HOTNEWS

Electric and Hydronic Snow Melting Systems

Spring is here and now is a great time to install a radiant heated snow melting system to prepare for the winter ahead. By installing a system now, rather than during the fall rush, you may receive some added discounts.

There are two types of snow melting systems, and it helps to understand the two technologies. Both electric and hydronic systems provide clean, efficient radiant heat, but one is likely to be more ideal than another for your specific needs.

Heated paver driveway
An electric ClearZone snow melting system installed under pavers for a heated driveway.

Hydronic radiant heat works by heating specialized liquid that consists of water and propylene glycol (anti-freeze). This liquid is circulated though a closed loop of special PEX tubing installed underneath the surface. The PEX tubing is flexible, and can be installed in common applications, including concrete, pavers, and asphalt. The tubing is designed to resist chemicals and corrosion, making it extremely durable and long lasting.

The liquid is heated by a traditional water heater or boiler. Because a boiler can operate on natural gas, hydronic systems have the potential for lower operating costs than electric systems, especially if you are heating a large commercial area. Like electric heated driveways, hydronic systems are triggered by an aerial or in-ground sensor that activates the system when it detects the temperature is at or below the set-point (usually 39°F), and precipitation is present, allowing for automated snow melting to keep driveways and sidewalks clear of snow and ice. When considering a hydronic snow melting system, it’s important to consider that the system requires its own dedicated mechanical room. Hydronic radiant heat systems are considerably more complex than their electric counterparts, and as such, these systems also have a much higher installation cost.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free system for heating a residential driveway, steps, or sidewalk, an electric ClearZone snow melting system may be the right fit for you. Electric snow melting systems have become the most popular choice for homeowners and businesses in recent years. In fact, some contractors estimate that over 90 percent of homeowners choose an electric snow melting system for their needs.

ClearZone electric snowmelt systems heat the driveway or sidewalk with a rugged line-voltage cable that is available in individual lengths or pre-spaced in mats. Depending on the system layout, the heat cable is generally spaced 3 or 4 inches apart. The cable is connected to a power source as well as the aerial or in-ground sensor that triggers the system.

ClearZone heat cable can be installed under any medium, including asphalt, pavers, and concrete. (A special asphalt heating cable is available for installation in hot asphalt applications.) Warmzone ClearZone systems are relatively easy to install. Because of the simple design of the system, and the single-point connection cable, it can be installed quickly and easily.  ClearZone snow melting systems also have one of the fastest response times on the market, and produce 35-50 watts per square foot (depending on your system). Any sidewalk, driveway, or walkway with a ClearZone system will remain clear as soon the snow falls.

Another great advantage of an electric snow melting system is that they require no maintenance. While other radiant heat systems may have moving parts and require maintenance, a Warmzone ClearZone system has no moving parts, making it extremely reliable as well as maintenance free. Electric systems do not require a separate mechanical room like hydronic, making them a good choice for those who may not have extra room. Electric systems also have a lower initial cost than hydronic systems.

Whatever system you choose, an electric or hydronic snow melting system from Warmzone will be carefully designed to meet your specific layout and snow melting needs. Both hydronic and electric radiant heat systems are fully automated, so they only operate when needed. This adds to the efficiency of the systems. A snow melting system can also add value to your home or business and protect you and your driveway from any costly damage – while greatly enhancing safety. Using chemicals and salt can cause damage to your driveways and walkways, as well as surrounding landscapes. A snow melting system is a long term investment in safety and and convenience.

When working with Warmzone, you’ll receive top notch customer service. Every snow melting system from Warmzone is custom designed for you by a design professional, and can be configured in any way. If you would rather heat only high traffic areas, tire tracks, or certain steps or walkways, a Warmzone professional will assure that the system is designed for optimum performance and efficiency.

Free installation training is provided as well as expert technical support if you need. If you’re ready for a snow melting system, or would like assistance in making an informed decision on which system is best for your home, contact a Warmzone professional today at 888-488-9276.

Testimonials

It Works Perfectly!

Dear Warmzone,

Location: Pennsylvania

Solution: ClearZone Heated Driveway

We have had your Warmzone snow melting system in our driveway for three years.  It works completely as advertised.

Because of the steepness of my driveway, it has certainly been a game changer for us.  We have no problems getting in or out.  The system works perfectly.  Feel free to use my recommendation anytime and I am available to answer anyone’s questions.

Robert W.

HOTNEWS

About Radiant Heat

Radiant heat is an amenity that can increase comfort and convenience in any home. With its ever growing popularity, many people are looking to see if radiant heat is a good fit for their home or business. Like any home improvement, there are pros and cons to consider when considering radiant heat.

