Tag Archives: Installing snow melting system

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Tips for Installing Radiant Snow Melting Systems

Avoid Common Installation Mistakes

Installing a radiant snow melting system is not a difficult task, but there are a few important tips that installers should keep in mind. Perhaps the most important “tip” for installers is this: Take advantage of the free installation training provided by Warmzone.

We make the training easy. Installers can schedule their training online, via video conference. You’ll have a personal instructor who will cover every aspect of your installation, and you can stop and ask questions any time.

The other most important tip we can offer is to read the installation manual and follow the steps provided. A common mistake is that some installers are so eager to dive into the installation, that they don’t take the time to read the installation manual. Make sure you read the manual (and test the heat cable) prior to beginning the physical installation. Also, confirm that you have the right products for your installation. The voltage and wattage information of the heating cable is provided on the label of the box, so check this beforehand. If you need, you can call Warmzone’s technical support staff. We’re available to you throughout the installation process.

After confirming that you have the right cable, open the box and use a megohmmeter to perform OHM tests of the heat cable. It’s important to text the cable throughout the installation process. Test it before removing it from the box, as well as during and after the installation. This way you’ll discover any potential problems as early as possible. This will save you time and ensure a successful installation. Be sure to document the results (as outlined in the manual) to maintain the manufacturer’s warranty.

As you begin to layout the heat cable, keep these important guidelines in mind:

●Always maintain proper cable spacing. Sometimes the cable may shift slightly after laying it out, so double-check the spacing before covering it.
● Never cut, cross or overlap the heating cable. The heat cable should not be altered under any circumstance, as it may cause overheating and damage the cable.
●Always embed the cable completely. Leave no air around the cable.
●Make sure to embed the factory splice (where the heating cable and power lead meet). See the illustration provided.
●Use a megohmmeter to perform OHM tests of the heat cable before removing the cable from the box, during the installation, and after the cable has been laid out.
●Always run the cold lead in a conduit (The power lead for the heating cable is not intended for direct burial.)
A few important guidelines to remember when installing the heat cable for an automated radiant snow melting system.
Proper embedding of cable splice - large
Embedding the cable splice for a heated driveway.

When installing snow melting cable in asphalt, the cables should be covered by two inches of asphalt. To prevent heat damage, the asphalt should be allowed to cool to 220°F (105°C) before pouring directly onto the mats or cables. (The in-ground snow sensors/tubes should not be exposed to temperatures above 176°F (80°C).) Warmzone offers specially constructed heat cable for installation in hot asphalt applications. ClearZone heat cable for asphalt is rated up to 460 degrees for up to 10 minutes.

When installing a new heated asphalt driveway, the snow melting cable is laid out on the binder or base coat and then approximately 2-inches of asphalt is hand shoveled directly on top of the cable. The asphalt is then compacted, using a 1-ton roller or less.

When installing the snow sensor (either an aerial-mount or ground-mount), make sure it has a clear, 360-degree “view” of the sky to allow snow to fall onto the sensor plate. This ensures that the system will activate when needed.

Example of incorrect layout of snow melting heat cable
How NOT to lay out your heat cable.
Heated driveways being installed
Heating mats properly laid out for a concrete heated driveway.

Remember, these guidelines don’t supersede the information in the instruction manual. Always refer to the manual, and don’t hesitate to contact Warmzone’s friendly technical support staff. We want you to success, so we are happy to assist you at any time.

Warmzone is one of the largest providers of snow melting, floor heating, and roof de-icing systems, as well as luxury home heating amenities. For more information about our radiant heat systems or luxury amenities, contact a friendly Warmzone representative today, at 888-488-9276.

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Radiant Heat Online Information Resources

Illustrations, How-to Videos and More

Installing a radiant snow melting system is not especially complicated, but there are some important steps to remember to ensure that the system is installed and performing correctly. In addition to Warmzone offering technical support for installers as well as free installation training, Warmzone provides a wealth of information online. Some resources include helpful illustrations as well as informative installation “how-to” videos that are posted online. Below are samples of snow melting system illustrations and radiant heat videos.

Sectional view of CZ snow melting systems.

Click on image to enlarge.

