Tag Archives: Snow melting systems

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Snow Melting System Details (Part I)

Finding the Right Snowmelt System Components and Services

Winter can be a treacherous time for business and homeowners when it comes to navigating the icy driveway, parking areas, and sidewalks. The best way to ensure safety around your house or business is by installing an automated snow melting system. These systems are reliable, easy to install and provide peace of mind for your home or workplace. When you work with trusted industry leader Warmzone, the systems include premier components, superior customer service, installation support, backed by years of radiant heat expertise.

Expertise and customer service is key when making such a significant investment, and at Warmzone, full design services are available to get you started off on the right foot. After discussing the project needs with you, a radiant heat expert will design a comprehensive radiant heat solution that is customized specifically for your property. The system layout includes a detailed CAD that outlines your system’s layout and materials, power needs, proper load calculations, breaker sizes, number of breakers, and performance expectations. After you have worked with an expert to design your system, it’s time to start your system installation.

Example of Warmzone radiant heat system AutoCAD
Example of a snow melting system design snowing proper cable layout and technical information.

Proper installation is essential to radiant heat systems; that’s why Warmzone offers free installation training and support. Whether you are a professional or a homeowner doing a DIY installation, installation training is available in person or online. Installers can also call our installation experts at 888.488.9276 if they have any questions.

Using Warmzone’s proven UL listed Clearzone heating cable, snow melting systems can be installed in almost any medium, including concrete, asphalt, and pavers. ClearZone is a high quality twin-conductor, single-point connection cable that can withstand the stress of fresh concrete pours and heat of hot asphalt. Warmzone’s standard CZ cable is rated at 220 degrees Fahrenheit and is designed to produce 30-50 watts per square foot. (For asphalt installations, a special ClearZone cable rated up to 460 degrees for up to 10 minutes is available.)

ClearZone heating cable in mat and rolled.

The durable and versatile heat cable is available off spools or in mats that can be easily rolled out for quick installation. Installation for your project begins with this heating cable being laid out and secured to a re-mesh. This re-mesh is supported by plastic Mesh-Ups that keep the heat cable elevated during the concrete pour. (It is important that the cable does not rest on the ground.) After the cable is laid out and secured, the concrete or asphalt is applied.

The next essential piece of an automated snow melting system is the automatic sensor (activation device). These temperature and moisture sensors can be pavement mounted or aerial-mounted. Aerial sensors are typically used for residential applications, while pavement mounted sensors are generally used for commercial snow melting projects. When the temperature reaches a set point (usually set at 39°F) and moisture is present, the sensor signals the master controller / contactor panel to send power to the snow melting system’s heat cable. There are benefits to both sensors, and each are well suited for particular projects.

To continue learning about how Warmzone’s snow melting systems, check out Part II of Snow Melting System Details below.

Snow Melting System Details (Part II)

Finding the Right Snowmelt System Components and Services

Aerial sensors are typically used for residential snow melting systems (and roof deicing systems). Warmzone’s WS-2C aerial sensor sets the industry standard with new enhancements that make it the most popular and trusted. The activation device has a universal power supply allowing it to auto select input voltage, a redesigned case, and increased moisture control sensitivity. This sensor detects moisture through an interleaved grid at the top of the unit, and temperature is detected by a sensor at the bottom of the unit.

The WS-2C is compact and easy to install, features an adjustable set point and has manual, automatic and standby capability. Another bonus of Warmzone’s aerial mounted sensor is its smart system compatibility. When you purchase the optional WS-AUX and CS-1 cable, you can control your system from remote locations through your telephone.

Aerial mount snow sensor
A WS-2C aerial mount snow sensor for automated snow melting systems.

Pavement mounted sensors are generally used for commercial projects. The ground-mount sensor is directly mounted in the surface of the area to be heated, which allows for increased energy efficiency without sacrificing effectiveness. When the set point is reached and moisture is detected, the sensor signals the master controller, which activates the ClearZone snow melting system. This unit is only used with a pavement mounted sensor, and is a small NEMA 1 wall mounted control panel. The panel s designed so it can be controlled from an external signal. It can be in standby mode to activate when needed, or can be turned on manually to melt snow drifts or ice that may have formed in shaded areas. Warmzone’s master controller is not only technologically advanced, but is also very affordable. The Warmzone controller provides maintenance free, UL listed, under pavement heating. After the storm, to ensure that the heated area is completely dry, the pavement mounted sensor is equipped with an “after-run” function to ensure complete dryness and no ice formation.

Pavement mount snow sensor
A pavement mount snow sensor for automated snow melting systems.

When you choose Warmzone for your snow melting needs, not only do you receive premier systems and components, you also receive online resources available at anytime – which include Warmzone’s instructional videos, articles, and glossary of helpful terms.

Still have questions about ClearZone snow melting systems? Check out this snow melting system overview and other documentation, or contact an experienced representative who can provide sincere, non biased recommendations based on your needs at 888.488.9276.

View ClearZone Snow Melting System Literature

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Snow Melting Systems: Where do you Start?

