We use heat tape at our cabin in the mountains. That technology ha changed quite a bit over the years. Previously we attached it to the PVC pipe, as Larry said, it actually melted the pipe. We have since changed all that out using PEX now. I installed a new style of heat tape a few years ago, you wrap the pipe with foil, install the heat tape with zip ties, then cover the entire thing with fiberglass insulation. Yes, I believe the possibility of heat issues still exists but the aluminum foil spreads the heat out. This tape comes in various pre-made lengths and includes a thermostat which is said to turn the tape on and off at 34*. No freezing after that.