All posts by Warmzone Editor

Wisconsin Says Goodbye to Outdated Snow Melting Law

May 26, 2008 Warmzone Editor

Salt Lake City, UT (PRWEB) May 27, 2008 – Wisconsin governor, Jim Doyle, recently passed a law abolishing the 1980’s law banning heated sidewalks, stairs, entrances and pedestrian walkways in Wisconsin. Wisconsin was the only state to ban heated sidewalks in response to the 1970’s energy crisis.

In a state that received 100 plus inches of snow during the 2007-2008 winter, it is a wonder that the law was not repealed sooner. Many Wisconsin businesses and service providers, such as the Marathon County Public Library, waited for the law to abolish before beginning walkway and stairway construction projects. Safety was the biggest concern and reason behind installing a radiant heat snow melting system.

Current snow melting systems are more environmentally friendly than the use of salt and chemicals to melt the snow, which causes calcium chloride to run into rivers and water supplies. Radiant heat systems are more cost effective in the long run than continual salt dumping and removal, and also extend the life of the cement.

Snow melting systems carried at Warmzone use a sophisticated activation device that only turns the system on when it senses precipitation and temperatures are below 39 degrees Fahrenheit. Additional features include an adjustable temperature trigger point and an adjustable delay off cycle, which eliminates unnecessary energy usage. The ClearZone heated driveway cable consumes only 30-50 watts per square foot and its response time is the quickest snow melting system on the market (requires 30% less operation than other systems).

Best of all, the snow melt system runs on electricity, not fossil fuels. To make your snowmelt system the ultimate “environmentally friendly” radiant heating system, look into the possibilities of solar, wind, and hydro renewable energy sources.

It is recommended to install a snow melting and heated driveway system into new concrete, but radiant heat systems can also be installed in existing walkways, sidewalks and driveways. Concrete saw-cut technology and epoxy is typically used for retrofitting existing cement structures with radiant heat. For more information about installation and the latest snow melting technology, browse Warmzone’s website or call Warmzone at 888.488.WARM (9276).

About Warmzone
Warmzone’s mission is to match customer’s needs with the finest radiant heating systems available. As an intermediary between project requirements and a variety of system choices, Warmzone and warmzone.com offer non-biased, individualized solutions that factor the installation, durability, performance and operational investment as the key criteria of their customers.

Press Releases

Warmzone Donates Radiant Heat System to the Colorado Parade of Homes

April 17, 2008 Warmzone Editor

April 17, 2008 – Warmzone recently donated ComfortTile radiant heat cables to the Colorado Parade of Homes. The radiant floor heating system was installed under tile floors in the master spa and coffee bar area of the luxury home, complementing the innovative design and elegance of the Bella Paradiso home. The custom home was built by Bartran Construction.

Ceramic tile was used for much of the home’s flooring, which posed a significant challenge for the builders in terms of finding an efficient solution for heating the home. ComfortTile radiant floor heating cables proved to be the ideal solution for the spatial house, serving as an efficiently heat source while keeping the construction process simple and on schedule. The electric radiant floor heating system was installed quickly and easily, providing the tiled floor areas with comfortable, efficient heat. The Warmzone floor heating system also has a fast response time, resulting in instant, evenly heated floors.

“What really surprised us was how easy the system was to install. The system went in flawlessly and without any setbacks. The installation instructions were clear and easy to read, and Warmzone’s tech support was so helpful in explaining and researching any questions that we had. As a large custom home, heating all of these areas was interesting, but once we hooked up the ComfortTile radiant heating system it was amazing how evenly and effectively the system produced heat. It will be a pleasant living environment for our customers to wake up to. I will be recommending your product on all of my jobs,” said Dan Zeigler, Superintendent of Bartran Construction, Inc.

The goal of the construction team was to build a home with elegance and tranquility, and was reminiscent of the charm of Northern Italy. Warmzone was the perfect compliment to the great features such as a chef’s center, butler’s pantry, a grand hall that accesses the gallery, and 2,000 sq. feet of outdoor living. The master suite includes a relaxation room that opens into a morning loggia, where the radiant floor heating was installed. No house claiming to be inspired by Italy can be complete without a wine cellar, wine tasting room, and wet bar.