Tips for Those Considering Radiant Heat

Purchasing a snow melting system like the ClearZone system offered at Warmzone is a great way to eliminate manual labor and make your home or business safer, but the process of finding, purchasing, and installing a system can seem complicated to any buyer. There are quite a few questions that can slow the purchasing and installation process. What products best suit my needs?  How much power is required? How is my system installed? Here is a quick breakdown of the procedure to help you make a confident and informed decision.

One of the first things that needs to be addressed when installing a snow melting system is to determine the square footage of the area to be heated. A rough draft of the area you wish to heat is typically needed to begin the estimate and design of your radiant heat system. If you are unsure of the exact measurements or don’t know how to calculate the square footage of your driveway or area to be heated, contact Warmzone at 888.488.9276. With state-of-the-art software that allows for a satellite view of the property, a qualified Warmzone representative can measure the square footage for your project over the phone. Warmzone also offers professional design services to provide you with a detailed layout of your system. The custom layout takes all factors into consideration, including, the specifics of your property, the climate of your location, average yearly snowfall, and power requirements. Designing a custom system for you ensures that the best solution is provided and makes the installation of the heated driveway you’ve been imagining easy and painless.

Professional design and layout of radiant heated driveway
Example of radiant heated driveway system AutoCAD.

When it comes to power for your radiant heat system, here are few basic guidelines. It is important to verify the existing voltage (110/120 or 220/240) and available amperage. To make certain of your home’s power, we recommend having an electrician come to your location to measure the amperage. However, you can also check your home’s power by accessing your main breaker panel. Most homes are equipped with either two 100 amp panels or one 200 amp panel, which should be located at the top of the main breaker box. When figuring out what power your system may need, consider that one 30 amp breaker will heat about 170 square feet, so a 350-square-foot driveway would require one 60 amp breaker, or two 30 amp breakers. But don’t be intimidated by these details. Warmzone radiant heat experts will assist your electrician at any time to help ensure that all of your project information is correct prior to any installation taking place.

Most homes have more than ample power to operate a heated driveway or sidewalk(s). However, in the unlikely situation that there is limited power available, a technique called zoning can be used.

Zoning allows those with minimal power to still enjoy the benefits of a snow melting system. Your designated snow melting area is divided into zones, each with its own snow sensor. The zones are prioritized by which area must be cleared. Each zone operates separately, utilizing the available power to remove snow and ice from the designated area. This allows the system to optimize the available power. After the first zone is cleared power is sent to the next zone and so on, cycling much like a sprinkler system.

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.

At Warmzone, zoning is efficient and cost effective. The smart cycling features allow an area that may already be cleared to be skipped and not activated. Homeowners can also operate the system manually. If you have any questions about power, a Warmzone representative would be happy to assist you and explain your options. To talk with a radiant heat expert, call 888.488.9276.

After verifying the voltage and available amperage of your home or business, you can move forward with the installation. Snow melting systems can be installed in almost any medium, whether it’s asphalt, concrete, or pavers. After choosing and receiving your heating cable and other system components, it’s time to prepare the area for installation. Make sure the area is cleared of any rocks or debris that may damage the heating cable.

With concrete installations, a wire remesh is installed and the heating cable is secured to the mesh to ensure proper cable spacing and prevent shifting during pouring. Next, Mesh-Up plastic supports are installed to prevent the cable from sitting on the ground. Finally, an aerial mount snow sensor is installed, which activates when there is precipitation and temperature drops below the set point (usually 39°F). When installing system components make sure to follow building codes and advised installation methods. You can also check out some basic installation tips here or view some helpful installation videos.

Still have questions about snow melting systems? Take advantage of the many industry leading services available at Warmzone. Professional design and engineering services offered at Warmzone provide customers with product consultation as well as a detailed CAD of their system’s layout. This ensures system performance expectations are met and minimizes installation issues. Free Installation training through Warmzone University is offered online or in person, and free tech support from radiant heat experts and electricians is also available.

Heated paver driveway in operation.
Example of a snow melting system in action.

Check out all the benefits Warmzone can offer by contacting a dedicated professional today at 888.488.9276.

HOTNEWS

Pre-Installation Checklist

Radiant Heat Experts Offer Key Advise and Tips on What NOT to do When Installing Radiant Heat

Radiant heat systems work. It’s a proven technology that produces impressive results. But like most technology related products, if a radiant heat system isn’t installed correctly, the results can be equally disappointing. Installing a radiant heat system is not difficult, but it does need to be done properly. You can buy the best snow melting system components on the market, but unless they’re installed correctly, you won’t see the results you’re expecting.

Recently named “Vendor of the Year” by the National Association of Custom Home Builders, Warmzone is a proven and trusted industry-leading provider of radiant heated driveways, heated floors and roof deicing systems. The company achieved its position by not only offering superior products, but by including the industry’s most comprehensive customer support services, including free installation training, technical support, and system design. These unparalleled services distinguish Warmzone from the competition, and have set the gold standard for all radiant heat providers.