To understand the pros and cons of radiant heat, it’s important to understand what radiant heat is, and how it works. Radiant heat comes in two forms: hydronic and electric. Hydronic radiant heat sends specially treated hot water through durable Pex tubing underneath the floor. Electric radiant heating systems use a network of conductive material placed underneath the floor to heat the room.

Heat hardwood floors with Warmzone's FilmHeat
Heated hardwood floor with cutaway showing the FilmHeat floor heating element.

Electric radiant heat is becoming an increasingly popular choice. These systems are much easier to install and are ideal for heating specific areas or rooms. Electric floor heating systems generally use a heating cable (off the spool or pre-spaced cable in mats) or thin heating panels. The heating element is connected to a thermostat, and each room or zone can be controlled separately, giving you precise, efficient control over your heating system.

Radiant heat differs from conventional heating because it heats objects (like the floor) as opposed to air. The room warms from the floor up. The floor heat spreads to objects in the room, such as furniture and fixtures, which ultimately provides comforting warmth for the room. This dispersal method allows for consistent heat throughout any room.

A Few Advantages of Radiant Heat

Energy Efficient

Radiant heat is an extremely energy-efficient choice, especially when compared to traditional HVAC systems. All the heating in the home radiates upward from the floor, keeping more of the heat where you need it most. With a radiant heating system, you can lower the temperature by a few degrees and still enjoy a nice warm room, reducing the utility budget. Unlike forced-air systems, there is no hot air being wasted by blowing from vents and rising to the ceiling. Radiant heat systems are also room specific, and there is virtually no wasted energy. Heat transfers efficiently from the floor through to other objects. Each room can be heated according to your precise needs, allowing for even greater savings on monthly utility bills.

Consistent, Even Heating

An HVAC system blows warm air throughout the home, but this warm air doesn’t heat the home uniformly, leaving cold and hot spots. With radiant heat, the heat rises evenly from the flooring, warming the entire room. This uniform heat provides luxurious warmth throughout the room, eliminating cold spots.

Hypoallergenic

Radiant heat is also hypoallergenic. HVAC systems not only blow air, but also blow dust, allergens, and other particles that may be trapped in the ducts. With radiant heat, this is not a concern. This advantage is great for the small children, the elderly, or those who struggle with allergies or other health issues.

Easy Installation

Radiant heat is a great choice for new construction homes or homes undergoing a remodel. Simply purchase a radiant heat system, and install before laying flooring. A professional at Warmzone can help identify the best system and layout for any home’s needs. Electric floor heating systems are also very easy to customize, so they can be installed to heat small rooms and areas if you’re looking to supplement your existing heating system.

RetroHeat installed to heat existing tile floor

If considering radiant heat for an existing home, options like RetroHeat from Warmzone are available to keep installation quick and simple. Many homeowners don’t realize that radiant heat can be installed under existing floors – without the need for major remodeling. If you have asses to the floor joists (through a basement or crawl space), you can install the RetroHeat floor heating system. The thin panels are stapled up between the joists and then batt insulation is stapled up over the heating elements to direct all of the heat upward to warm the floor. This is an affordable option for heating existing floors without the need of replacing or tearing out any flooring. RetroHeat can be installed under almost any existing flooring by accessing the floor joists.

Quiet

Radiant heat systems are not only energy efficient, but also almost completely silent when operating. HVAC systems create noise when turning on and off to regulate temperature, but radiant heat makes no noise at all, making it a great choice for any home.

If you’re wondering what the catch is with radiant heat, here are a few more aspects to consider when before installing a radiant heat system.

Other Considerations

Depending on the system you install, one possible disadvantage is that it may result in some floor build up (raising the floor slightly). Several electric systems cause no floor buildup, but this is not true of all systems. Most radiant heat systems are extremely low profile, so the buildup is virtually unnoticeable. However, it is important for your contractor to know the specifics of the floor heating system you are considering. There are many floor heating options available from Warmzone that cause little or no floor build up, so talk with a Warmzone floor heating expert to learn what options are best for you.

Perhaps the biggest question for home or business owners is how much does radiant heat cost? While the initial cost of radiant heat can seem high, it is a great investment that can save money over the life of any home by reducing utility costs. (Learn more about How Much a Radiant Heated Driveway Costs.)

Radiant heat is also a great way to increase the value of a home. If cost is a concern, radiant heat can also be custom installed to only heat certain rooms that could use some additional heat. A Warmzone customer service professional can help you find the right system to best meet the needs of your household, as well as the budget.

