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What Makes the Best Heated Driveways?

Warmzone Heated Driveways – The Industry’s Top Snow Melting Systems from top to Bottom

What are heated driveways and how are they installed? How do snow melting systems work, and do they require any maintenance? How versatile are heated driveways in terms of custom installations and different mediums?

Radiant heated driveway in Colorado.

Heated driveways utilize radiant heat through a series of heating elements embedded in the driveway that warm the surface and prevent snow and ice buildup. The two basic types of radiant heat technologies are electric radiant heat and hydronic heat. Both technologies can be used in a variety of snowmelt applications, ranging from heated driveways, sidewalks and ramps to loading docks, bridges, and even on ship decks.

Warmzone electric heated driveways are maintenance free and fully automated. These snowmelt systems can be installed in virtually any typical medium, including concrete, asphalt and pavers.

Snow Melting System Components
Electric heated driveways utilize three major system components: The heating element, an activation device, and controller/control unit. What makes Warmzone snow melting systems an industry leader is the uncompromising quality of each component.

The Heating Element
Warmzone’s ClearZone heat cable is a rugged, industry recognized cable that is easy to customize and install. The cable can withstand the stress of fresh concrete pours as well as the extreme temperature of hot asphalt installations. The ClearZone cable is UL listed and consists of a twin conductor with FEP/XLPE insulation, polyolefin jacketing (providing flexibility and UV protection). The heat cable is rated at 220°F and has a minimum 10-year warranty. Given its durability and reliability, ClearZone heat cable is a favorite among construction professionals.

The Activation Device
Warmzone snow melting systems use either an aerial-mount or pavement-mount activation device (snow sensor). When the snow sensor detects precipitation and temperatures are below a set point (usually 39°F), it signals the controller to activate the system. Warmzone offers several types of snow sensors to meet the specific demands of your project. The aerial snow sensors feature adjustable temperature trigger points, adjustable delay off cycles, and upgradeable remote activation. The activation device is also smart system compatible.

The pavement-mounted snow sensor is mounted directly in the driveway or sidewalk being heated. These sensors are typically used in large commercial applications, while most residential snow melting systems feature an aerial-mount activation device.

Master Controller
The Warmzone snowmelt control unit used with the pavement mount snow sensors are small, NEMA 1, wall-mounted control panels. These efficient controllers are approximately 6×3.5 inches. The units have even been designed so that they can be controlled from an external signal (day/week timer, GSM-module or other signal source). The compact snow melting control unit can be switched on/off (standby) and the heating system can be manually turned on in case wind causes snow drifts or ice forms in the shade.

Contact a radiant heat professional at Warmzone today (888.488.9276). Warmzone also offers free installation training. For more information about our training courses, call us at 801.948.7545.

The Ultimate Thermostat for Radiant Floor Heating

Warmzone’s Touch Thermostat for Radiant Heated Floors
Warmzone offers a wide variety of floor heating solutions. Unlike many providers, Warmzone manufactures its own premier products and carries industry leading solutions from other top manufacturers. In addition to providing premier floor heating elements, Warmzone also offers the most reputable system controllers and thermostats, including the latest, state-of-the-art WIFI Touch Thermostat.
THERMOSTAT FEATURES
• Sleek design and intuitive control designed for easy installation.
• 3.5-inch color screen with easy interactive touch control
• New easy scheduling method and even easier on the fly changes
• Track power consumption and save it to a PC with a few simple steps
• Thermostat settings can be exported to web page for support
• Universal compatibility with existing floor heating sensors.
• Suitable for tile, stone, laminate, concrete and wooden floor
• 5-year battery backup of clock and calendar

Radiant floor heating thermostat

Smart Interaction
Thermostat use based on a touch color screen is smart and easy. An entire screen is designed for every action, and therefore programming, schedule override or setting up becomes much easier for both installer and end user.

Smooth Programming
Thermostat programming is now based on 6-event days copying one day schedule to any other day with a single operation. Any schedule override is just a touch away – until the next event, for a number of hours or days, in the future, or until next time you change your mind. The thermostat is delivered with a default schedule.

Power Logging
Follow the thermostat power consumption in the energy log. Logging of the last 24 hours is saved in high resolution, but logging history is also stored in the thermostat. Power logging is easily stored to your computer by use of our QR technology.

QR Code Provides Revolutionary Support
The thermostat settings and energy log can be monitored on any device with web access. Just scan the QR code from the thermostat and view the data on a web site. The new, smart and interactive manual details what you can do with the thermostat. The QR code can also be forwarded to a supporter, shortening downtime used on “what is” explanations and jumping directly to “what to do” time.

Easy Installation
Connect the wires, turn on the power and follow the wizard. There is no need to remember special settings, the thermostat pre-sets the installer wizard and the user wizard ensures a fast and smooth process. Thus, no unintended heating before you are ready.

Control the Power
By default, the thermostat controls ambient temperature and protects the floor from overheating. The default floor sensor can be replaced by any floor sensor. The floor protection fits laminate/wood, tile and concrete for whenever lower maximum temperature is required. You can conveniently program the heat to turn on and off at specific times to accommodate your schedule.