“Our products not only work, but they’re among the industry’s best,” stated Bryan Morris, Director of National Sales for Warmzone. “But unless installers follow a few simple guidelines and install these systems correctly, the quality of the materials will make little difference.”

Installing a heated paver driveway.

Some of the most common installation mistakes include:

  1. IMPROPER CABLE SPACING. Too often, installers neglect to follow the cable spacing rules: Keep the cable at a minimum spacing of 2 inches and a maximum of 4 inches (center-to-center). Make sure the cable in adjacent mats is at least 2 inches apart.
  2. IMPROPER CABLE DEPTH. In concrete applications, many times installers allow the heat cable to rest on the dirt prior to the concrete pour. (Invest in Mesh-Ups. These plastic support ‘chairs’ are extremely affordable, and they can make all the difference in the world between a successful and an unsuccessful installation.) Mesh-Ups elevate the re-mesh (and heat cable) so that it is not resting on the ground when the concrete is poured. It’s a simple, affordable solution to prevent poor snow melting system performance, not to mention unhappy customers.
  3. NEGLECTED WARRANTY CARD. Too many installers forget to fill out the warranty card and mail it to the manufacturer. Don’t let this happen.
  4. FORGETTING TO TEST THE CABLE. Too many installers forget to test the cable during all phases of the installation. Start by testing the cable out of the box and then throughout the installation.
  5. COMPROMISED HEAT CABLE. Maintain the cable integrity by never cutting the cable, and take extreme caution when using shovels and rakes during concrete pours.

One way to limit mistakes during an installation is not only to avoid the above errors, but to follow the handy checklist below, put together by Warmzone’s experienced support staff:

PRE-INSTALLATION CHECKLIST

Before buying and installing a radiant heat system, review the checklist below.

  • Verify the correct voltage of your home or business (220/240 or 110/120).
  • Verify the available amperage. Don’t guess or assume. You’ll need to be certain, so we recommend having an electrician come to your location to measure the amperage.
  • Do your homework before hiring an electrician. Let’s face it, not everyone is competent or ethical. Preferably, find one who has been in business for several years. Ask around and talk with those who have personal experience with electricians.
  • Keep in mind that the National Electric Code (NEC) requires that the system has 30mA GFEP (30mA trip protection).
  • Make sure the installer has completed Warmzone’s free installation training course.

After installing your radiant heat system, fill out and mail your warranty card.

Perhaps the most overlooked tip – and one that can eliminate installation mistakes and unhappy customers – is to take advantage of the free training!  Call 801.948.7577 or 888.488.9276 to sign up or learn more.

Part II: Stories from the Support Desk

Learn From Your Mistakes

Installation Support Experts Reveal Some Unfortunate Installer Mistakes

While most mistakes can be remedied, it is – of course – much easier to simply do the job right the first time. Here are some stories of past installation blunders that could have easily been avoided:

Installation #1:  DON’T CUT THE CORD!

“Instead of starting the cable installation as close as possible to the electrical source, one installer began running the cable from the terminated end. After laying out the cable, he discovered that he had about 60 extra feet of heat cable – including the splice to the cold lead. He cut the excess cable and then ran the heat cable (from the terminated end) directly into the ETO2 control unit!

Scissors and cable - Never cut the heat cable
Never cut the heat cable! To make turns, cut the white binding tape and arrange the cable accordingly.

Needless to say, this presented a significant fire hazard, not to mention that the entire system was now inoperable. This disaster could have been easily prevented with a few minutes of consulting with one of our support staff, or by completing one of our installation training courses.”

Installation #2:  SPACED OUT

“Many installation problems are a result of improper spacing of the heat cable. And while mats come with the cable pre-spaced, the adjacent mats still must be spaced no less than 2 inches apart. The photo below shows how one installer laid out the cable and then applied the concrete pour. Instead of cutting the white binding tape to make turns with the mats, the cable was simply ‘serpentined’ all across the driveway; overlapping and bunching up and so on.

Example of incorrect layout of snow melting heat cable.
Example of incorrectly laid out heat cable for heated driveway. Cable must not touch or overlap. Always follow the installation guidelines regarding the correct layout of the heat cable.
Correct layout of heat cable
Example of heat cable (in mats) laid out correctly for a heated paver driveway.

Again, this could have been avoided by making a simple call to Warmzone, viewing one of our installation videos online, or completing an installation training course. Instead, the concrete had to be dug up and the system replaced. Don’t have time to take the 45-minute installation training course? Think again.”

“Mistakes like these shouldn’t happen,”  Morris emphasized. “Installers can complete a simple installation training course prior to installing the system, and they can always call a member of our support staff if they have any questions during the installation. If they do either of these things, then they’re likely to save themselves a lot of stress.”

Don’t Forget:

Test the heat cable during the installation and record the readings in the fields provided on the warranty card. After installing your radiant heat system, complete and mail your warranty card.

Double check your cable spacing. (Minimum spacing of 2 inches and a maximum spacing of 4 inches.)