The discovery of the superior comfort of under-floor heat has long since found popularity in European countries. More and more people in the United States seeking the same quality of living are modeling their homes with a European flare. Installing radiant floor heat is the simplest and quickest way to get there, especially for the remodel of existing homes. Warmzone will be there every step of the way, and offers full support, including a network of qualified installers across the country.

Warmzone and warmzone.com are registered marks and are the property of their respective owners.

Press Releases

Warmzone Offers In-Slab Heating Cable for Indoor Radiant Floor Heating

April 15, 2008 Warmzone Editor

April 15, 2008 – Making a good thing better, Warmzone is adding to its most popular line of radiant heat products to reach an even wider range of users and radiant heat applications. The In-Slab floor heating system is now available for indoor radiant heating in both residential and commercial settings.

The In-Slab floor heating system can be lower in cost than the popular CT system, making radiant heating accessible to more people for their building projects. The In-Slab heating cable and radiant heat system works best in new concrete construction and can be installed under any flooring in both wet and dry environments. In-Slab radiant heating cable offers great features such as: durability, energy efficiency, a 10-year manufacturer warranty, safety approved, and versatility for rooms or walkways of any size and shape.

The In-Slab system can be installed by any competent do-it-yourselfer, or by a preferred Warmzone installer in your area. (However, be sure to have a licensed electrician wire the system.) The In-Slab radiant heat system is controlled by a thermostat with a built-in GFCI and in-floor sensor. The thermostat also has a built-in clock that allows you to program up to four events per day, with the option to manually change for a single event.

Electric radiant heating systems have been gaining popularity throughout Northern America, and many upscale resorts are installing radiant heat to entice customers seeking luxury amenities. Radiant heat is no longer thought of as only a luxury, but as an efficient means to heat homes or work spaces without the use of fossil fuels. The benefits of electric radiant heat extend far beyond added comfort, providing home owners and businesses a green alternative heating solution.

Warmzone and warmzone.com are registered marks and are the property of their respective owners.

Press Releases

Warmzone Offers Powerblanket Concrete Curing Blankets

April 2, 2008 Warmzone Editor

Cold weather is a common roadblock to pouring concrete and completing construction projects. Despite the arrival of spring, the ground can remain frozen for a considerable time, further delaying projects and adding to construction costs. A heated, insulated concrete curing blanket from Warmzone is a simple, energy-efficient solution for pouring concrete and completing quality cement work in cold conditions.

Salt Lake City, UT (PRWEB) April 2, 2008 – Pouring concrete in cold weather is usually not a good idea. Even with the arrival of warmer temperatures, the ground can still remain frozen in many parts of the country. Typically, this means that construction projects involving concrete must wait until the ground thaws.

With the close of winter, most do-it-yourself types are eager to tackle projects that have been “on hold” during the cold season. However, in early spring, temperatures can still dip below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, and at that temperature freshly-poured concrete can freeze or not cure properly.

The Powerblanket is an ideal solution to pouring concrete in cold weather. Electrically-heated Powerblankets are extremely durable, weatherproof concrete curing blankets for home and construction projects. From large outdoor projects to small indoor needs, versatile Powerblankets are available in a variety of sizes and designed to link together to fit the specific space requirements of your projects.

Most people try to use blankets or straw to keep concrete from freezing in cold weather. However just keeping the concrete from freezing isn’t enough. “No amount of blankets or straw will thaw frozen ground, and the last thing you want to do is pour concrete on frozen ground,” notes Warmzone Executive VP of Sales, Brandon Weaver.

While it may be possible able to trap in some heat, this insulation won’t keep the temperature at an ideal level for maximum curing efficiency. “To pour concrete you need to have the temperature between 65 – 85° Fahrenheit – both to lay a strong foundation and to save hours and hours of time. Powerblanket is a solution,” notes Weaver, adding that the blankets are energy efficient.

The colder the temperature that concrete gets exposed to, the longer it will take to set and reach its maximum strength. For example, concrete that is steady at 70°F will set in approximately six hours, but at 40°F it will take 14 hours. At 70°F your concrete will be almost three times as strong as it would be if temperatures maintained at 40°F.

Powerblankets can be used for other insulation and warming needs in cold water, including: engine warming, bucket heating, wall curing, ground thawing, equipment warming, frozen pipe thawing, curb and gutter thawing, etc. The curing blankets can also be used on cement walls and columns.