If you have questions and would like to see if radiant heat is right for you, call Warmzone and speak to a customer service professional today at 888.488.9276.

Press Releases

Warmzone Introduces the Labor-Saving EcoTrace™ Single-feed Contactor Panels

Salt Lake City, Utah (PR WEB) February 1, 2021 – Warmzone, a leading provider of interior and exterior radiant heat systems, announces the release of its new EcoTrace™ 100 and 200-amp single-feed snow melting system contactor panels. Lauded by homeowners and industry professionals alike, the single-feed panels offer the potential for significant savings when it comes to the installation of radiant snow melting systems.

The cost-saving benefits of the SF100 and SF200 single-feed panels are realized by dramatically reducing the labor demands during the installation of the system. The industry’s typical contactor panels usually require the electrician to run several circuits from the home’s breaker box to the snow melting system’s contactor panel. This process can take considerable time and materials, adding to the installation cost. However, with the EcoTrace panels electricians need only to route one circuit from the home’s breaker box.

Single-feed contactor panel

The EcoTrace SF100 and SF200 single-feed panels are self-contained with contactors, GFEP protection, and in-line fuses. Instead of running multiple circuits to the contactor panel, the electrician can run a single circuit, thereby saving hours (and possibly days in installation labor for larger systems). The single-feed contactors can also eliminate the need for a sub-panel.

The new EcoTrace panels represent a technological breakthrough to electricians by addressing their age old power-feed concern. The availability of the SF100 and SF200 panels grant homeowners greater flexibility by providing a labor-saving option that was previously unavailable.

“The engineering of these advanced panels is state-of-the-art,” stated Jim Sage, an electrical expert and Warmzone’s senior radiant heat system designer. “The SF100 and SF200 panels were designed to save electricians a lot of time, which can translate into a significant cost savings for homeowners. We’re excited to offer them to our customers.”

To learn more about the EcoTrace single-feed panels, contact a Warmzone representative today at 888.488.9276. Radiant heat professionals are available for free consulting and will be happy to discuss your project.

About WARMZONE

As a leading provider of radiant heat solutions, Warmzone offers one of the largest selections of radiant heat products in the industry. Warmzone also includes professional system design and layout, free installation training and installation support.

Warmzone’s mission is to match each customer’s needs with the finest radiant heating systems available. As an intermediary between project requirements and a variety of system choices, Warmzone offers unbiased, individualized solutions that factor the installation, durability, performance and operational investment as the key criteria of their customers. With a staff of some of the most experienced professionals in the industry Warmzone routinely provides premier radiant heat solutions to customers throughout the United States and Canada. Warmzone is a privately owned and operated business headquartered in Salt Lake City Utah. For more information contact Warmzone at 888.488.9276, or visit us online at www.warmzone.com.

HOTNEWS

Warmzone EcoTrace™ Single-feed Contactor Panels

Introducing the Labor-Saving Contactor Panel Hailed by Electricians

Since the company’s inception, Warmzone has remained committed to finding and developing the latest technology for its customers. Warmzone snow melting systems, heated floors, and roof de-icing solutions feature the most advanced – and proven – controls and heating elements in the industry. In keeping with its pledge to offer customers the widest selection of the best products available, Warmzone has recently added the industry’s most advanced contactor panels for snow melting system applications to its product lineup.

Warmzone now offers the EcoTrace™ 100 and 200-amp single-feed snow melting system contactor panels. Hailed as a breakthrough by electricians and system installers, the single-feed panels offer the potential for significant savings when it comes to the installation of radiant snow melting systems.

The potential cost-saving benefits of the SF100 and SF200 single-feed panels can be realized by the panel’s “single-feed” design, which can dramatically reduce the labor demands during the installation of the snow melting system.

Single-feed contactor panel

The industry’s typical contactor panels usually require the electrician to run several circuits from the home’s breaker box to the snow melting system’s contactor panel. This process can take considerable time and materials, adding to the installation cost. However, with the EcoTrace™ panels electricians need only to route one circuit from the home’s breaker box.

The EcoTrace™ SF100 and SF200 single-feed panels are self-contained with contactors, GFEP protection, and in-line fuses. Instead of running multiple circuits to the contactor panel, the electrician can run a single circuit, thereby saving hours (and possibly days in installation labor for larger systems). The single-feed contactors can also eliminate the need for a sub-panel.

The new EcoTrace™ panels represent a technological breakthrough to electricians by addressing their age old power-feed concern. The SF100 and SF200 offer homeowners greater flexibility by providing a labor-saving option that was previously unavailable.