Perhaps the tip that can most effectively eliminate installation mistakes and unhappy customers is this: Take advantage of the free training! 

Articles

Installation Tips – Installing a Snow Melting System in Asphalt

Installation Tips for Installing Snow Melting Heat Cable in Asphalt (Quick Reference Guide – Article 1 in a Series of 3)

Remember to check the element resistance and the insulation resistance of the heating cable/mat at the recommended intervals:

  1. In the box: Write the values on the warranty card.
  2. After being laid out: Write the values on the warranty card.
  3. After being covered: Write the values on the warranty card.
  4. Record your readings in the installation manual.
  • When laying out the cable, DO NOT allow heating cables to touch, cross, overlap or get bunched up. Minimum allowable spacing is 2 inches.
  • Do NOT place asphalt that is higher in temperature than the cable’s maximum rated temperature on the heating cables.
  • Heating cables should be securely fastened so they do not move or shift during the embedment process.

Applying hot asphalt over heat cable mats

  • Do NOT use a track application machine on the asphalt. Rubber tire applicators are okay as long as the asphalt temperature is below the maximum rated temperature for the heating cables.
  • The operating weight of the asphalt roller should not exceed 1,000 pounds. (The heat cable is designed to handle 8.9kN before the insulation is damaged, which will cause the cable to fail.) NOTE: A walk-behind roller imparts a force of between 5-18 kN.
    • Use a small power roller to compact asphalt over cable on sand, concrete, or ½-inch aggregate. A smaller roller will take more time, but decreases the chance of damaging the heating cable.
    • A roller with 30 kN or less is allowable when heating cable is in concrete and the concrete is then covered is asphalt.
    • When compacting/rolling on a grade, do not stop the roller. Stopping and resuming the roller may stretch and break the heat cable.
  • Do NOT dump large quantities of asphalt on small sections of the heating cables. Doing this may cause damage to the cable because of excessive, focused heat. Ideally, the asphalt should be applied by hand.

Installing a heated asphalt driveway

  • Do NOT cut or alter the heating cable. Mat tape may be cut, but the heating cable must never be cut.
  • Embed all of the heating cable and the splice in the asphalt. Allow asphalt to cool to a temperature of approx 212°F (100°C) before applying directly over the cable and splice.

Installing the cable splice in asphalt.

  • Manually lay the asphalt and spread the material evenly around and over the heating cables.
  • Heating cables are normally covered by 2-inches of asphalt. Leave a buffer of 4 to 6 inches of unheated asphalt around the edge of the heated area. This allows for adjustment of paving surface edges without damaging the heating cable.
  • Handle heating cables carefully – use extreme care with tools such as shovels, rakes and wheel barrels to avoid damaging the cables.
  • Verify cable integrity by checking resistance often during installation.
  • It is important that the snow melting system be wired by a licensed, qualified electrician and in accordance with local laws, codes, regulations, and NEC guidelines.
  • Ground sensors/cups should not be exposed to temperatures above 80°C (176°F).
  • A perimeter of a maximum of 12 inches of asphalt should exist around the embedded cables. This allows for adjustment of the paving surface edge without damaging the heating cable.

* This list is intended as a general quick reference guide. It is NOT a substitution for proper training and following the installation manual. Always read and follow the installation manual. Web-based training is available on request.

For more information about installing heated driveways and snow melting systems, visit Warmzone’s Installation Overviews web page. Warmzone also provides a host of radiant heat installation videos online as well. Call us today for more information at 888.488.9276.

Articles

Installation Tips – Installing a Snow Melting System in Concrete

Installation Tips for Installing a Snow Melting System in Concrete (Quick Reference Guide – Article 2 in a Series of 3)

Remember to check the element resistance and the insulation resistance of the heating cable/mat at the recommended intervals:

  1. In the box: Write the values on the warranty card.
  2. After being laid out: Write the values on the warranty card.
  3. After being covered: Write the values on the warranty card.
  4. Record your readings in the installation manual.
  • Ensure that all sharp stones and debris are removed from the area where the heating cable will be installed.
  • Place the remesh in preparation of the concrete pour.
  • Lay the cables/mats according to the plan and fasten them to the remesh or rebar (using plastic zip-lock ties) so that they do not move during the concrete pouring.
  • Do NOT allow heating cables to touch, cross, overlap or get bunched up.

wz-sm-Heating_Cable_Tips-Keeping_Your_Cable_Safe thumbnail

  • Do NOT cut or alter the heating cable. Mat tape may be cut, but the heating cable must never be cut. View the video How to Make Turns with mats.
  • Heating cable/mats should be spaced at no less than 2-inches center-to-center and no more than 4-inches center-to-center. This also applies to adjacent heating mats.
  • Secure the heating cable to the wire mesh or grid using plastic zip ties. Make sure that the cable/mats and the wire mesh are secure so that they will not move or shift when the concrete is being poured.
  • The heating cable will need to be positioned 2-inches from the surface of the concrete. Use wire remesh and Mesh-Ups or concrete dobies/chairs to position the heating cable within 2-inches of the surface. The heating cable/mat should never rest on the ground.