The rugged Powerblanket is safe to handle in inclement weather and is extremely durable. The insulated, vinyl covered blankets can be driven on, pulled over rebar, dragged through mud and water, buried, and then rolled up or folded until it is needed again. Powerblankets can be a tremendous asset to contractors and do-it-yourselfers by preventing construction delays as well as enhancing the quality of cement work. The applications of the Powerblanket are virtually limitless.

Articles

Warmzone Offers Powerblanket Concrete Curing Blankets

April 1, 2008 Warmzone Editor

Pouring concrete in cold weather is usually not a good idea. Even with the arrival of warmer temperatures, the ground can still remain frozen in many parts of the country. Typically, this means that construction projects involving concrete must wait until the ground thaws.

The Powerblanket^® is an ideal solution to pouring concrete in cold weather. Electrically-heated Powerblankets are extremely durable, weatherproof concrete curing blankets for home and construction projects. From large outdoor projects to small indoor needs, versatile Powerblankets are available in a variety of sizes and designed to link together to fit the specific space requirements of your projects.

Powerblanket concrete curing mats and barrel warmers

Most people try to use blankets or straw to keep concrete from freezing in cold weather. However just keeping the concrete from freezing isn’t enough. “No amount of blankets or straw will thaw frozen ground — and the last thing you want to do is pour concrete on frozen ground,” noted Warmzone National Sales Manager, Bryan Morris.

While it may be possible able to trap in some heat, this insulation won’t keep the temperature at an ideal level for maximum curing efficiency. “To pour concrete you need to have the temperature between 65 – 85° Fahrenheit – both to lay a strong foundation and to save hours and hours of time. Powerblanket is a solution,” Morris added. The durable blankets are also energy efficient.

The rugged Powerblanket is safe to handle in inclement weather and is extremely durable. The insulated, vinyl covered blankets can be driven on, pulled over re-bar, dragged through mud and water, buried, and then rolled up or folded until it is needed again. Powerblankets can be a tremendous asset to contractors and do-it-yourselfers by preventing construction delays as well as enhancing the quality of cement work. The applications of the Powerblanket are virtually limitless.

Articles

Electric Radiant Heat

February 5, 2008 Warmzone Editor

Electric radiant heating systems are very cost-effective solutions for smaller spaces (1-5 rooms) because they are easy to install and have a very low start-up cost. An electric thermostat is all that is required and costs only about $100-$200. Another advantage of electric radiant floor heating over a warm-water system is the floor build up or height. Floor build up can be from as little as 2mm. The electric cables are usually installed onto an insulation board or directly onto the subfloor or padding (under carpet or laminate), then the floor covering is placed directly over the heating system or thinset.

Electric radiant floor heating also benefits from faster installation times, with a typical installation only taking half day to a day depending on size to install. Also warm up times are generally a lot quicker than “wet” systems because the cables are installed directly below the finished flooring making it a direct acting heat source rather than a storage heater.

Electric radiant heat used to be supplied as one long continuous length of cable with the consumer having to weave the cable up and down the floor at a pre-determined spacing and making a return loop to complete the circuit. The main problem with this was the installation time taking quite a while, and also the risk of hot and cold spots due to uneven cable spacing, cables spaced close together give off more heat, and visa versa.

Recent designs in electric radiant heat cables have a built in return meaning that you only have one end to connect instead of having to close the circuit by bringing each end of the cable back to the thermostat. These are excellent electric radiant heat cables and make the installation much quicker. With the introduction of the built in return came the “cable mat” these have revolutionized the electric radiant heat cables due to the simplicity of the installation.

Electric radiant heat cable mats have taken the hard work out of the install by having the radiant heating cable already pre-spaced on to a nylon mesh and all you have to do is simply start at your thermostat location and roll it out over the floor until it’s all used up. These save time and offer less risk of having hot and cold spots.

About Warmzone
Warmzone provides consumers with energy-efficient, radiant heating solutions for homes and businesses. Based in Salt Lake City, Utah, Warmzone’s electricians and radiant heat experts will help you determine the best radiant heating solution, ranging from electric heated floors to large commercial snow and ice melt projects. Send us a plan or drawings and we’ll be happy to provide you with a FREE estimate and options for your roof heating and ice melting project.

