How Do I Install My Teflon Tape / Heat Strip?

Heat-seal vacuum sealers “remove the air, then use heat to seal the bag permanently closed” [1], so a properly functioning sealing strip is essential.

Over time, the heat tape (also called sealing tape or Teflon tape) can wear out, causing weak or inconsistent seals. Replacing it is a simple process and can often restore your machine’s sealing performance.

Important: This fix only applies to issues caused by worn or damaged heat tape. If the heating element itself is defective, it typically cannot be repaired on most consumer-grade machines.

Tips for Best Results

Replace heat tape when you notice incomplete seals or burn marks
A clean, properly installed strip ensures consistent sealing

How Do I Know If It’s the Heat Tape or the Heating Element?

Great question! Not all sealing problems are caused by worn heat tape. Here’s how to tell the difference:

Signs It’s the Heat Tape

Seals are inconsistent across the strip (some parts seal, others don’t)
You see visible wear, bubbling, or damage on the tape
Seals improve temporarily when you adjust bag placement
You’re getting weak seals, but the machine still heats

Signs It May Be the Heating Element

The machine runs, but the sealing bar never gets warm
The seal line is missing across the entire bag
The wire underneath appears broken or warped, or not heating evenly

If the heating element is not functioning, replacing the tape will not resolve the issue. Unfortunately most consumer-grade machines are not designed for heating element repair. If you bought you machine from OutOfAir, please contact us.

Other Common Sealing Issues to Rule Out

Before replacing anything, make sure:

The sealing area: tape, the rubber profile that pushes down on the bag, and that the bags themselves are clean, dry, and wrinkle-free.
The machine is able to properly remove air

Before You Start

Make sure the machine is unplugged and completely cool
Open the lid and locate the sealing strip (the long strip where the bag is sealed)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Remove the Old Heat Tape

Carefully peel back the existing heat tape from the sealing strip.

If adhesive residue remains, gently clean the surface so the new tape can stick properly
Avoid damaging the heating wire underneath

2. Inspect the Heating Element

Before installing new tape, check that the heating wire is:

Straight and centered
Free of damage or breaks

If the wire is damaged, replacing the tape alone will not fix sealing issues.

3. Apply the New Heat Tape

Place the new tape directly over the heating element.

Start at one end and press it down firmly as you go
Keep the tape straight and centered along the strip
Smooth it out to avoid wrinkles or air bubbles

4. Secure and Test

Once installed:

Close the lid and press lightly to ensure proper placement
Plug the machine back in and run a test seal