Placing Mesh-Ups under cable and remesh

  • Do not allow heating cable to cross an expansion joint. Control joints are allowable under the following conditions:
    • The joint is tooled or cut NO deeper than 1¼-inches.
    • A 6-inch piece of ¼-inch angle iron is recommended to protect the cable any place where a control joint will pass over it. The heating cable is tightly strapped to the angle iron with plastic zip ties.
    • Mark the forms where the angle irons are located to accurately place the control joints.
    • The cable must be ¾ to 1-inch below the bottom of the joint. (Do NOT tool joints deeper than 1½ inches. Stay above heating cables.)
  • Embed all of the heating cable and the splice. The cold lead on the heat cable and mats is not rated for direct burial in earth and must be run through a conduit. (The first 6-inches of the cold lead and splice must be embedded in the heated surface.) See the illustration showing the installation of the heat cable and power lead.
  • Handle heating cables carefully. Use extreme care with tools such as shovels, rakes and wheel barrels to avoid damaging the cables.
  • Verify cable integrity by checking resistance often during installation.
  • It is important that wiring of the system is completed by a licensed and qualified electrician and in accordance with local laws, codes, regulations, and NEC guidelines.

* These tips are meant for quick reference. It is NOT a substitution for proper training and following the installation manual. Always read and follow the installation manual. Web-based training is available on request.

View Warmzone installation videos.

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Installation Tips – Installing a Snow Melting System Under Pavers

Installing Heat Cable under Pavers (Quick Reference Guide – Article 3 in a Series of 3)

Remember to check the element resistance and the insulation resistance of the heating cable/mat at the recommended intervals:

  1. In the box: Write the values on the warranty card.
  2. After being laid out: Write the values on the warranty card.
  3. After being covered: Write the values on the warranty card.
  4. Record your readings in the installation manual.

When laying out the cable, DO NOT allow heating cables to touch, cross, overlap or get bunched up. Minimum allowable spacing is 2 inches.

Begin installation as close as possible to the electrical source.

Heated driveway with brick pavers

DO NOT cut or alter the heating cable. The white binding tape of heating mats may be cut in order to make turns with the mats, but the heat cable must never be cut or altered.

ClearZone heating cable in mat and rolled.

To secure the cable, lay down a piece of thin wire mesh that fits the area to be heated. The wire mesh should be secured to the ground (with landscaping staples or pins) so it will not move during the embedment process.

Roll out the heating cable or mat and secure it to the wire mesh or grid using plastic zip ties. Heating cables should be securely fastened so they do not move or shift during embedment.

Heating cable should be spaced at no less than 2-inches center-to-center and no more than 4-inches center-to-center. This also applies to the cables in adjacent heating mats.

Contact paver or block manufacturer for total sand or dust depth needed for proper paver/block installation.

Sideview of heat cable installed under pavers

Embed all of the heating cable and the splice in a minimum of 1-inch (½-inch above and ½-inch below) of compacted material such as paver sand or stone dust. Cable and splice must be completely embedded. No air gaps around the cable or splice are allowable. Gauge of paver sand, stone dust or base material must be fine enough to completely encapsulate cable.

Do NOT drop pavers directly on the cable. (This can damage the cable insulation.)  If this occurs, stop installation and check cable integrity via ohm reading.

Handle heating cables carefully – use extreme care with tools such as shovels, rakes and wheel barrels to avoid damaging the cables.

Verify cable integrity by checking resistance often during installation.

It is important that this equipment be installed by a licensed and qualified electrician and in accordance with local laws, codes, regulation and in accordance with NEC guidelines.

If installing in permeable pavers or with pavers or blocks greater than 3-inches thick, contact Warmzone BEFORE installing.

* This list is intended as a general quick reference guide. It is NOT a substitution for proper training and following the installation manual. Always read and follow the installation manual. Web-based training is available on request.

Heated paver walkway

For more information about installing heated driveways and paver snowmelt systems, visit Warmzone’s Installation Overviews web page. Warmzone also provides a host of radiant heat installation videos online as well. Call us today for more information at 888.488.9276.

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Power Requirements and Operating Costs of a Heated Driveway

Understanding the Power Requirements for a Heated Driveway

Are you looking to install a radiant heated driveway for your home or business? If so, one of the first questions you need to answer is whether you have the necessary power requirements. In most cases, having the power needed to run an efficient radiant snow melting system is not a problem. However, prior to any installation, customers must ensure that they do meet the power requirements for heating their driveways and or walks.

Heated driveway with four heated tire tracks

So, just how does one go about determining the power requirements for heating a specific area and how does one know whether the necessary power is available? First of all, you don’t have to figure this out by yourself. Warmzone’s experienced reps are happy to work with you to not only help you determine the necessary power requirements, but to design a system that best meets your specific snow melting and budget needs.

