Customer: Jay Siemens, avid fisherman, former fishing guide, professional cinematographer
Location: Northern Ontario
Product: 190′ 240V Retro-Line, Thermostat Control, Insulation, Submersible Pump Stand, Submersible Pump Wire
Application: Heated water line from the lake

Background

Living by the lake was a lifelong dream for Jay Siemens, a former fishing guide and professional cinematographer. Over 2 years ago, Jay embarked on this incredible new chapter, embracing the joys of lakeside living. However, like any significant change, it came with challenges. One of the most pressing issues he faced was the threat of a frozen water line from the lake, which he encountered just a few weeks before reaching out to the Heat-Line team.

Lakeside home on a northern Ontario lake

The Challenge

Jay’s lake home utilized a blowback system to draw water from the lake. The system allowed him to enjoy a cost saving, there was no water bill. However, this convenience had its downsides. After experiencing a long stretch of freezing temperatures, Jay found himself without running water for an agonizing 14 days due to a frozen water line.

The blowback system, designed to prevent freezing by periodically clearing the water line, ultimately proved susceptible to failure in extreme cold. Faced with the inconvenience and frustration of living without water, Jay began researching solutions for a heated water line from the lake to prevent a similar situation from occurring again.

The Solution

In his pursuit of a reliable solution, Jay discovered the Retro-Line system by Heat-Line to be a job-ready heated water line from the lake. This innovative product embeds a heated cable directly inside the water line, ensuring it remains thawed even in harsh winter conditions. “This is pretty smart technology,” Jay noted.

The Retro-Line heating cable system seen on its Retro-Reel (lid removed) for easy deployment into existing water pipes.

After comparing several options, Jay appreciated the safety and reliability of Retro-Line over cheaper online alternatives. He was impressed with the reputation of Retro-Line as the most commonly used heated water line system on the lake, further solidifying his decision.

Installation turned out to be straightforward, a key consideration for Jay. “If I can install it, that means it’s pretty simple,” he remarked. He acquired 190 feet of Retro-Line, eager to secure his water supply for the remainder of the winter.

Jay installing the self-regulating heating cable in the water line from the lake

Illustration demonstrating a heated water line from the lake with the Retro-Line in-pipe heating cable system

Results

The installation process was smooth, and upon plugging in the system, the results were immediate. “We got running water, a very happy moment after going 14 days without water,” Jay reflected. The Retro-Line system provided a reliable solution, giving him peace of mind as he enjoyed lakeside living once again. “We’re going to be good for the rest of the winter,” he concluded, grateful to have turned a challenging situation into a successful outcome.

Installing the new heated water line mid-winter in the frozen lake

When the system was first installed, Jay spoke to the immediate impact. Two winters later, he had this to say:
“I’ve now installed (Heat-Line) heat-trace in my home along with 2 rental cabins. Install couldn’t be much easier! Would highly recommend to someone looking for year round running water in the north county, it’s a must have!”

Conclusion

Jay’s experience highlights the critical role that dependable freeze protection systems like Retro-Line can play in ensuring a comfortable lakeside lifestyle with a heated water line from the lake. With winter conditions becoming increasingly unpredictable, investing in reliable solutions helps homeowners avoid significant inconveniences and maintain the joys of living by the water.

Watch Jay and friends install the Retro-Line system here: