Category Archives: HOTNEWS

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! 

HOTNEWS

Researching Radiant Heat and Finding the Right Provider

The Services and Resources to Look for When Considering the Installation of Radiant Heat

From the initial idea of adding radiant heat to your new or existing home to the actual purchase and installation can be somewhat intimidating for homeowners. Where do you start? What should you be looking for, and what are the options?

Judging from past customers, radiant heat is a proven, worthwhile investment that provides very efficient and luxurious warmth using clean renewable energy. Radiant heated floors continue to gain popularity because of their efficiency as well as the rich, comfortable heat that they produce.

Find a provider that includes complete system design services and a large selection of products and services – from different manufacturers. Warmzone is one provider that offers a dynamic range of radiant floor heating systems. Because of the diverse selection, Warmzone can evaluate your specific needs and recommend the system that will best meet your budget and heating demands. So, if you’re considering installing a heated floor, view Warmzone’s Floor Heating Overview web page to gain some general information about the different systems. Then call a Warmzone representative to discuss the various possibilities and the advantages of each system (888.488.9276). Our staff features experienced professionals who are happy to consult with prospective customers without any pushy sales pressure.

Heated driveway and radiant heat installation support

Warmzone includes professional installation support services.

And when it comes to customer service, you won’t find a provider that offers better customer services. Warmzone services include FREE installation training for installers, detailed system design and layout services, technical support, free consulting, and a wealth of online documentation, videos and information resources. We take pride in our unparalleled personal services as well as our industry leading products.

Warmzone snow melting systems are also among the very best available. Warmzone continues to be a leader in offering the latest technology with the most trusted and proven systems. Warmzone heated driveways and snow melting systems are easy to customize to match the budget and performance requirements of each customer.

ClearZone heat cable is the longstanding backbone of Warmzone’s exceptional snow melting systems. In addition to the heating element, Warmzone driveway heating systems also feature a contactor panel/controller and either a ground-mount snow sensor or an aerial mount sensor. These advanced activation devices detect precipitation and temperature, so when conditions warrant, the sensor triggers the system and the driveway begins to heat. The system continues to operate for a short time after the storm to ensure that the driveway is dry, eliminating slick, dangerous ice.

Fully automated, energy efficient, and featuring quiet, clean operation, Warmzone snow melting systems continue to be a favorite among contractors and professional installers.

For more information, call us at 888.488.9276 and speak with a radiant heat consultant. Also take advantage of our online information resources and view radiant heat installation videos, monthly newsletters, product literature and more. We think that the more you research and compare radiant heat companies, the more impressed you’ll be with Warmzone. Call or email us today for a free quote.

HOTNEWS

The Benefits and Custom Options of Heated Driveways and Snow Melting Systems

Radiant Heat Can be Tailored to Your Specific Needs and Budget

Heated driveway systems are surefire ways to enhance safety for businesses located in cold weather climates. From grocery stores to restaurants and car washes, business owners are turning to radiant heat to ensure safety and protect themselves from liability claims.

Warmzone radiant heat systems are fully automated, so there’s no need for business owners to show up at the workplace early to shovel snow. The automated systems activate when an aerial or ground-mount snow sensor detects precipitation and temperatures are below a set point (typically 39°F). The energy efficient snow melting systems operate only when needed, and are also maintenance free – another favorite feature among business owners.

Easy to Customize

Radiant snow melting systems are easy to customize. Electric snowmelt systems can be installed to heat unique shapes and areas, and can be tailored to best meet the client’s budget needs. In addition to heating entire driveways and sidewalks, some other popular layout options for heating driveways include:

Heating tire tracks: Rather than heating an entire driveway, install two 24-inch wide heated tire tracks.

Heated driveway with two heated tire tracks

Heating the Center Strip or High Traffic Areas: Heat only an 8 or 10-foot wide strip up the middle of the driveway. Or install heat cable only in the most trafficked area of your driveway. Heat trouble spots such as inclines or where shade often causes ice buildup. Instead of heating an entire sidewalk, just warm a 3-foot wide strip in the middle; or heat the steps and heavily trafficked areas of entry points and porches. Businesses often install radiant heat to melt snow and ice in parking areas and walkways near the store front as well as in loading docks and ramps.

Custom heated driveways and sidewalks

Heating specific/custom areas: Many consumers install radiant heat only for specific needs. For example, heat dog runs or kennels to keep outdoor pets comfortable, or only heat the sloped areas of a sidewalk or just the steps. The options are virtually limitless when it comes to installing heated driveways.

Heated cement steps

Visit Warmzone’s heated driveway web page for more detailed information. The information includes sections on how heated driveways work, determining the operating cost, how heated driveways work and more.

From small, custom snow melting projects to large commercial applications, radiant snow melting systems have proven to be the reliable, cost effective solution for homeowners and business owners alike.

Heated driveway and walks

Unlike other providers of radiant heat systems, Warmzone offers free installation training courses for installers, as well as complete system design and layout services and installation support. Dealing with Warmzone makes the process of finding and installing the best system easy for customers.