But homeowners should be aware of some basic guidelines when shopping for radiant heat. For example, one 30-amp breaker supplies enough power to heat a 170-square foot area. To heat a driveway of 350-square feet, two 30-amp breakers (or one 60-amp breaker) would be needed. Homeowners can check their home’s main breaker panel to see the power coming into the house. (Typical homes feature either two 100 amp panels or two 200 amp breakers. These are located at the top of the main breaker box, above the main breaker panel.) But the bottom line, in terms of power requirements, is that an electrician is ultimately the one to address all power issues. If you have questions about available power, talk with Warmzone as well as a qualified electrician to make certain there are no issues should you choose to move forward with the installation.

If you’re unsure of the square footage of your driveway, no worries; Warmzone can calculate that for you too. In most areas, using a special state-of-the-art technology, Warmzone can measure the area of your driveway while talking on the phone with you. Our helpful staff will work closely with you to ensure that the square footage of the area is measured correctly and the power requirements are therefore calculated properly.

Zoning Your Driveway Heating System

On rare occasions when there is insufficient power available to operate a large driveway heating system, the radiant heat system can be laid out in zones. Each zone is powered separately. As a storm first hits, zone 1 would power up and melt the snow in that area of the driveway. After zone 1, zone 2 would then activate to melt the snow in that area of the driveway. Click here for more detailed information about zoning your heated driveway.

Determining the Operating Cost of an Electric Heated Driveway

Homeowners are also keen to know the general operating costs of a heated driveway. Because radiant snow melting systems are specially designed for the specific demands of the average temperature and snowfall of their location, no two radiant heat systems are exactly alike. However, there is a formula that can be used to help you determine the approximate operating cost of a snow melting system.

General Guidelines to Determine a Heated Driveway’s Operating Cost

  1. Determine the total square footage of the area that will be heated. (The average American home has an 800 square foot driveway.)
  2. Multiply the square footage by the heat required (37 watts per sq. ft. for residential). This will give you a total for the watts per square footage required.
  3. Divide this number by 1,000 to convert to kilowatts.
  4. Look up the kilowatts-per-hour rate from the local power utility company.
  5. Multiply the kilowatts by the kilowatt rate. This gives you the cost-per-hour of usage for the snow melting system.

EXAMPLE for heating an 800 square foot driveway:
800 (sq.ft.) x 37 (watts) = 29,600 (total watts).

29,600 divided by 1,000 = 29.6 kw per hour. (This is what the power company will charge you per one hour of operation.) The average utility rate is .12 cents, therefore: 29.6 x .12 = $3.55. The cost of operation would be $3.55 per hour.

The operating cost of an automated snow melting system is typically less than that of hiring a professional snow removal service. And radiant heat can help to extend the life of concrete driveways and keeps them from being subjected to abrasive snow removal methods or harsh snowmelt chemicals or salt. Safety is particularly important for business owners who wish to avoid costly litigation due to personal injuries caused by slick ice. For more information on driveway heating systems, call Warmzone today at 888.488.9276.

Other helpful, informative web pages:

  1. ClearZone snow melting
  2. Heated Driveways
  3. Installing a Heated Driveway
  4. Snow Melting System Installation Tips
HOTNEWS

The Versatility of Snow Melting Systems

The Versatility of Radiant Snow melting Systems

Because of the reliability and versatility of radiant heat snow melting systems, these solutions are proving to be popular home improvement and new construction projects. And because radiant heat systems are so easy to customize, homeowners can flex their creative muscles when it comes to installing these systems.

Warmzone radiant heat systems are easily configurable to use in a variety of applications, whether you want to heat an entire driveway, tire tracks, steps, sidewalk or porch, etc. The cables can also be installed under a variety of mediums, such as brick/stone pavers, concrete and asphalt, providing you with endless possibilities when it comes to enhancing your home’s curb appeal.  Whatever your goals and budget, you’ll find a range of versatile, affordable radiant snow melting systems flexible enough to conform to your specific needs.

Snow melting heat cable laid out for asphalt heated driveway.

One of the most popular, affordable, and easy to install applications for radiant heat is asphalt. Where asphalt gives and flexes according to a wide-range of seasonal temperature changes, the specially designed Warmzone heat cable ensures consistent, effective performance to keep driveways clear of snow and ice in all the conditions. Designed specifically for installation in hot asphalt applications, ClearZone heat cable is rated up to 460 degrees for up to 10 minutes. For additional technical specs and installation information, please refer to the ClearZone installation manual.

ClearZone heat cable is available off the spool or pre-spaced in mats. The mats can be rolled out for quick and easy placement over the area to be heated. Cable off the spool allows greater flexibility for custom shapes and hard-to-reach areas of snow melting systems. In the case of a retrofitting an asphalt driveway with radiant heat, the cable is simply placed on the existing asphalt and new asphalt is then applied on top. A compacted layer of 2 inches is recommended. Refer to the installation manual for compacting instructions. (In addition to the benefits of heating asphalt applications, snow melting systems can also prolong the life of concrete driveways and pavers as well.)