“The engineering of these advanced panels is state-of-the-art,” stated Jim Sage, an electrical expert and Warmzone’s senior radiant heat system designer. “The SF100 and SF200 panels were designed to save electricians a lot of time, which can translate into a significant cost savings for homeowners. We’re excited to offer them to our customers.”

To learn more about the advanced EcoTrace™ single-feed panels, contact a Warmzone representative today at 888.488.9276. Radiant heat professionals are available for free consulting and will be happy to discuss your project.

About WARMZONE

As a leading provider of radiant heat solutions, Warmzone offers one of the largest selections of radiant heat products in the industry. Warmzone also includes professional system design and layout, free installation training and installation support.

Warmzone’s mission is to match each customer’s needs with the finest radiant heating systems available. As an intermediary between project requirements and a variety of system choices, Warmzone offers unbiased, individualized solutions that factor the installation, durability, performance and operational investment as the key criteria of their customers. With a staff of some of the most experienced professionals in the industry Warmzone routinely provides premier radiant heat solutions to customers throughout the United States and Canada. Warmzone is a privately owned and operated business headquartered in Salt Lake City Utah. For more information contact Warmzone at 888.488.9276, or visit us online at www.warmzone.com.

HOTNEWS

The Surprising Benefits of a Radiant Heated Driveway

Radiant heated driveways offer a range of benefits for home and business owners. Certainly, the most obvious is the elimination of manual snow removal. Instead of donning the coat and gloves to attack a snow-packed driveway first thing in the morning, homeowners can relax with a steaming cup of coffee in the warmth of their home. For business owners nothing beats the feeling of arriving at the facility and seeing the sidewalks, ramps, and/or parking areas completely clear of snow and ice. When you install a radiant snow melting system there’s no need to hire a plowing service or ask employees to come in early to shovel and salt the sidewalks.

Automated snow melting systems operate only when needed. The systems utilize an advanced snow sensor that detects temperature and precipitation. When moisture is detected and the temperature is below the adjustable set point (usually set at 39°F), the sensor signals the controller and power is then sent to the embedded heat cables, warming the driveway as the first snowflakes fall.

Heated driveway with cut out

A radiant heated driveway with cutout showing the embedded heating cables.

The convenience of automated heated driveways can’t be beat, but in addition to not having to shovel, plow, or salt your driveway during the winter, the systems also provide a tremendous safety feature. While heated driveways operate only when snowstorms hit, the systems include an “after run” function that allows the system to remain on for a short period after the storm. This dries the surface to eliminate any melted snow from turning into thin sheets of dangerous “black” ice.

An Added Benefit

Perhaps a surprising benefit of radiant heat is that a snow melting system can extend the life of your driveway. Concrete driveway surfaces tend to last longer when they’re not exposed to sub-zero temperatures. In cold weather climates with ample snowfall, many concrete driveways fall victim to spalling. Concrete is naturally porous, so water from melted snow can seep into every tiny crevice, and refreeze.  The damage can occur when the ice expands. As this process repeats, it is known as spalling, and it can slowly deteriorate the finished driveway surface. Over time, the spalling can eventually lead to cracking in the cement.

While seal coating your driveway is one method for helping to extend your pavement’s life span, for those living in cold climates with abundant snowfall, adding an embedded radiant heat system is also a smart move. You’ll enjoy the convenience and enhanced safety provided by radiant heat, and perhaps you’ll even add a few years to the life of your driveway.

Installing a radiant snow melting system can also boost the equity of your home. It’s not only a labor-saving, safety-enhancing, driveway-protecting tool, it’s also a smart investment. Many upscale homes nowadays feature interior radiant heat (heated floors) as well as a heated driveway. Adding radiant heat to your home will likely increase the resale value of your property.

Take time today to learn more about the benefits of radiant heat. The systems can be easily customized to meet your specific performance needs, as well as your budget. Instead of heating your entire driveway you can install two heated tire tracks (24-inches wide), or if you’re on a tight budget, you can simply heat the area that’s on an incline, or other troublesome spots. The choice is yours and the options are unlimited.

Warmzone includes free installation training as well as technical support and complete system design and layout services. We’re available to your electrician and installers throughout the installation process. Warmzone takes pride in leading the way when it comes to customer service.

Start the year off by learning a little more about radiant heat. Call a friendly Warmzone representative today to discuss your project and the many options that are available. In addition to offering industry-leading snow melting systems, Warmzone also carries the largest selection of radiant floor heating (and roof de-icing) solutions on the market. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have. Call 888.488.9276 today.