Another helpful illustration for heated driveway installations outlines how to embed the cable splice for the heating cable. The example below shows a snow melting system installed to heat a concrete driveway.

Embedding the cable splice

Click on the image to enlarge.

The illustration below provides a general overview of an electric radiant snow melting system and its components.

ClearZone snow melting system and components overview.

View the ClearZone Snow Melting System Overview (above). Click on the image to enlarge.

Also, check out Warmzone’s online instructional installation videos. Topics range from reviewing and filling out warranty information to proper cable installation techniques and wiring of the system components.

Instructional radiant heat installation videos.

View additional radiant heat documents and illustrations.

View our Installation Overviews web pages.

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Contractors Benefit from Working with Warmzone

Proven Radiant Heat Installers Gain Repeat Business from Warmzone

Warmzone Connects Experienced Contractors with Customers to Deliver Top-notch Radiant Heat Installations

As a contractor, are you interested in increasing your business? Are you looking for a radiant heat solutions provider you can trust? As a premier provider of radiant heat services, Warmzone has a longstanding reputation for connecting the best talent with their customers, generating more business for contractors, and greater peace of mind for consumers. So radiant heat installers benefit by partnering with Warmzone and customers benefit by having a proven, experienced contractor install their system.

Warmzone keeps track of radiant heat installers and their performance; thereby maintaining a map of the top independent installers throughout the country. This assists customers in identifying the most reputable professionals in their area to install radiant heat. Initially, professional builders teamed up with Warmzone because of its trusted products and unmatched customer support. Now, knowing that they can gain additional jobs adds even more incentive for installers and also benefits consumers as well. Currently, Warmzone can recommend preferred installers in virtually any region of the country.

Heated sidewalks being installed

Warmzone’s extensive catalog of proven products, awareness of current trends and profound industry knowledge currently supports a vast network of installers across the country. These resources provide impressive technical support, including complete system design and layout services, free installation training, “how-to” videos, and personal installation support. These resources are supplemented by the vast instructional documents and diagrams provided in Warmzone’s library of system manuals and technical guides residing on Warmzone’s website. Installers can put this wealth of online information to work for them and allow them to install radiant heat systems with confidence.

In addition to the online information, customers can utilize Warmzone’s free consulting services so they can make the best decision when it comes to purchasing and installing a radiant heat system. Warmzone is more than a provider of radiant heat – Warmzone is a partner that is committed to offering the best customer service in the business. We are determined to see that your snow melting, roof heating or floor heating system is installed properly and performing as expected.

Applying hot asphalt over heat cable mats

Contractors and installers have come to particularly appreciate Warmzone’s free installation training courses. Here a radiant heat expert covers all the aspects of installing a radiant heat system. Again, this benefits the installer and the customer. If the installer still encounters any questions during the installation process, he can speak to one of our dedicated support staff to assure that the installation goes off without a hitch. Installers are never left out in the cold when they work with Warmzone. Our goal, of course, is to give construction professionals the resources and the confidence they need to add radiant heat installation to their menu of services and provide the best service to our customers.

When it comes to all things radiant heat, Warmzone is the perfect partner. If you’re a contractor, it’s a great time to team up with professionals who have your back, and improve your bottom line. As a homeowner, you’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing you have a trusted installer and team of experts working for you. To learn more, call Warmzone at 888.488.9276.

Visit Warmzone.com for all things Radiant Heat

If you’re currently contemplating a radiant heat solution for your home, Warmzone can help you stay on top of your radiant heat installation with a comprehensive library of online resources. Whether you choose to purchase that top shelf solution from your local big box hardware store, or enlist our help, these online resources are absolutely free and available whenever you need them.

Rather than mucking blindly through a home improved project, it is the informed consumer that makes the best decision. And keep in mind: a radiant heat system is only as good as its installation, so it pays to work with a professional who will walk you through the entire purchase and installation process.

The prospect of researching a radiant heat project can be overwhelming if you don’t know where to look. Warmzone.com takes a deep dive into all aspects of radiant heat, allowing you to research and compare systems efficiently, including individual components and applications. The site helps you begin the process of discovering and weighing all of your options to help you make better decisions when you shop. It will also open you up to the realm of creative possibilities a radiant heat system home improvement project provides.