If you’re seriously considering heating an asphalt driveway or ramp, be sure to take advantage of Warmzone’s unparalleled customer services, including free installation training, installation support, system design and layout, and online installation tips and guides.

A Few Helpful Installation Tips:

  • Heating cables should never touch, cross, overlap or get bunched up. A minimum cable spacing of 2 inches is required.
  • Check the maximum rated heat temperature of the heating cables before you apply hot asphalt. The asphalt must not exceed this temperature.
  • Pouring small quantities of asphalt on the heating cables helps to ensure a safe installation and prevent damage to the cables.
  • Never cut or alter heating cable. To accommodate your layout needs, cut the tape backing of the cable mats, but do not cut the heat cable.
  • Manually lay the asphalt, and be sure to spread it evenly around and over the heating cables.
  • Always handle heating cables with care—especially when using tools such as shovels, rakes and wheel barrels to avoid damaging the cables. When using wheelbarrows, lay down sheets of plywood over the cable to avoid damaging the cable’s outer jacket.
  • Use a Megger to consistently check the cable resistance during installation.

Whether you choose to go with Warmzone radiant snow melting solutions, an understanding of the proper installation, in accordance with your local laws, codes and regulations is important. Call us toll-free at 888-488-9276. Our professionals are available and always happy to answer any questions you may have.

Warmzone Provides a Wealth of Online Information for Customers

Warmzone offers a wealth of information online regarding just about anything and everything radiant heat related. And the best part—it’s all free.

While you may be tempted to visit your local hardware store or big box chain for a do-it-yourself kit, it’s important to keep in mind that these one-size-fits-all approaches to radiant heated systems can be risky, particularly if you are tackling a radiant heat project for the first time. Once you choose one of these off-the-shelf solutions, you may be hard pressed to find anyone to answer your questions. What consumers must understand is that a radiant heat system is only as good as its installation.

Laying out snow melting mats
Warmzone offers a large selection of helpful “how to” videos for installing radiant heat.

Warmzone has taken the sting (and the stigma) out of home improvement projects with informative, easy-to-follow videos on all things radiant heat related. Warmzone’s comprehensive video library includes time lapse videos and detailed “how to” clips of installations you can watch again and again, any time of the day or night. You’ll also find plenty of tips and tricks from the pros at Warmzone to help make your installation a success.

Stuck on a step or concerned about a technical aspect of a project?  Warmzone offers more detailed instruction on topics ranging from simple cable placement to cable testing, so you can be assured you’ll have your radiant heat snow melting system up and running in no time. As far as thoughtful extras go, there’s even a video to help you fill out warranty information for your recently purchased Warmzone radiant heat system to help keep you covered. Best of all, you also have access to personal installation support from a Warmzone radiant heat expert.

If you’re a hands-on type of learner, you may want to shorten the learning curve with Warmzone’s free webinar training. Warmzone’s valuable online installation training program has helped many contractors and ambitious do-it-yourselfers learn the art of radiant heat installation. Once you call and register, you can login and participate in real-time training to learn how to properly install ClearZone snow melting systems, roof deicing or floor heating systems with confidence. For those in the area, you can attend in person at Warmzone’s headquarters in Salt Lake City.

Sometimes all you need is a little time to “hit the books.” In the Warmzone online library you’ll find plenty of detailed information and product literature posted to help you with your studies. Simply click on a link to familiarize yourself with manuals, user guides, installation diagrams and more. In addition to links, Warmzone also offers downloadable versions of these resources for free. All you have to do is ask!

If you haven’t purchased a radiant heat system yet, it’s worth the call to Warmzone at 888-488-9276. You can discuss your radiant heat system requirements with a professional who can give you a free schematic, help you select the products for the job or set you up with an experienced contractor in your area to install your radiant heated snow melting system.

HOTNEWS

Heated Floors – Radiant Heat for any Surface

Considering an electric radiant heated floor system for your home? Let Warmzone be your “go to” for solid solutions to your heating needs. Warmzone offers a wide variety of heating systems that are flexible enough to be installed under just about any type of surface.

Heated tile floor

Basically there are two types of radiant heat—hydronic and electric, and certainly Warmzone can handle the installation of both. Electric radiant heat systems feature rapid response times, easy installation at a cost most homeowners are comfortable with. And it just so happens that Warmzone carries a full line of products perfect for a variety of electric radiant heated floor applications and a variety of surfaces:

ComfortTile cable is less than ¼ of an inch in thickness and is installed in thinset so there is no floor buildup. With a durable, stainless steel braid covering, the cable is perfect right off the spool for custom shaped flooring projects involving tile, marble and slate surfaces, among others. The cable also comes pre-configured in mats that are low-profile for ease of installation.

FilmHeat floor heating panels provide one of the best values for installing radiant heat under laminate and floating floors. The near paper-thin heating element is laid out directly under the floating floor without any need for adhesives, making it quick, easy, and affordable to install.

