure the safety mechanism is active.
The “Drip Loop”: When plugging this in, always leave a small loop of cord hanging below the outlet. This ensures water runs down the cord and drips off the bottom, rather than running right into the receptacle.

⚠️ COMPATIBILITY WARNINGS

120V ONLY: This plug is designed strictly for 120V applications. Do not attempt to adapt this to a 240V outlet.
NO EXTENSION CORDS: This device must be plugged directly into a wall receptacle. Using an extension cord adds resistance that can overheat the circuit and create a fire hazard.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Drexan MultiTrace® Self-Regulating Cable (The gold standard for longevity)
Factory-Terminated Power Plug (Grounded & Lighted) OR
GFEP Factory-Terminated Power Plug (Grounded & Not lighted)

OTHER MATERIALS NEEDED:

Aluminum Roof Clips: These corrosion-resistant clips are designed to hold the cable firmly in the “zig-zag” pattern on both asphalt shingles and metal roofs. Click Here
M-1 Structural Adhesive: This is the only glue we trust. Unlike silicone that peels off in a year, M-1 creates a permanent chemical bond (up to 400 PSI) that cures even in damp or cold conditions. Requires a caulk gun. Click Here

How many Clips & Glue do I need? For a standard zig-zag or valley installation, a good starting point is to estimate 1 clip for every 24 inches (2 feet) of run.

Note: This is an approximation based on typical roof layouts. Every project is unique, so don’t stress about getting the number perfect—you can always purchase extra clips or tubes of M-1 adhesive later if you find you need tighter spacing.

WHY CHOOSE A Heatcable.com ‘N’ PLAY KIT?

Skip the Electrician: No hard-wiring required. These kits come with a pre-terminated, grounded power plug. Just mount the cable and plug it in.
Instant Visual Check: The integrated Lighted Plug gives you instant peace of mind. One look tells you the system is powered up and melting snow. (Note: Actual plug brightness and color may vary).

VOLTAGE MISMATCH

WHY 120V MATTERS. DO NOT PLUG THIS 120V KIT INTO A 240V POWER SOURCE. HERE IS WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU DO:

The “Fixed Resistance” Danger: Old-school cables have a fixed resistance. If you double the voltage (by plugging into 240V), they get hotter and hotter until they burn themselves out or start a fire.
The Drexan Difference (Fail-Safe): Our self-regulating cable is smarter. If you hit it with 240V, it tries to generate 4x the power. However, because it is self-regulating, it senses that massive heat spike and fights to regulate it downward.
The Result: The cable wins the safety battle, but loses the war. The internal core is pushed beyond its limit trying to keep you safe. Instead of catching fire, it will simply “fail cold”—meaning the core degrades and will permanently stop producing heat.
Bottom Line: Plugging this kit into 240V won’t burn down your house, but it will ruin your cable and void the manufacturer warranty.

⚠️ CRITICAL WARNING

It is recommended not to cut this cable. If a qualified technician cuts or modifies the cable for any reason, the warranty from Heatcable.com is immediately void. In this instance, the responsibility of the warranty falls entirely on the qualified technician performing the work. If you have excess cable, instead of cutting it, we recommend doubling it back into the gutter or downspout to increase melting power in that area.

Code Compliance: Installation must strictly adhere to all applicable state and local electrical codes. We recommend consulting with a licensed electrician or your local building authority to ensure full compliance.

⚠️ INSTALLATION WARNING

Must be installed by a Qualified Electrician. To maintain the UL 508A Certification and ensuring the GFEP functions correctly, all input and output wiring must adhere to local, state, and national electrical codes.

✅ COMPATIBILITY CHECKLIST

Before you buy, confirm this kit fits your home:

Voltage: 120V standard outlet (Verify your power outlet is 120V, not 240V).
Gutter Type: Safe for Aluminum, Steel, and Copper gutters/downspouts.
Outlet Proximity: Measure the distance from your roof edge to the outlet. You cannot use an extension cord. Ensure the kit length + lead is sufficient to reach the power source directly.

❌ INCOMPATIBLE / DANGER

To prevent fire, shock, or system failure, AVOID the following:

NO EXTENSION CORDS: Never plug this kit into an extension cord. The resistance can cause overheating and fire. It must be plugged directly into a wall receptacle or controller.
NO BURIED CABLE: Do not install this cable inside walls, under shingles, or buried in building insulation. The cable can be installed under our Patented Thermal Cartridge System.
NO COILING: While Drexan cable is self-regulating, do not leave the cable coiled up in a tight spool while powered on. Unspool the cable completely before plugging it in to test.

⛑️ Important Safety & Specs:

GFEP Protection: Safety is non-negotiable. If you do not select a kit with a built-in GFEP plug, the device must be used with a Ground-Fault Equipment Protected (GFEP) circuit.
System Compatibility: The GFEP can also be applied in a custom or standard controller box, provided the controller already includes a GFEP component.
Factory-Built Confidence: We don’t outsource our quality. These are assembled right here in Utah by pros who know winter.

TOOLS & TIPS

Caulk Gun: Required for applying the M-1 Structural Adhesive. (We recommend a high-ratio “dripless” gun for easier application in cold weather).
Extension Ladder: To safely access your roofline.
Clean Rags & Isopropyl Alcohol: Essential for cleaning smooth surface areas—such as membrane and metal roofs—where clips will be glued. Any dust or grime left on the surface will cause the adhesive to fail.
Light Duty Brush: Essential for brushing away loose granules and debris on asphalt shingle roofs before installing clips.
Measuring Tape: To ensure consistent spacing for your “zig-zag” pattern.
Pliers: Helpful for crimping the roof clips slightly if needed for a tighter hold on the cable.

🔥 PRO-TIPS FROM THE FIELD

Don’t just install it—install it like a pro.

The “Hershey Kiss” Method: When using the M-1 glue, don’t smear it flat like paint. Apply a nickel-sized dollop (shaped like a Hershey Kiss) under the clip. Press the clip down until glue pushes through the holes, but leave a layer of adhesive between the clip and the roof. This creates a chemical bond that lasts for decades.
Create the “Melt Channel”: Remember, the cable doesn’t melt the whole roof; it creates a path for water to escape. Ensure your cable extends past the roof edge (1 inches or more) over the gutter to prevent an ice dam from forming right at the lip.
Check Your GFEP: If you aren’t buying the GFEP plug option, you must plug this into an outlet protected by a GFEP breaker. We recommend testing the breaker before every winter season. Note: Your GFEP may also be in your controller.
The “Drip Loop”: When plugging the unit in, make sure there is a small loop in the power cord below the outlet. This prevents water from running down the cord and directly into your electrical socket.

Our Guarantee

We stand behind our craftsmanship. Every Plug ‘N’ Play kit is backed by an unbeatable 10-Year Limited Warranty. We build them to last, so you can sleep soundly while the snow melts.

NEED HELP WITH LAYOUT?

Check out our “Diagrams & Layouts” page or watch Eric’s latest tutorial to see exactly how to space your clips and apply M-1 glue for a leak-free install. – Coming Soon!

Please consult the Drexan MultiTrace spec sheet for circuit capacities. Because this item is built to your unique specifications, returns are subject to a 25% restocking fee plus return shipping costs.