MAXKOSKO Adjustable Thermostat for Pipe Heat Tape, Customizable Temp Control (15ft Sensor)
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Description
Pipe Heating Cable Thermostat Controller with 15 ft Sensor
MAXKOSKO Pipe Heating Cable Thermostat Controller adds automatic temperature control to 110–120V pipe heating cables that do not have a built-in thermostat.
Install the remote temperature sensor against the protected pipe, plug the heating cable into the controller outlet, and select the desired temperature. The controller automatically supplies or stops power according to the measured pipe temperature, helping prevent frozen pipes while reducing unnecessary heating cable operation.
This sensor-controlled plug is designed primarily for external pipe heat tape and in-pipe heating cable systems used for residential and light commercial pipe freeze protection.
Sensor-Controlled Outlet
The heating cable plugs directly into the thermostat-controlled outlet, allowing power to be managed according to the temperature detected by the remote sensor.
15 ft Remote Sensor
The extended sensor wire reaches the protected pipe while allowing the controller and grounded plug to remain near the power outlet.
Adjustable Temperature
Set the controller from 36°F to 86°F (2°C to 30°C) using the digital display and control buttons.
Up to 15A / 1800W
Supports compatible 110–120V heating cables and heating devices with a total load of no more than 15 amps or 1800 watts.
Automatic Energy Management
The controller powers the heating cable only when the sensor temperature requires heat, reducing unnecessary runtime and manual operation.
Power-Outage Memory
After power is restored, the controller retains its previous power status and temperature setting for more reliable unattended freeze protection.
Important Before Ordering
Confirm Compatibility Before Purchase
Controller Only: This product is a plug-in thermostat controller designed to operate a separately installed heating cable or compatible heating device.
Best for Non-Thermostatic Heat Cable: It is primarily intended for pipe heating cables that do not already include automatic temperature control.
Electrical Rating: Use only with 110–120V equipment. The connected load must not exceed 15A or 1800W.
Grounded Outlet Required: The controller uses a three-prong grounded plug and must be connected to a properly grounded electrical outlet.
Sensor Placement Is Essential: The remote sensor must contact the protected pipe or controlled area. It must not touch the heating cable directly.
Not an Ambient-Only Plug: The controller responds to the temperature measured by its wired sensor, so correct sensor placement is required for proper operation.
Ordinary Locations Only: Do not use the controller where gasoline, paint, flammable liquids, or explosive vapors are used or stored.
Specifications
| Product Type | Plug-In Pipe Heating Cable Thermostat Controller |
| Rated Voltage | 110–120V AC |
| Maximum Current | 15A |
| Maximum Load | 1800W |
| Temperature Setting Range | 36°F to 86°F (2°C to 30°C) |
| Sensor Detection Range | -4°F to 122°F (-20°C to 50°C) |
| Default Setting | 41°F (5°C) |
| Switching Differential | Approximately ±3.6°F (±2°C) from the selected temperature |
| Sensor Wire Length | 15 ft |
| Power Cord Length | 3 ft |
| Plug Type | Three-Prong Grounded Plug |
| Temperature Display | Selectable °F or °C |
| Primary Application | Pipe Heating Cable and Heat Tape Temperature Control |
How the Sensor-Controlled Plug Works View Details Hide Details
The remote sensor measures the temperature of the protected pipe or controlled area. The controller then switches power to the connected heating cable according to the selected temperature.
The controller uses an approximately ±3.6°F (±2°C) switching range around the selected temperature. For example, when set to 41°F (5°C), heating starts at approximately 37°F (3°C) and stops at approximately 45°F (7°C).
- Green Indicator: Controller power is on.
- Red Indicator: The connected heating cable is receiving power.
- No Indicator: Controller power is off.
- Temperature Adjustment: Use the up and down buttons to select the desired temperature.
- °F / °C Selection: Press and hold the down button for approximately three seconds to switch units.
Basic Installation Overview View Steps Hide Steps
Install the pipe heating cable completely before connecting it to the thermostat controller. The exact procedure depends on whether the heating cable is installed outside or inside the pipe.