Press Releases

Press Release: Warmzone Hires Jordan Ricks as a Content Manager for Ongoing Information Development

December 10, 2007 Warmzone Editor

December 10, 2007 – Warmzone has hired Jordan Ricks to be the Content Manager and newest addition to the web development team. This is just one of the latest moves by Warmzone to invest in web expertise and technology to improve customers’ online experience and give shoppers better, up-to-date content on radiant heating systems.

“Jordan is an experienced content manger and brings valuable skills to our web team. Our focus is to deliver rich, accurate, and comprehensive product information to our customers. This is a hire that demonstrates our commitment to our online shoppers and to remain as a leader in the radiant heating industry,” said Blair Buxton, CIO of Warmzone.

Ricks has an extensive background that includes over 15 years experience in communications management. Past positions include creative director, SEO specialist, published writer/photographer, and magazine editor. Ricks comes from organizations such as the Gannett Outdoor Group and the School of Visual Arts, NY, NY. His wide array of expertise is within both the technical and creative realms and will be a great addition to Warmzone’s knowledgeable staff.

Warmzone.com has been an authority and important source of information on radiant systems since it was founded, providing customers multiple heating solutions from top manufacturers that deliver only the highest quality products. As the Content Manager, Jordan Ricks will be an integral part of the Warmzone team. His position encompasses the warmzone.com site, and hundreds of other domains under the Warmzone umbrella, as well as producing technical documentation and marketing collateral.

Articles

Which Radiant Floor Heating System is Best for Me

July 6, 2007 Warmzone Editor

If you are looking to warm your floors with a radiant heat system, and have typed “radiant heat system” into a search engine, you might find yourself scratching your head at this point. There are dozens of products available to purchase, and there are even more companies telling you that their product is the best.

So which product is the best? Should you install a hydronic heating system that pumps specially treated hot water through PEX tubing under your floors, an electric cable heating system, or a low-voltage system with flexible polymer heating panels? The answer lies in the type of project you are doing. No single system is ideal for every project, but there is an ideal system for every project.

Hydronic Heating Systems
Hydronic floor heating is the oldest and most popular type of radiant floor heating. These systems are comprised of a boiler or hot water heater, pumps, manifolds, PEX tubing, thermostat, and advanced Rau Panels. Hydronic heating is the most complex of all radiant heat systems. These systems require trained professionals to design and perform the installation. Your best economies of scale are achieved for hydronic systems in large areas or entire homes because of their expensive components and installation costs. However, because hydronic systems can operate on natural gas, oil or propane etc., the operational costs can be a little lower than that of electric floor heating systems.

Hydronic floor heating system featuring RAU Panels

Hydronic systems can be installed under any type of flooring. Most hydronic systems require hot water tubing to be installed in a 2-4 inch bed of light concrete or specially made panels, and are best installed during the initial construction because of its weight load demands and adjustments to floor height. Recent low-mass products have been developed to avoid these challenges by fitting the tubing into pre-cut Rau Panels, making hydronic systems more convenient and possible for most major remodeling projects.

If you want to heat smaller areas like a bathroom or kitchen, a hydronic floor heating system may not be the best value for your project. The complexity and cost of installing the system, along with the long-term maintenance and up-keep required, is not worth the small amount you will save in operational costs. Electric floor heating systems are highly preferred over hydronic systems for small floor heating applications.

Electric Cable Heating
Electric cable heating systems, often called line- or high-voltage systems, are gaining popularity and are ideal for heating smaller areas (10-300 square feet) like bathrooms, kitchens, and sun rooms. These systems are comprised of a thermostat and a heating cable. The most popular heat cable is Warmzone’s ComfortTile cable.

ComfortTile floor heating systems feature heat cable that is available on spools as well as cable that is pre-spaced on a flexible mesh with adhesive backing for easy “roll out” installation. The cable on the spool is oftentimes less expensive, and gives you the ability to space the cable how you want and customize a layout that will heat every square inch of your floor. The cable in mats allows for quick and easy installation.