HOTNEWS

Clear the Way with ClearZone Snow Melting Systems

Snow melting systems are popular options for both home and business owners in cold weather climates. Warmzone’s ClearZone snow melting systems are energy efficient, and easy to customize and install in almost any area. Each system has a heating element, a contactor panel, and an activation device. These three components work together when cold weather hits to prevent ice and snow buildup. The activation device senses the ambient temperature and precipitation, and when conditions warrant, it triggers the controller and power is sent to the embedded heating cable, ensuring the heated area is clear 24/7. A ClearZone snow melting system will assure that winter is safe and hassle-free for any home.

ClearZone snow melting systems provide many benefits. Not only will driveways and walkways be clear, but time and money can be saved. There is no longer a need to shovel snow or pay to have snow cleared. ClearZone snow melting systems are also fully automated, so they only operate when necessary, and the system is designed so that operates until the snow is cleared. An “after run” function keeps the system on for a short time after a storm to dry the driveway or walks, and then it will shut down. ClearZone systems also have a rapid response time, so it heats the surface quickly to prevent snow from accumulating on the heated area.

Heated paver driveway

ClearZone systems are extremely versatile and can be installed in almost any application and medium. Whether you are looking to heat concrete, under pavers, or bricks, or even freshly poured asphalt, a ClearZone snow melting system is the best option available on the market. With its industry-leading heating elements (available pre-spaced in mats or individual lengths off the spool), ClearZone systems can be custom designed to fit any area, providing endless custom options that allow each customer’s needs to be met. While the most popular choice is often to heat an entire area, custom installations are just as easy. Whether you want to heat two tire tracks, a strip in the middle of the driveway, a high traffic area, or even a small area such as an outdoor kennel, ClearZone snow melting systems can make it happen. Custom ClearZone systems can be installed in both residential and commercial applications. Here are just a few of the applications where ClearZone snow melting systems have been installed:

  • Driveways
  • Sidewalks
  • Outdoor steps
  • Wheelchair ramps
  • Shopping centers/malls
  • Churches
  • Winter resorts
  • Loading docks and ramps
  • Pedestrian bridges
  • Public transit stations
  • Runaway truck ramps

Warmzone also offers industry-leading customer service that includes professional design services that will ensure the system is designed for your specific snow melting needs and budget. Warmzone’s customer service also includes free installation training and installation tech support to assure that each system installation is straightforward and painless.

ClearZone snowmelt systems also offer safety benefits that can’t be beat, especially for business owners. An investment in a ClearZone system can protect customers from wet feet and slipping on ice, and help to protect business owners from costly litigation that can result from onsite injuries. Snow melting systems can also keep truck ramps, loading docks, and other areas of commercial businesses clear of snow and ice, keeping workers safe and assuring that business can continue operating at optimum levels, even when the weather gets cold. Clear walkways will help to keep your business steady and safe during the harsh winter months.

If cost is a concern, ClearZone’s customization options can also accommodate the budget. A radiant heat expert will ensure that the perfect snow melting system is designed to meet snow melting needs in the most efficient way possible. Customers also wonder about operating costs of a snow melting system, but with an automated system operating only when needed, cost remains relatively low. The operating costs of a ClearZone snow melting system are often less than hiring a snow removal service, and 99 percent of energy used goes towards snow melting, making ClearZone systems extremely energy efficient. On average, an 800-square-foot area may be heated for around $3.55 for each hour of continuous operation. (This may vary depending on local utility rates.) Snow melting systems are also easy to install. ClearZone systems have a single-point connection, allowing for them to be installed quicker and cheaper than other available systems―without sacrificing quality. Electric snow melting systems from Warmzone also avoid costly maintenance, as they have no moving parts, making them reliable and virtually maintenance free.

With all the benefits of a ClearZone snow melting system, it’s easy to see why home and business owners choose Warmzone. The perfect system can be designed to meet your snow melting needs and your budget to make sure your winter is easy and hassle free. Warmzone’s experienced system designers will help you find the best products and layout to accommodate your needs, and provide real-time installation support and training. If you are looking for an electrician for your project, Warmzone also maintains relationships with top rated installers all over the country and may be able to recommend a reputable installer in your area. A snow melting system from Warmzone ensures that an affordable, durable, top-of-the-line, energy efficient system will be installed and operating at peak efficiency in no time at all.

If you have questions about customizing a snow melting system for your home or business, call Warmzone today at 888-488-9276.

