What better way to ring in the new year than by installing a radiant snow melting system? Warmzone snow melting systems feature industry-leading components, and offer a variety of benefits that make them popular among homebuilders today. In addition to eliminating the need to shovel and salt sidewalks, steps, and driveways during the winter months, the systems are fully automated, maintenance free, and extremely energy efficient.

The reason these systems are so efficient is not only because of the inherent characteristics of radiant heat, but because of the industry-leading controllers provided with the systems. Warmzone automated snow melting systems utilize advanced snow sensors (activation devices) that detect temperature as well as precipitation. Customers have the option of installing an in-ground sensor that is mounted directly in the pavement of the driveway, or installing an aerial-mount snow sensor.

Most residential driveway heating systems utilize the aerial-mount sensor. The small unit is typically mounted near the roofline where it has clear access to the elements. The WS-2C activation device features an adjustable setpoint, so when precipitation is detected, and the temperature is below the setpoint (usually set at 39°F), the sensor sends a signal to the contactor panel, which is typically mounted on a wall in the garage. When the panel receives the signal, it then sends power to the embedded heat cable in the driveway, warming the surface to eliminate snow from accumulating. The systems operate only when needed. (Warmzone offers contactor panels that are available with and without GFEP. These advanced panels are designed for electric and hydronic snow melting systems, with a variety available for all types of commercial and residential applications. The contactor panels are pre-wired and UL listed, complete with a NEMA 4 weatherproof enclosure, wiring diagram, terminal connection block and contactors.)

After the snowstorm, the system remains on for a short time. This “afterrun” function dries the driveway to reduce the chances of ice from forming. This is a valuable feature that helps to ensure safety. Different sensors are available to accommodate other types of snow melting and de-icing systems. The WS-5C is similar to the WS-2c aerial-mount sensor, but is designed for bigger heating loads, such as regulating cable operation in commercial driveways, sidewalks, ramps and more.

The WS-8C is another state-of-the-art aerial-mount sensor, but it designed specifically for roof de-icing systems. The activation device can be used for gutter, downspout, and small satellite antenna de-icing applications. The sealed, low voltage, remote mount precipitation sensor head can be installed in a downspout, the bottom of a gutter, or at the end of an antenna boom, up to 10 feet away from the main controller, which is typically mounted in a more convenient location.

In addition to Warmzone’s premium controllers and system components, Warmzone also includes the industry’s top customer support services. Radiant heat system experts design the system, and provide installers with a detailed AutoCAD, which includes the precise layout of the system components and materials, as well as the proper load calculations, breaker sizes, number of breakers, and other electrical information needed by your electrician. These detailed layouts serve as the roadmap for installers, and help to simplify the installation.

Additionally, Warmzone includes free installation training for installers. This valuable training can be completed online, via web conference, where the instructor covers every aspect of the installation. The installer can interact and ask questions at any time during the training, which includes installation photos, illustrations, and instructional video clips.

Technical support is also provided by Warmzone radiant heat experts. If installers encounter any issues, or have questions during the installation, they can simply call and talk with an installation expert. Warmzone stands ready to assist installers to help ensure that the system is installed correctly and operating as intended. Warmzone also maintains relationships with experienced installers throughout the country, so you may be recommended a trusted, experienced installer in your area.

For more information about radiant heat systems, and system components, contact a friendly Warmzone representative today, at 888-488-9276.