Every available cable system is equally effective, so when determining which system to purchase, you should look at the warranty of the product, along with the ease of installation. Some cables must be embedded in a separate layer of concrete or mortar, whereas other systems can simply be installed in the thinset. Most cable systems can only be installed under tile. However, on others, if the cable is embedded in mortar or concrete, any flooring can be installed on top of the concrete. When heating smaller areas, it is nearly impossible to beat the simplicity and price of an electric cable heating system.

Low-Voltage Heating Element
Finally, there are low-voltage radiant heat systems. These systems are ideal for mid-size to larger areas (300-3000 square feet) and are comprised of a control box, transformer, heating screen or cable, and thermostat. A unique advantage to a FloorHeat low-voltage system is the extremely low profile of the heating element. FloorHeat STEP is extremely thin and does not buildup floors during the installation. The floor heating system features a 12-inch wide, durable polymer heating element that is also self-regulating.

Illustration of FloorHeat installed under hardwood floor

It can be installed directly under any type of flooring including hardwood, tile, laminates, and carpet. Whereas most cable systems must be installed on top of the concrete board when installing tile, FloorHeat can be installed underneath it. These systems are easy to install and don’t require maintenance like a hydronic system. The self-regulating capability of FloorHeat means that when the ambient temperature rises, the electrical resistance increases and the consumption of electricity decreases. For this reason, the element cannot overheat, and the system is extremely energy efficient.

Radiant heat technology has made significant advances over the years and is an excellent way to supplement your existing heating system or be your sole source of heat. One good way to be assured that you’re being sold the best system for your project is to buy from a company that offers all of the available types of radiant heat.

Warmzone is one company that carries a wide variety of radiant systems and is dedicated to specifying the product that makes the most sense for each individual job. Without a bias towards one system, and unmatched customer services (including installation support and free installation training), Warmzone has become a consumer advocate in the radiant industry that can save you time and money.

Warmzone has already done the research and is committed to working with only the best products on the market. Because Warmzone is a leading nationwide wholesaler, you can receive the best pricing by purchasing direct. Receive a free estimate for your project by submitting a quote request or calling Warmzone at 1-888-488-WARM (9276).

Press Releases

Warmzone Acquires Bryan Morris to Become National Sales Director

February 15, 2007 Warmzone Editor

Warmzone announced today that Bryan Morris has been hired to become the National Sales Director. In his role Mr. Morris will oversee the management of all sales and dealer recruiting.

“It’s a tremendous opportunity to work with a growing organization like Warmzone. The level of expertise and professionalism of its staff and management is extraordinary. I am thrilled with the opportunity to further guide Warmzone’s sales within their existing business channels and exploring new markets.”

Mr. Morris joins Warmzone following positions over the past 20 years with leading companies such as Morgan Stanley Dean Witter, Ikon, Xerox and GM. Morris has established a reputation as a skilled senior manager who focuses on providing quality service for his clients.

“Bryan’s impressive background in sales and management further strengthens our ability to handle large accounts and the growing demand from professional customers including architects and general contractors. He will be a strong leader for our sales and recruiting departments while upholding our commitment to provide unmatched value.” said Brandon Weaver, Co-founder and Vice President for Warmzone.

Press Releases

Warmzone Appoints Blair Buxton as Chief Information Officer and Executive Committee Member

June 6, 2006 Warmzone Editor

Warmzone today announced the appointment of Blair Buxton to the role of Chief Information Officer. As Chief Information Officer, Mr. Buxton will be responsible for the vision, strategy, direction, security, infrastructure and oversight of Warmzone’s technology information initiatives. In this role Mr. Buxton will serve as a member of the Executive Committee.

Blair is a technology industry veteran with over 20 years of experience. Immediately preceding his joining Warmzone, Blair was Chief Technology Officer for EnableUs, a GMAC subsidiary, where he was responsible for global architecture, software development and electronic infrastructure.

“I am extremely pleased to have Blair join Warmzone’s executive leadership team, where we will benefit tremendously from his experience, proven record of success and passion for technology,” said Brandon Weaver, Executive VP of Sales for Warmzone. “This appointment of Blair to the Chief Information Officer position fills an important and strategic leadership role in the company and the industry. Blair’s intimate knowledge of information technologies, strategies and services will help ensure Warmzone’s position as a leader in the radiant heat industry and fully realize the growth opportunities before us.”

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