Information Resources:

HOTNEWS

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.

HOTNEWS

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

Timing is Everything

Don’t get Caught Holding the Shovel next Winter — Install a Radiant Snow Melting System and Beat the Rush!

With summer just around the corner, it’s a good time to spring for a new radiant heated driveway or walkway. Buying and installing your radiant heated snow melting system early in the summer puts you at a distinct advantage. In the fall, contractors generally rush to get their projects done before winter, and their availability is limited. Hiring someone now could save you the heartache of putting off that heated driveway or walkway project for another season. Shopping contractors before the fall rush also allows you to take your time interviewing and selecting a professional.

Whether you’re pouring a new concrete or repairing existing pavement, radiant heat installation is an excellent way to enhance, preserve and protect your driveway or walkway from harsh snow melting chemicals or damage from snow removal equipment. It’s a smart home investment that not only preserves and protects your property, but can also prevent slip and fall accidents, as well as injury from shoveling. Snow melting systems can also save you the time, and over time, the added expense of hiring a contractor to plow your driveway. With radiant heated driveways and walkways, you get “on-demand” snow removal, and the opportunity to experience dry pavement all year round. And the systems operate silently on renewable energy and are fully automated.

Heated paver driveway

As you shop, be leery of the contractor who offers limited solutions that come with a high price tag. Radiant heat applications are extremely flexible and adaptable, offering homeowners many options to achieve their goals. You don’t have to tear up your entire driveway to enjoy the benefits of radiant heat. Rolling out pre-configured mats on top of an asphalt driveway and applying a new layer of asphalt over the cable, or cutting grooves in concrete for the heat cable (which are then filled with an epoxy) are just some of the ways to get around a new heated driveway installation.

To help you sort out your options you may also want to consider contacting Warmzone for a free snow melting system estimate. They have the knowledge and the know-how to put together a snow melting solution that will meet or even beat your performance and budgetary requirements.  Partnering with professional installers across the country, Warmzone works diligently to come up with solutions for the most discriminating customers. As they say, knowledge is power, and getting initial estimates from Warmzone before you shop can help you identify all of your options, and the right person for the job, to avoid the “sticker shock” that comes with choosing the wrong one. And remember, a radiant heat system is only as good as its installation, and Warmzone can recommend experienced, reputable installers in your area.

Among the many home improvement projects on your to-do list, a radiant heated snow melting system is the gift that just keeps on giving from the moment you see that first snowflake fall. Winter may seem a long way off, but the window for hiring a contractor to install your snow melting system is small. Whether you lack the motivation or need more information, it’s always a good idea to give Warmzone a call at 888.488.9276 for free professional advice and support.

HOTNEWS

An Easy, Affordable Solution for Ground Fault Protection Requirements

Warmzone Continues to Listen to Contractors and Serve the Needs of Homeowners

Electric snow melting, roof deicing and outdoor pipe heating systems installed in the United States and Canada require ground fault protection for safe operation. In many cases, when installing a snow melting system, these breakers can be expensive and difficult to find. However, thanks to Warmzone, this is no longer an issue.

In addition to offering contactor panels with ground fault protection, Warmzone also offers separate ground fault protection units with snow melting systems and activation devices. These units provide an inexpensive, easy-to-integrate solution to meet the NEC requirements for ground fault protection equipment.

The GF-1 unit provides single circuit protection and the GF-2 provides dual circuit protection (for 120/208/240VAC circuits up to 60A). Unlike highly sensitive GFCI breakers, Warmzone’s GF unit maintains a 30mA fault trip point to reduce nuisance tripping. The unit’s unique design allows installation of standard, off-the-shelf overload breakers into the customer load center. Size the breaker and wiring for the system (15A to 60A), then install the GF unit between the load center branch circuit and the sensor/controller and heat cable. The overload breaker protects the wiring while the GF unit provides the ground fault protection.

The unit is housed in a rugged, NEMA 4X/IP65 rated enclosure, suitable for indoor or outdoor installation. The enclosure features a gasket-sealed front access door for easy testing and reset. All internal electronic components are specified for -40°C to +60°C operation. The enclosure can be easily surface mounted near the load center or near the snow melting system, depending on the installer’s preference. Numerous knockout locations on the enclosure provide flexibility for installation and wiring. The enclosure base can accommodate standard ½ and ¾-inch conduit hubs. Four mounting holes outside the enclosure gasket make mounting a breeze while assuring weather-tight performance.