HOTNEWS

Finding the Ideal Roof De-icing System

Roof de-icing systems are a great investment that can save homes from the damage that melting ice and snow can cause in the cold winter months. If you’ve been considering a de-icing system for your home or business, fall can be the perfect time to get one installed.

Roof de-icing systems can be used to heat your whole roof, but it is more common to heat specific areas. The most common application is heating roof edges, but heating problem areas, roof valleys, or even your gutters and downspouts are also popular options. Heating these areas can prevent ice dams that can be created by warm temperatures in the attic that can cause snow or ice to melt and trickle down the roof. When the cool water hits the freezing eaves, it refreezes, eventually creating a ridge of ice along the roof eave. This causes subsequent runoff to pool behind the ice ridge, and that’s when problems can occur. The water seems into every tiny crevice and when it refreezes, it expands. As this process repeats, the expanding ice can threaten the integrity of the roof. Damage from ice dams can be hazardous and costly to repair, and can also lead to interior water damage inside the home. Radiant roof de-icing systems are proven to prevent ice dams from forming to allow runoff to reach the gutters, helping to prolong the life of your roof.

Roof with ice damage to gutter
Gutter damage caused by heavy ice buildup.

No matter which area of your roof you are looking to heat, don’t forget that a system is only as good as the installation and components that are included. Each Warmzone roof de-icing system consists of the industry’s most advanced and proven components. Warmzone offers multiple options for heating elements that allow you to customize your system to fit the needs of your home or business.

One of the most popular and reliable heating elements available is Warmzone’s self-regulating heat trace cable. RoofHeat self-regulating heat trace cable is an easy to use roof de-icing option that is affordable and great for a wide variety of applications. Self-regulating heat cable has an irradiated conductive core that increases the heat output as temperatures outside drop, and decreases output as temperatures rise. Cable is available in different lengths and can be installed to accommodate just about any configuration, including custom or oddly shaped areas. The cable is UL recognized, flexible, and has an extremely rugged outer jacket of UV stabilized thermoplastic elastomer, making it perfect for harsh outdoor conditions. Self-regulating heat cable from Warmzone also comes with a 10-year manufacturer warranty.

Self-regulating heat cable is the first choice for installing in gutters and downspouts, and can even be used for pipe trace applications to prevent freezing. Installing the heat cable is simple. It is installed in the gutter and into the downspouts, and ended below the frost line. When installing cable on the roof itself, it is attached to the roof with roof clips in a zigzag formation. Installing heat cable in these areas is extremely efficient at providing channels for runoff to prevent ice and snow damage, and the best choice for most customers. Most customers use self-regulating cable to heat roof edges, but it is also effective for keeping roof valleys clear of snow and ice buildup. Self-regulating heat trace cable has been installed in most of the coldest areas of the country, and still remains one of the most efficient and discreet options for gutter trace applications and roof heating today.

Self-regulating heat cable
Self-regulating heat trace cable for roof de-icing applications.

Wamrzone also offers pre-terminated 120V, 6-watt self-regulating heat cable. This option is affordable and convenient, as it comes pre-assembled and can be plugged into a standard outlet. This cable is also available with a GFCI power plug, and comes in 50, 75, or 100-foot lengths. Pre-terminated cable allows for easier installation, as it does not require any special skills or tools. It can be used in almost any application, even industrial environments – including hazardous and corrosive environments.

Another option available from Warmzone is constant wattage cable. This type of cable is a good choice for quick, easy, and general roof de-icing projects, where customization may not be necessary. Constant wattage cable has outstanding electrical and thermal properties, with a parallel heating core that will produce uniform thermal output over its entire length, meaning that the power output remains the same across the whole cable. (It is unaffected by ambient temperature, unlike self-regulating cable.) Constant wattage cable uses a single power point making it easy to configure and install heat tracing systems anywhere. Constant wattage cable comes pre-assembled, and can be installed to eliminate problem spots along your roof edges, gutters, or downspouts. The cable can also be used for pipe freeze prevention, as well as for process heating, and velocity flow control for viscous materials in industrial applications.

If cable isn’t the right option for heating your roof, Warmzone’s low-voltage RoofHeat STEP de-icing system may be the ideal choice. This system also features a self-regulating heating element. This system utilizes a thin polymer element that can be nailed through and cut on site. The semi conductive polymer heating element uses individual control boxes to monitor monitor power and output for each section of roofing. The transformers will step from high voltage to low voltage (60 V or less) to assure safe and efficient performance. The low-voltage element can be safely installed under shingles and metal roofs, and is ideal for heating entire eaves and problem areas.