Call Warmzone today and install your system with confidence.
To learn more, call 888.488.9276 today.

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Winter in Philadelphia

Given Philadelphia’s typical winter weather, the city boasts an “army” of snow removal personnel and equipment. Commuters depend on this army to keep roads clear so they can travel to and from work, but homeowners also have the responsibility to do their share of snow removal.

The City Ordinances regarding snow removal in Philadelphia read:
(1) The owner, agent and tenants of any building or premises shall clear a path of not less than 36 inches in width on all sidewalks abutting the building or premises within 6 hours after the snow has ceased to fall. The path shall be thoroughly cleared of snow and ice. Where the width of any pavement measured from the property line to the curb is less than 3 feet, the path cleared may be only 12-inches in width. When the building in question is a multifamily dwelling the owner or his agent shall be responsible for compliance with the requirements of this Section. 160 Amended, Bill No. 100752 (approved January 5, 2011).

(2) Snow or ice removed from sidewalks, driveways, or other areas shall not be placed or piled in the street.

(3) Any person who violates this Section shall be subject to the provisions and penalties set forth in § 10-718 and § 10-719.

Given the property owners’ responsibility for keeping sidewalks clear of snow and ice, Philadelphia residents have been busy these past few winters. The recent record-setting winters have made it difficult for city snow plow drivers as well as homeowners to keep up with the demands of snow removal.

Snowstorm in downtown Philadelphia
A snowstorm descends on downtown Philadelphia.

During the blizzard of 2016, Philadelphia residents experienced the fourth largest snowstorm in the city’s history, receiving 22.4 inches of snow during a massive two-and-a-half-day storm. In fact, several parts of the country experienced record setting storms and snowfall for the winter of 2015-2016. And weather experts expect more of the same for the next several upcoming winters.

But Philadelphia residents have options when it comes to preparing for the next snow season. In addition to having some extra supplies and keeping the cupboards and refrigerator well stocked, some Pennsylvania residents are dumping the snow blower and shovels in favor of radiant heat.

Fully Automated Snow Melting Systems
Warmzone snow melting systems are energy efficient and maintenance free. Not only do these systems eliminate the need for manual snow removal, but they have proven valuable to businesses by keeping entrances and parking areas clear of snow and ice for customers. Providing a safe environment not only enhances business, but reduces the chances of costly litigation as a result of personal injury.

In addition to the silent, maintenance-free operation of radiant heat, electric snow melting systems are fully automated, so they operate only when needed. The system includes an advanced snow sensor that detects temperature and precipitation. When the temperature is below a set point – typically 39° Fahrenheit – it sends power to the embedded heat cable, warming the area and preventing snow accumulation.

As an industry leader, Warmzone snow melting systems feature trusted ClearZone heat cable that is available off the spool or pre-spaced in mats that can be rolled out for easy installation. The electric radiant heating mats are laid out and secured, and then the medium (concrete, pavers, or asphalt) is applied directly over the cable.

The proven ClearZone electric snowmelt system is commonly installed in both commercial and residential applications. From large heated driveways and parking areas to custom sized walkways, ramps and loading docks, ClearZone systems are versatile and can be easily customized.

Warmzone snow melting systems include the heating cable, an activation device (snow sensor), contactor panel, and marker plate (as required by the NEC). These fully automated systems require no maintenance, and are relatively easy to install. In fact, much of the installation can be done by any ambitious homeowner, but wiring the system must be completed by a licensed electrician in order to keep the warranty valid.

In addition to providing the highest quality radiant heating products, Warmzone also offers unmatched customer services. Each system is professionally designed, so you’ll know the exact layout and proper materials, load calculations, breaker sizes, number of breakers, and system performance expectations before one foot of heat cable is installed.

Warmzone also includes free installation support services. A dedicated staff of experts is on hand during your installation if you need. Should your installer have any questions while installing the system, he/she can speak with one of our installation experts to resolve any issues. Free installation training is also available. When it comes to customer service, you’ll find that Warmzone is second to none.

Contact Warmzone today and learn more about the radiant heating options that are available. In addition to offering heated driveways and snow melting systems, Warmzone also offers premier roof deicing and floor heating systems. Call 888.488.9276 to learn more.

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FloorHeat Radiant Floor Heating Systems

Home Improvement Project you can Truly Build On

FloorHeat floor heating systems are a home improvement project you can truly build on. As you would expect from Warmzone, they are an excellent radiant heating product you can use to heat select rooms or your entire home if you choose. So you can tackle your radiant heating needs, a room at a time if you need to, without disrupting your home or your lifestyle—not such an easy accomplishment with many home improvement projects.

Radiant floor heating systems are a terrific way to build your equity in your home along with some cutting edge, green technology. FloorHeat floor heating systems run on sustainable energy and can be easily integrated with existing wind or solar power. Plus radiant heat technology is equally soft on your home environment. There are no vents to clean, no dirty air circulating through your home, and no fossil fuels to burn. By nature, FloorHeat floor heating systems are clean, silent and virtually maintenance free, compared to traditional forced air systems.

