Pipe heat tracing protects drinking water, drainage, and process pipelines from freezing at low ambient temperatures or maintains media at a defined operating temperature. Electric systems use heating tapes or mats wrapped along or around the pipe. Self-regulating heating cables automatically adjust their output to ambient temperature, preventing overheating. Constant wattage cables provide a defined watt-per-meter output. Medium-based systems use hot water or steam in a parallel companion pipe. Application areas include outdoor drinking water lines, drainage channels, sprinkler systems, and industrial process pipes. Correct sizing, insulation, and thermostatic control are crucial for energy efficiency and reliable frost protection throughout the system.