Beyond the initial shopping experience, we’ve made it easy for consumers by providing free consulting and an extensive library of online resources available whenever you need them. You’ll find high level overviews of radiant heat systems including their benefits, how they operate and current applications. You’ll discover an extensive archive of articles on a range of topics, as well as technical guides, installation videos, installation manuals and system component specs to suit your project needs. Here’s a sampling of the many topics you can expect to see the Warmzone archives:

In addition to this information, Warmzone offers instructional videos you can watch in real time to help you move through all aspects of a radiant heat project, whether you are installing a heated bathroom floor, a gutter-trace system or installing heat cable for your heated driveway.

Choosing Warmzone products yields big dividends for do-it-yourselfers and the most conscientious customers. By tapping a premiere provider, you benefit from the best in radiant heat technology and services available. Warmzone invests years of deep industry knowledge and experience into finding high-performing, cutting-edge radiant heat solutions for customers backed by impressive resources. Their professional design services team custom designs each radiant heat system to ensure it meets your project’s specific needs in terms of performance, installation complexity and price. You’ll know what to expect, every step of the way. Simply bring your creativity and budget requirements to Warmzone. Once you have a system design in place, our dedicated staff of experts are there to assist you throughout the purchase, design and installation process.

Whether you’re researching, shopping, or elbow-deep in an installation, you can call our technical support team or reference Warmzone.com, which is always available. We take pride in offering the most comprehensive library of information available on all-things radiant heat related to help make your project a success. Call today for more information: 888.488.9276.

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Installing a Heated Driveway

How is a Heated Driveway Installed?

Whether you’re looking to install a radiant snow melting system in concrete, asphalt, or under pavers, it doesn’t take much to make a heated driveway a reality. The important thing to remember is that a radiant snow melting system is only as good as its installation. That’s why Warmzone emphasizes customer support services such as free training and personal installation support. But how is a heated driveway system installed?

Snow melting system overview

Click image to enlarge.

First, a Warmzone radiant heat expert will work with you to determine the specs and products that will best meet the specific needs of your custom project. After verifying receipt of the heat cable and system components, prepare the area where the system is being installed. Make sure there are no nails, sharp rocks or other items present that can cause damage to the heating cable.

Heated driveway installation with Mesh-Up supports

If you are installing a concrete heated driveway, install wire remesh in the area to be heated. Once the remesh is laid out, heat cable is then installed and secured to the remesh using zip ties.  This keeps the cable from shifting during the concrete pour. Mesh-Up plastic supports are then installed to lift the remesh and prevent the heat cable from resting on the ground. (The heat cable should be about two inches from the finished surface.)

With the Mesh-Ups installed and the cable secured to the remesh, concrete can now be poured over the heating cable/mats. Take care to not damage the heating cable. A typical slab is 4-inches thick. Follow your concrete contractor’s installation methods and follow all building codes. The heating cable is to be within 2-inches of the finished surface.

Mesh-Ups under remesh, supporting heat cable

Click image to enlarge.

Most heated driveway systems utilize an aerial mount snow sensor to activate the system. This is typically installed at the roof’s edge where it has open access to the elements. When precipitation is present and the temperature is below the set point (usually set at 39°F), the sensor signals the contactor panel and power is then sent to the heat cable.

View additional “How to” Videos from Warmzone.

Important Note: For warranty and safety purposes, it is necessary for a qualified electrician to connect the system.

Articles

Installing a Radiant Snow Melting System (Part I)

Radiant Heated Driveways can be Installed in a Variety of Applications

Radiant heat snow melting systems can be designed, engineered and installed in any size, shape and type of driveway. From large parking lots to small driveways, steps or sidewalks, radiant snow melting systems can accommodate virtually all your snow melting needs. But the custom options don’t just stop there. You have a variety of options to choose from to fit your budget. You can heat your entire driveway area or just a strip down the middle, or perhaps just two 2-foot wide tire tracks. When you work with a trusted leader like Warmzone, your system will be designed and engineered so that it is the best customized radiant heat solution for your needs.

The ClearZone radiant heat system is one of the most proven snow melting systems on the market, which is why it’s not only a favorite among homeowners, but construction professionals as well. The heat cable can be installed in a variety of applications, including concrete, asphalt, and under pavers.