Warmzone FloorHeat is a low-voltage, self-regulating heating element that operates efficiently and enjoys a long life by design. The flexible heating element is thin, requires no floor buildup and can be easily secured to the subfloor with adhesive, staples or pegs. Panels can be cut to length on site and installed under most floor coverings, including tile, stone, resilient, laminate, hardwood and carpet, making for easy installation under a variety of surfaces.

And for those concerned about the invasive nature of radiant floor heat, there’s RetroHeat radiant heat elements that can be retrofitted to existing floors with minimal effort between floor joists to efficiently heat your floors. Heat panels are available for joists with 12, 16 and 24-inch spacing and can be cut on site, so they’re easy to work with for a contractor or do-it-yourselfer.

With so many choices there’s bound to be a solution from Warmzone to fit your budget and project requirements. Give them a call today to find out how Warmzone can help you find the perfect radiant heated flooring solution for you at 888.488.9276.

ClearZone Radiant Snow Melting Systems: The Perfect Fit for Your Driveway

Warmzone offers several high quality heated driveway and radiant snow melting systems available for both commercial and residential applications. Among their most popular products you’ll find ClearZone cable, a trusted, popular snow and ice melting solution among homeowners and professional builders alike, and a great solution for snow removal during the cold winter months.

Snow melting system installed under pavers

ClearZone electric snowmelt cable is incredibly energy efficient, fully automated, maintenance free and easy to install. Plus, it’s readily customizable to meet the needs of just about any project, including retrofitting existing driveways. That’s because ClearZone snow heat cable can be purchased on the spool in a form that’s durable, versatile and easily configured for use in a variety of applications. This trusted, popular snow melting solution allows for greater flexibility so it’s good for custom layouts, or for use in large snow melting jobs and unconventionally shaped areas.

If you’re a do-it-yourselfer or contractor with limited experience in radiant heat installation, it may be more beneficial to choose ClearZone Radiant Snow Melting Mats. They’re basically ClearZone heat cable pre-spaced in mats to create a convenient, versatile design. The heat cable is pre-spaced and attached to a durable backing for proper cable spacing and easy “roll-out” installation. The backing can be cut on site so mats can be installed around corners and odd layouts.

ClearZone cable is also designed for installation under a variety of applications, from new concrete pours to paver stones. Whether pre-configured or right off the spool, it can easily withstand the hot temperatures of new asphalt construction jobs and installation is easy. Asphalt is spread directly over the rugged ClearZone heat cable and then compacted. Embedded, fully automated ClearZone radiant heat snow melting provides a discreet, reliable snowmelt solution for your driveway or sidewalks.

For heated stone or brick paver driveways and sidewalks, the cable is laid out in the bedding material of the driveway or sidewalk to be heated before a bed of sand is applied. The pavers can then be directly placed over the new heat cable.

Heated driveway in Idaho

If you’re current plans don’t involve a new driveway, Warmzone has the expertise to retrofit a system for you inexpensively. ClearZone radiant heat cable can be easily laid over existing asphalt and secured using clips and nails, followed by a few shovels of new asphalt. The good news–the cable only requires a ½ inch of asphalt, a minimal amount (when you consider the cost of an entirely new driveway) to operate properly and provide quick, efficient, effective snow removal.

A ClearZone snow melting system can also be installed in existing driveways using saw-cut technology. Grooves are cut into the existing concrete or asphalt to allow for a proper retrofit. The cable is laid into the grooves and then sealed with an epoxy topcoat (for asphalt, an additional layer of asphalt is added).

To learn more about ClearZone snow melting cable, contact Warmzone at 888.488.9276 or go to www.warmzone.com.

Articles

Clearing Streets and Driveways of Snow in Chicago

Snow removal in Chicago is serious business. While commuters depend on the city to keep roads clear so they can travel to and from work, homeowners also have the responsibility to do their share of snow removal. According to the Municipal Code of Chicago (4-4-310 and 10-8-180), property owners and occupants are responsible for keeping sidewalks clear of snow and ice. But lately, winters have been record-setting in terms of snowfall, making it difficult for city snow plow drivers as well as homeowners to keep up with the demands of snow removal.

And last year, Chicago residents got an early dose of winter with the second heaviest November snowstorm since 1895. In fact, several parts of the country experienced record setting storms and snowfall during the winter of 2015-2016. And weather experts expect more of the same for the next several upcoming winters.

But Chicago residents have options when it comes to preparing for the next snow season. In addition to having extra supplies on hand and keeping the cupboards and refrigerator well stocked, some Illinois residents are turning to radiant heat.

Radiant snow melting system installed in a loading ramp
A radiant heated loading ramp in operation during a snowstorm.

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.

Electric snow melting systems are fully automated, so they operate only when needed. The systems include an advanced snow sensor that detects temperature and precipitation. When temperatures are 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 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’s fully automated system includes the embedded heat cable, an activation device (snow sensor), contactor panel, and marker plate (as required by the NEC). These electric systems are also maintenance free and relatively easy to install.

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 materials, proper 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. Our expert staff is on hand during your installation if you need. Should your installer have any questions during the installation, 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.