Warmzone’s versatile self-regulating heat cable is an industry leader that is the perfect choice for most home or business owners. A roof heating professional from Warmzone can help you determine which heating element is best for your particular application, whether you need to heat valleys, edges, downspouts, or even your whole roof. Warmzone professionals provide industry leading customer service, including professional system design, free installation training, and tech support. If you still have questions about roof de-icing systems, contact a Warmzone professional today at 888.488.9276. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have.

HOTNEWS

Heating a Driveway with Limited Power

Zoning Your Driveway Heating System

Radiant heat is one of the most efficient ways to keep any driveway or walkway free of hazardous snow and ice. When considering installing a heated driveway, many wonder if they have enough power to run the radiant heat system. For most situations in homes or businesses, the answer is yes, as most have more than enough amperage to operate an average sized radiant heating system. However, in the cases where amperage may be lower, or the driveway larger, Warmzone has options to ensure that a radiant heat snow melting system can still be installed, and effectively provide the snow melting performance you expect, safely and efficiently.

Heated driveway installation
Zoning is often used to heat large areas that typically require more power.

The first step when purchasing a snow melting system is deciding the area needs to be heated. At Warmzone, professional design services are included top help you. Warmzone representatives can even assist you in determining the square footage of the area you want heated. By using a special software program, they can view your property and help you determine an estimate of the square footage of your driveway. After determining your snow melting needs and available budget, Warmzone designers will design the system that best meets your needs. Each snow melting system is designed according to ASHRAE standards, taking into account the average winter weather conditions in your area. Your system layout will not only include the ideal layout of the system components, but also include all the electrical information necessary for your electrician, such as proper load calculations, breaker sizes, number of breakers, as well as the power requirements of the system.

If you want to get an idea of available amperage in your home, power can be checked by accessing your home’s main breakers. In most homes, there is either a 100 amp, or 200 amp breaker panel. When considering a snow melting system, there are few basic guidelines that homeowners should consider when checking the power in their home. One 30-amp breaker typically supplies enough power to heat a 170-square-foot area. That means to heat a driveway that is 350 square-feet, two 30-amp (or one 60-amp) breakers will be needed. If you have questions, it is always best to have a qualified electrician come out and asses the power at your home.

If the power requirements at your home or business are insufficient, you may still be able to enjoy the benefits of a snow melting system when working with Warmzone. The heated driveway can be designed to use a technique called “zoning”. The principle behind zoning is simple: the area to be heated is divided into zones, and power is sent to each zone separately. For example, if you only had two 30-amp breakers available but wanted to heat your driveway, front sidewalk and parking apron, the snow melting system could be divided into 3 zones. Power would be used to heat each zone separately, thereby optimizing the available power. Warmzone now offers a new sequencer that allows the system to “bounce” power from zone to zone, allowing a large area to be heated almost simultaneously. While this technique requires slightly more time to heat the entire area, it also ensures that snow is melted from the driveway, sidewalk and apron.

Old zoning systems relied on zones being heated separately in their entirety. Separate sensors were installed in each zone to enhance the efficiency of the system, and each zone was prioritized. After zone 1 was cleared, zone 2 would then heat, and then zone 3 would heat, and so on. However, the new sequencer eliminates the need of melting snow from one zone before moving on to melt snow from the next zone. “Pulsing” the power from one zone to another makes the system much more efficient – and gives homeowners with minimal power the opportunity to heat larger areas.

Snow melting system divided into zones for power usage
When faced with a limited power supply, snow melting systems can be installed to heat by zones, shown in this illustration.

Snow melting systems from Warmzone are designed for optimum efficiency and cost-effective operation. Installing a radiant snow melting system is a great investment in your home, and systems typically clear the area during a storm at a cost less than hiring a snow removal service to clear your driveways and walkways. An automated snow melting system can help to ensure safe access to your home or business for years to come.

Zoning is a great way to make your dreams for a safe, efficient snow melting a reality – even when dealing with low amperage. Warmzone’s design professionals will help create the ideal system to operate within the power requirements of your home or business. If you have questions and would like to discuss the options that are available, contact Warmzone today at 888.488.9276.

HOTNEWS

Trusted Floor Heating Options

Warmzone’s Vast Offering of Proven Products is Unmatched

Radiant heat is becoming more popular each day, given its luxurious comfort and remarkable energy efficiency. The versatile heating technology can be used in many applications, whether you are heating your floors, heating a driveway, or melting snow and ice from your roof or gutters. Warmzone offers industry leading products and customer service that make adding radiant heat to any home or business a simple, pain-free process.