Concrete Heated Driveways and Sidewalks – New Pour

Heated driveway in Denver

For years the ClearZone snow melting system has proven itself to be one of the most versatile and reliable radiant snow melting systems on the market. It is installed in numerous mediums, but concrete is the most common application for ClearZone heated driveways. The rugged heat cable is designed to withstand the stress of heavy concrete pours. During the installation, the ClearZone cable is laid out and then zip tied to the wire remesh. The concrete is then poured over the cable.

New Asphalt Construction Heated Driveways

Asphalt driveway with heated tire tracks

Hot asphalt can damage some lower quality heat cables, but ClearZone cable is designed to withstand both the extreme temperatures and stress (from the compression) of newly poured asphalt. The radiant heating cable is laid out on the base surface (usually compacted sand), and the asphalt is then hand shoveled on top of the cable and then compacted.

For asphalt applications, it is recommended (but not required) to install 1-inch rigid insulation underneath the base surface. The insulation can be installed underneath the base surface or it can be laid on top of the base surface and the snow melting cable can then be secured on top of the insulation.

Brick Paver Driveways – Installation

Large heated paver driveway

ClearZone radiant snow melting systems are the most effective systems for heating under pavers. Installing a radiant snow melting system under brick pavers is also one of the easiest radiant heat installation methods. The heating cable is laid out on the base surface and the pavers are installed as normal, directly over the cables. Because the ClearZone cable has been tested and approved for wet conditions, the cable can come in contact with moisture without its performance being affected.

Continued – Go to Installing a Radiant Snow Melting System (Part II).

Articles

Installing a Radiant Snow Melting System (Part II)

Repaving and Retrofitting Asphalt Driveway with Radiant Heat

Continued from Installing a Radiant Snow Melting System (Part I).

The ClearZone snow melting system is unique because it isn’t limited to new construction applications and can withstand the rigors of concrete pours and hot asphalt. If you have an existing asphalt driveway and intend to re-pave it, you can retrofit your driveway with a ClearZone snow melting system. The heat cable is secured to the existing asphalt with clips and nails and only needs to be embedded under just ½-inch of asphalt. The new asphalt is hand shoveled onto the cable and then compacted. ClearZone cable is simple to install and provides the best performance for heating asphalt driveways.

Fully Automated

The heat cable is wired to the master controller, which is usually mounted on a wall in the garage. An aerial or pavement mounted snow sensor is wired to the controller. When the sensor detects precipitation and the temperature is below a set point (usually 39°F.), it signals the controller, which then sends power to the heat cable to warm the driveway. While the system is fully automated, the controller also features manual override capability for times when you may need to melt a snow drift or ice that formed in a shady spot.

Heated concrete driveway for mountain lodge

In addition to the many different types of surfaces that the ClearZone snow melting system can be installed under, you have many custom configurations that you can choose from. Warmzone will work closely with you to keep within your budget while providing the optimum snow melting system for your needs. As a leading provider of radiant heat solutions, Warmzone will provide a detailed design of your snow melting system so that you know all the electrical and layout requirements prior to any installation. Warmzone also provides you with technical support during the installation.

Once installed, radiant snowmelt systems are virtually maintenance free, and in addition to helping preserve the quality of your concrete/asphalt driveway or sidewalks, it also eliminates the damage caused to surrounding grass and vegetation from salt and corrosive snow melting chemicals. With your radiant heat snow melting system, there’s no need to apply salt or harsh snow melting chemicals to your driveway. So enjoy those snowy mornings from the warmth of your living room and admire your clear driveway as you sip your hot coffee. The days of shoveling and salting are over.

When it comes to installing a snow melting system, it pays to work with the best. In addition to Warmzone’s competitive pricing, you’ll receive top-notch customer service. Call and talk to a radiant heat expert today (888.488.9276) to learn more about heated driveways and snow melting systems. You can also send Warmzone your project information and receive a free radiant heat quote. There’s no obligation.

Go back to Installing a Radiant Snow Melting System (Part I).