Step 1: Install the Heating Cable
Install the external or in-pipe heating cable according to the heating cable manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 2: Position the Sensor
Place the sensor firmly against the protected pipe and secure it with suitable aluminum foil tape.
Step 3: Add Pipe Insulation
For external heat tape installations, complete the required pipe insulation while keeping the sensor wire separated from the heating cable.
Step 4: Connect the Heat Cable
Plug the heating cable into the controller outlet, then connect the controller to a properly grounded 110–120V outlet.
Step 5: Set the Temperature
Turn on the controller, select the required temperature, and confirm that the indicator lights operate correctly.
Sensor Installation Notes
For In-Pipe Heating Cable: Secure the sensor wire against the bottom exterior surface of the water pipe using aluminum foil tape. The sensor is not inserted into the pipe.
For External Pipe Heat Tape: Route the sensor through an opening in the pipe insulation and position it against the pipe surface.
Avoid Cable Contact: The sensor and sensor wire must not touch the heating cable directly.
Protect the Sensor Wire: Do not kink, crush, staple, clamp, or damage the sensor wire. Sensor damage can cause incorrect temperature control.
Read the Manual: Review the complete installation manual and the heating cable manufacturer’s instructions before installation.
Recommended Applications
This thermostat controller is primarily designed for automatic pipe freeze protection using compatible heating cables without built-in temperature control.
- External pipe heating cable and heat tape
- In-pipe heating cable systems
- Residential water pipe freeze protection
- Basement, crawl-space, garage, cabin, barn, and utility-room pipes
- Irrigation and light commercial water pipe systems
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of heating cable should I use with this controller?
This controller is primarily designed for compatible 110–120V pipe heating cables that do not have a built-in thermostat. The total connected load must not exceed 15A or 1800W.
Does the controller measure room temperature or pipe temperature?
It measures the temperature at the end of the 15 ft wired sensor. For pipe freeze protection, the sensor should be secured directly against the protected pipe rather than left hanging in the surrounding air.
Can the sensor touch the heating cable?
No. The sensor should contact the pipe surface but must not directly touch the heating cable. Direct contact may produce an inaccurate temperature reading and improper controller operation.
Can this controller be used with both external and in-pipe heating cables?
Yes. It can control compatible external and in-pipe heating cable systems. However, the controller and sensor remain outside the pipe, and the installation method varies depending on the heating cable type.
At what temperature does the heating cable turn on and off?
The controller uses an approximately ±3.6°F (±2°C) switching range. When set to 41°F (5°C), for example, heating starts at approximately 37°F (3°C) and stops at approximately 45°F (7°C).
Will the controller restart after a power outage?
The controller retains its previous power status and temperature setting. If it was operating before the outage, it resumes with the same setting after power is restored.
Does this controller replace proper pipe insulation?
No. The thermostat controls power to the heating cable, but proper heating cable installation and suitable pipe insulation are still required for reliable freeze protection.
Guides & Resources
Read the Instructions Before Installation
Correct sensor placement is essential for safe and accurate temperature control. Before connecting power, review the complete thermostat controller manual and the instructions supplied with your pipe heating cable.
- Confirm that the heating cable is rated for 110–120V operation.
- Confirm that the total load is below 15A and 1800W.
- Install the heating cable before connecting it to the controller.
- Secure the sensor against the pipe without allowing it to touch the heating cable.
- Use a properly grounded electrical outlet and follow applicable electrical codes.
Questions & Answers
Have a Question?
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It looks like the actual heat tape is not included, do you sell the tape & how does it plug into this system?
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What happens when the power goes out. Does the controller and the in pipe Maxkoso unit come back on with all the previous settings?
Hi Bill,
Thanks for your question.
Yes, it will. The thermostat remembers both its power status and temperature setting. If it was turned OFF before the outage, it will remain OFF when power is restored. If it was ON, it will automatically resume operation with the same temperature value. This ensures reliable protection even if the power goes out while you’re away, preventing pipes from freezing.