Radiant heat differs from traditional forced air heating systems as it heats objects as opposed to air. With radiant heat, the air comes into contact with the heated object, such as the floor, and produces warmth that needs to be experienced to be fully appreciated. The room warms evenly from the floor up, adding to the efficiency while creating a particularly comfortable environment for small children. Using radiant heat to warm your floors helps reduce heat loss and keeps the temperature steady throughout the heated area. Radiant heated floors also offer other benefits. Because there is no blowing air through ducts and dusty vents, the transmission of dust and allergens in the home is greatly reduced.

Dog and cat on warm floor

To achieve this clean, even and efficient heat, all radiant heat systems have three main components. The first component is a heating element. The heating elements can be electric or hydronic (water based), and provide heat to the object they are in contact with. To begin this heating process, the element is triggered by an activation device/thermostat that utilizes either an ambient temperature sensor or an in-floor (embedded) sensor. The thermostat sends power to the heating element to warm the floor.

There are two main types of radiant heat systems – electric and hydronic (water-based systems). Electric systems typically use a thin resistance electric heating cable (the heating element). This cable is typically installed in thinset directly under the flooring, such as tile, vinyl tile, or stone, etc. Hydronic systems use a boiler to heat a mixture of propylene glycol and water, which is then pumped through special PEX tubing. Because of the need for a boiler, manifold and pumps, hydronic systems require a dedicated “mechanical” room for the system, and installation is quite complex.

Warmzone offers a number of radiant heating systems that can be installed in almost any area and medium of flooring in the home. Both electric and hydronic systems are available for floor heating, but electric heating is preferred by most homeowners. Any surface in the home can be heated, but choosing a system that best fits the flooring in the area to be heated is crucial to an efficient and safe heating system. Here is a general outline of different systems that are best suited for specific types of flooring.

ComfortTile floor heating cable and mats

Warmzone’s ComfortTile floor heating system is perhaps the most popular and versatile option for heating floors in your home. The heating element is UL listed single-point connection, twin-conductor cable that is durable, and safety approved for wet locations. ComfortTile cable is flexible and is available on spools or pre-spaced mats. The ComfortTile floor heating system can be used with many mediums. From luxury vinyl tiles, to ceramic tile, marble, or stone, ComfortTile is an option that can be customized for any room, and will heat any flooring efficiently and evenly. If using ComfortTile in areas that may be susceptible to water, a membrane system such as Prodeso can be used to house the cable can be installed underneath the flooring to house the cable and protect the flooring and cable from water, as well as shifting and cracking that can come with tile, marble, or stone.

Beautiful wood floors, whether engineered or hardwood, are also great candidates for radiant heat. When choosing a system for wood floors, make sure to know whether the floor is floating or nailed, to ensure matching it with the right radiant heating system. For floating floors, FilmHeat is the most recommended option. (Low-voltage FloorHeat STEP and FoilHeat are also popular options, with the low-voltage system being particularly effective for heating hardwood floors.) These systems utilize three unique heating elements. The FilmHeat system features a near paper-thin “film” heating element that is laid out directly under flooring. FoilHeat features fluoropolymer insulated heating cables that are sandwiched between reinforced layers of aluminum foil.

Low-voltage FloorHeat STEP utilizes thin, flexible polymer heating panels. All of these systems are proven, and easy to install, and a great value for heating floors. For nailed floors, the FloorHeat STEP low-voltage system is an excellent choice because it requires no floor build-up, and the thin self-regulating polymer heating element can be nailed or stapled through.

Heated hardwood floor in living room.

For laminate flooring there are many proven options. FilmHeat, FloorHeat, and FoilHeat are great choices for laminate, but RetroHeat is also available. RetroHeat’s thin heating element panels feature thin “film” elements like FilmHeat, but this system can be used to add heat to existing flooring. If you can access the floor joists from below, the heating element can be stapled up between the joists so you don’t have to tear out your existing floors. RetroHeat panels can be cut onsite to ensure proper length, and simply nailed or stapled to the underside of the subfloor. Batt insulation is then stapled up over the RetroHeat to direct all the heat upward to warm the floor.

Radiant heat can also be installed in concrete flooring. In-Slab heat cable from Warmzone is a heating cable especially designed for installation into concrete slabs. The cable is secured 1 to 2 inches below the surface. Hydronic heating systems can also be used in concrete, and are ideal for heating larger areas.

With all the options available to heat home flooring from Warmzone, finding the right system for your system is easy. Check out the guidelines below to find out which systems are recommended for your type of flooring.

Floor heating systems chart
Different floor types and the recommended radiant floor heating systems.

Premier Radiant Heat Solutions