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Now is the Time to Buy

Energy Efficient, Environmentally Friendly Radiant Snow Melting Systems

If you’re one of those unfortunate souls who has to manually remove snow from the driveway and walks every winter, you may want to reconsider your methods. The passing of new snow removal laws (as in Massachusetts) don’t make it any easier on homeowners, who are now mandated to provide snow and ice-free walkways for pedestrians. If the sidewalks are not cleared, property owners are not only susceptible to personal injury lawsuits, but they also face the possibility of fines, levied by the local government. Removing snow from your driveway and sidewalks is no longer an option – it’s the law!

Grass damaged from salt applied to melt snow during winter

Many consumers stock up on salt and other snow melting chemicals to ease the physical burden of shoveling the snow, but the amount of time, money and adverse environmental effects of these chemicals can be evident year round.  While effective in melting snow, salt and chemicals are not so friendly to the surrounding landscape. When spring hits, the bordering grass and shrubs often reveal the ugly scars from the repeated salt and chemical use during the winter.

So if you’re serious about going green (in more ways than one), consider this: Radiant heat snow melting systems –

♦ Operate on clean, renewable energy (hydronic or electric)
♦ Are safe and environmentally friendly
♦ Are fully automated so that they efficiently operate only when needed
♦ Operate discreetly and silently

Of course, one of the most significant “selling points” of radiant snow melting systems is that it eliminates the time consuming, physical demands of the homeowner.

The best time to purchase and install a snow melting system is during the early spring. You are much more likely to discover discounted prices, because the demand typically wanes when the weather begins to warm. Springtime is a time when homeowners are more interested in outdoor grills and barbeques than snow melting systems. Of course, once the summer has run its course and Old Man Winter is peeking around the corner, consumers tend to scramble to install a snow melting system before the first storm hits.

While snow melting systems have become more affordable, installing a system should still be done with careful consideration. Do some research and deal with experts who will openly talk to you about the various products available. Don’t be fooled into thinking that some provider has the ready-made system that is perfect for your needs. You need unbiased professionals. Talk to the experienced radiant heat staff at Warmzone and learn the “how’s, what’s and why’s” before you make any decisions.

Warmzone is a trusted, leading provider of radiant heat systems, for good reason. We’ve been around a long time, and we offer a wide variety of proven systems from only the most reputable manufacturers. We’re not “locked in” to selling one brand or “one size fits all” system.

In fact, Warmzone provides customized solutions for all of its customers, and works within your budget. We evaluate, design and review every aspect of your project so that your system meets your needs, while keeping within your budget.

If you are serious about the environment and looking for a “green” solution for snow melting, look no further than Warmzone. Call 888.488.9276 today or email.

Pipe Tracing for Your Business

Keep Your Business Running Safely with Pipe Trace Cables
Owning and operating a business is serious business indeed. Your top priority besides making tons of dough is to keep things running smoothly and safely for all involved. If you own a large building or warehouse you are extra conscientious about keeping things moving at full steam ahead. Frozen pipes during the brutal winter months is a legitimate concern, one that savvy business owners are aware of. Commercial, municipal, and industrial buildings all need pipe tracing to protect pipes during dips in temperatures.

Heat trace cable installed on pipe of industrial facility.

Pipe freeze prevention is one of the first necessary investments you must make when your property is up and running. Pipes should be equipped with electric heat trace freeze protection for optimal temperature maintenance. In the long run, having pipe freeze protection will save you from costly repair and sometimes irreversible damage to inventory, equipment, and property.

Pipe freeze protection systems can be used with both metal and plastic water piping. In the coldest months where pipe freezing is a real danger, the self-regulating heat cable adjusts heat output in response to ambient temperatures. The power output increases or decreases in response to ambient temperature changes. This even occurs at each point along the length of the pipe trace cable effectively adjusting the power output in varying degrees along the length of the pipe. The design and intent of the self-regulating systems ensures safe and efficient operation. Operating your business safely is a whole lot easier with pipe trace cables.

Warmzone stands proudly by the quality of our products and services. Our radiant heat products are tested and proven to be among the best in the industry. Call Warmzone today. Your initial consultation and project estimate is absolutely free.

For more information on pipe tracing, radiant heated driveways, radiant floor heating, or roof deicing and gutter trace systems, browse our web site or call 888.488.9276 today.