Ground fault protection unit enclosure
Enclosure for ground fault protection equipment

Features

  • Easy installation; convenient access for wiring
  • Works together with inexpensive, off-the-shelf overload circuit breakers
  • Provides true 30mA trip point GFPE protection
  • Meets NEC Article 426.28, 427.22, and CEC 62-300 requirements
  • Protects 120/208/240VAC systems up to 60A (#14-#6 CU-only conductor capacity)
  • Not Compatible With 277VAC or L-N-L 240VAC
  • UL listed (U.S. and Canada) NEMA 4X enclosure for indoor or outdoor installation
  • Latching, sealed, hinged front cover for easy testing and reset access
  • No overload rating means just two part numbers for simple stocking
  • Weatherproof and corrosion resistant enclosure
  • Operating temperature range of -40°F/C to +140°F/+60°C

The GF-1 and GF-2 can be used directly with Warmzone’s WS-2C, WS-5C and WS-8C aerial mount snow sensors. They can also be used with contactor panels, switches, and any system up to 60A. Since the overload protection is provided by the load center breaker, only two GF models are required to cover the full range of 15A to 60A, one or two circuits. This allows ground fault protection with kitted systems without the requirement of identifying the customer’s load center type or need to research if a combined overload/GFPE breaker is available and how long it will take to receive.

Including a GF unit completes the snow melting system and makes it ready to install. And the GF unit provides a ready-made solution when installing or retrofitting a snow melting system in an older facility that was wired well before the term “GFPE” was coined. It’s an easy upgrade to help bring an existing system into compliance with modern code requirements.

Including a GF unit completes the snow melting system and makes it ready to install. And the GF unit provides a ready-made solution when installing or retrofitting a snow melting system in an older facility that was wired well before the term “GFPE” was coined. It’s an easy upgrade to help bring an existing system into compliance with modern code requirements.

As your radiant heat partner, Warmzone makes the process of installing a snowmelt system as easy as possible. For more information, call 888.488.9276 today.

Finding the Right Roof Heating System

Keeping your roof free and clear of ice and snow comes down to proven radiant heating elements, proper system design, and proper installation. A good radiant heat solution is one that addresses all of the potential problem areas of your roof.  Warmzone offers a variety of roof heating solutions designed to not only melt snow and ice, but to keep the runoff flowing from your roof before it has a chance to freeze. Warmzone products are specifically designed to target all aspects of a roof, including gutters, downspouts, roof lines, roof eaves and edges—the places icicles, ice dams, and snow build-up are most likely to occur. To keep your roof free of ice and snow, it’s important to target the typical problem spots.

Heating Gutters, Edges and Problem Areas

Warmzone self-regulating heat cable is an extremely effective and energy efficient way to prevent ice dams and keep water flowing through gutters and downspouts. Comprised of a rugged, durable outer construction and an irradiated conductive core that responds to variations in temperature, this durable cable is the affordable choice for heating problem areas of your roof.

Heating Roof Edges

The single greatest snow and ice problem for roofs is due to ice dams. Snow and ice buildup occurs when runoff reaches the colder roof eaves and refreezes. Over time, the buildup increases, resulting in large dams of ice near the roof’s edge, causing water to pool behind it. As that water seeps under the shingles and refreezes, damage can occur, and may eventually lead to costly water damage inside the home.

Low-voltage roof heating element

Low-voltage RoofHeat STEP systems can be installed discreetly under the shingles to keep roof edges completely free of snow and ice. This advanced system utilizes a thin, semi-conductive polymer heating element that can be nailed or stapled through to make installation quick and easy. The self-regulating heating element is polypropylene fused during fabrication to achieve water proofing and protection from alkaline or salt damage.

A 24-inch roof heating panel for heating roof edges.             An 18-inch roof heating panel

Attractive roof deicing panels can also be installed to eliminate the possibility of ice dams. Available in a variety of sizes, these aluminum panels feature channels of self-regulating heat cable that effectively heats the aluminum to keep roof edges free of snow and ice. The panels have an attractive Kynar finish and can be used in new construction and on existing roofs with most types of roofing materials, including asphalt, wood shake shingles, tile, slate or standing seam metal. Visit our roof deicing panel documents page to learn more.

Heating Roof Valleys

Four and six-inch RoofHeat deicing panels are also available to heat roof valleys. Keeping these channels free of snow and ice facilitates runoff and helps to protect your roof by eliminating potential trouble spots. The Valley Panel system will create an open area (up to 10 inches) for water to safely flow from the roof through the valleys without the possibility of water refreezing over unheated portions of the roof. The Valley Panel roof heating system provides an aesthetic look to any structure while keeping a more efficient and cleaner method of eliminating ice dam issues in a valley or dormer.

Eliminating Icicles

For areas of your roof where gutters are not present heated roof edges can be used to channel water away from the structure. Heated Drip Edge systems are extremely effective in battling icicle build-up while maintaining the aesthetic look of the original roof. This is a common, reliable solution for businesses to ensure the safety and convenience of pedestrian traffic. These Kylar-finished edge lines are offered in a wide variety of materials, including steel, copper, aluminum and more, so they’re great for concealing wiring along the drip line to create a more attractive, polished appearance.  An existing metal roof can also be retrofitted with roof heating panels, which can be laid on top of the old metal roof, in direct contact with the self-regulating heat cable to prevent icicle formation.

Still not sure what you need for your roof? Our radiant heat experts work with customers to evaluate project challenges and determine an affordable roof deicing system that is best for your unique circumstances. Warmzone roof heating experts are also available to walk you through the process, from system selection to installation. Call 888.488.9276 for more information today.

HOTNEWS

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.

HOTNEWS

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.

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.