Abstract: The device includes a coiled conductor formed of an alloy having a high electrical resistance and has an outer tubular casing of plastic material which is inert to acid or alkaline solutions. A flexible sleeve braided of fibrous glass material is slidably assembled on the coiled wire and the sleeve with coiled wire within is inserted as a subassembly into the outer tubular member to form an assembly for immersion in the liquid to be heated. Opposite ends of the heating cable extend above the liquid for attachment to electrical connections from a source of electrical power. Ground wires may also be provided to permit running of the electrical energy to ground in the event the outer tubular member is ruptured in service. Support rods are usually provided to anchor the cable to the desired configuration when immersed in the liquid to be heated.