Low-voltage floor heating system being installed

Because the heating element is self-regulating and installed directly under the floor surface, FloorHeat floor heating systems can be decidedly more efficient (up to 30 percent more) than other electric and hydronic systems, and up to 60 percent more efficient than conventional forced air systems. They’re quite conservative, only drawing the energy required to maintain your home’s ideal temperature, so they’re a very efficient choice for home heating.

FloorHeat semi-conductive polymer heating elements can be used for a wide variety of heating applications. This flexible, thin heating element features an extremely low profile that does not affect floor buildup, weight loads, or flooring choices, circumstances potentially complicating your project. And it can be safely cut to size on the work site for a variety of applications, from the straightforward to oddly-sized/shaped areas. And FloorHeat heating elements can be placed directly under any non-conductive floor covering, from carpet, to ceramic tile, hardwood and slate for safe, even and efficient heat distribution.

FloorHeat is a great low-voltage product that can be easily installed under existing floors by accessing the floor joists from below. Available in 9- and 12-inch widths, the polymer heating element can be stapled and nailed through for easy installation. Once the layout is determined, you’re essentially a few easy steps away from radiant heated flooring in you home. Simply cut the element to appropriate length, make the electrical connections, and run the wires to the terminal board(s) and transformer. (It is important to have an electrician perform all the system wiring to ensure the warranty is valid.) Then secure the elements to the subfloor with adhesive, staples, or pegs and cover to trade practices and then place insulation to help direct the heat efficiently upwards to the floor.

With Warmzone’s help, an ambitious do-it-yourselfer can install a FloorHeat radiant heated floor system with ease. Warmzone will provide a detailed system layout as well as expert installation support. You are never alone when you work with Warmzone. In addition to industry leading customer service, Warmzone also provides a wealth of documentation on Warmzone.com, including: manuals, technical guides, illustrations, informative articles and an extensive FAQ section. Unlike many radiant heat system providers, Warmzone provides complete, professional radiant heat services, including detailed layouts with each system, and installation support.

Before you shop anywhere else, why not get expert advice from the radiant heat specialists in the business to use as a baseline? In terms of products, services, support and price, you’ll be pressed to find any radiant heat specialists as competitive as Warmzone. Visit www.warmzone.com or call 888.488.9276 to find out more about FloorHeat radiant heated floor systems, along with all of the other great radiant heat products Warmzone offers.

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Keeping Roofs Clear of Ice in Newark, New Jersey

With record setting snowstorms blanketing Newark, New Jersey during the winter of 2015-2016, rooftops of commercial facilities as well as residential neighborhoods across the city were sorely tested. And as temperatures warmed after the storms, falling snow and ice posed significant dangers to pedestrians throughout the city.

With building owners in Newark responsible for the safety of their roofs and the safety of pedestrians below, roof snow guards, radiant roof heating systems, and snow removal services are all employed across the city during the winter. The most effective system – by far – has proven to be radiant heat, which is why more and more commercial building owners are turning to the automated roof heating systems. Homeowners in the Newark area are also installing radiant roof deicing systems. While homeowners are less worried about law suits as a result of ice and snow falling from their roofs, they are faced with the potentially costly threat of ice dams.

As heat rises from the home, it can escape into the attic and warm the roof, causing water to trickle down near the roof’s edge. But since the roof eaves are colder, the water refreezes. As this process is repeated, water can build up behind the ice where it can seep into tiny cracks of the roof. Each night, as the water refreezes, it expands, paving the way for more water to seep into the cracks and eventually into the home. The resulting water damage within walls and ceilings can be expensive to repair.

Heavy snow accumulation on roof

Warmzone roof deicing and gutter trace systems offer one of the best roof heating solutions available for preventing hazardous ice dams and heavy icicles from forming on roofs. The roof heating systems are easy to customize and install. Once installed the roof deicing and gutter trace systems operate only when conditions warrant, keeping heavy ice from damaging roof gutters and preventing ice dams from forming along roof edges.

In addition to Warmzone’s large variety of industry leading roof deicing systems, Warmzone radiant heat experts work closely with customers to determine the best and most affordable option for the roof.

The most popular roof heating system features an advanced polymer heating element (RoofHeat STEP) that can be installed directly under roof shingles. This low-voltage system has proven to be a favorite roof heating solution among professional installers and homeowners throughout the Newark area. Heat trace cable can also be installed to heat gutters and downspouts, or the systems can be combined to produce optimum results.

Warmzone professionals are experts when it comes to roof heating, and its customer service is second to none. In addition to providing complete system designs (AutoCAD), installers have access to free installation training as well as personal installation support. If installers encounter any issues or have any questions during the process, he/she can speak with one of the dedicated installation support staff to resolve the issue.

To learn more about Warmzone’s roof heating options, call 888.488.9276. Many home and business owners in Newark are already enjoying the benefits of a Warmzone roof deicing system. Call a Warmzone consultant to learn more – with no obligation or sales pressure. As an industry leader, Warmzone offers one of the most informative radiant heating websites available, so visit warmzone.com and learn more about the radiant heating options available to you.

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