Tag Archives: ClearZone snow melting systems

HOTNEWS

Clear the Way with ClearZone Snow Melting Systems

Snow melting systems are popular options for both home and business owners in cold weather climates. Warmzone’s ClearZone snow melting systems are energy efficient, and easy to customize and install in almost any area. Each system has a heating element, a contactor panel, and an activation device. These three components work together when cold weather hits to prevent ice and snow buildup. The activation device senses the ambient temperature and precipitation, and when conditions warrant, it triggers the controller and power is sent to the embedded heating cable, ensuring the heated area is clear 24/7. A ClearZone snow melting system will assure that winter is safe and hassle-free for any home.

ClearZone snow melting systems provide many benefits. Not only will driveways and walkways be clear, but time and money can be saved. There is no longer a need to shovel snow or pay to have snow cleared. ClearZone snow melting systems are also fully automated, so they only operate when necessary, and the system is designed so that operates until the snow is cleared. An “after run” function keeps the system on for a short time after a storm to dry the driveway or walks, and then it will shut down. ClearZone systems also have a rapid response time, so it heats the surface quickly to prevent snow from accumulating on the heated area.

Heated paver driveway

ClearZone systems are extremely versatile and can be installed in almost any application and medium. Whether you are looking to heat concrete, under pavers, or bricks, or even freshly poured asphalt, a ClearZone snow melting system is the best option available on the market. With its industry-leading heating elements (available pre-spaced in mats or individual lengths off the spool), ClearZone systems can be custom designed to fit any area, providing endless custom options that allow each customer’s needs to be met. While the most popular choice is often to heat an entire area, custom installations are just as easy. Whether you want to heat two tire tracks, a strip in the middle of the driveway, a high traffic area, or even a small area such as an outdoor kennel, ClearZone snow melting systems can make it happen. Custom ClearZone systems can be installed in both residential and commercial applications. Here are just a few of the applications where ClearZone snow melting systems have been installed:

  • Driveways
  • Sidewalks
  • Outdoor steps
  • Wheelchair ramps
  • Shopping centers/malls
  • Churches
  • Winter resorts
  • Loading docks and ramps
  • Pedestrian bridges
  • Public transit stations
  • Runaway truck ramps

Warmzone also offers industry-leading customer service that includes professional design services that will ensure the system is designed for your specific snow melting needs and budget. Warmzone’s customer service also includes free installation training and installation tech support to assure that each system installation is straightforward and painless.

ClearZone snowmelt systems also offer safety benefits that can’t be beat, especially for business owners. An investment in a ClearZone system can protect customers from wet feet and slipping on ice, and help to protect business owners from costly litigation that can result from onsite injuries. Snow melting systems can also keep truck ramps, loading docks, and other areas of commercial businesses clear of snow and ice, keeping workers safe and assuring that business can continue operating at optimum levels, even when the weather gets cold. Clear walkways will help to keep your business steady and safe during the harsh winter months.

If cost is a concern, ClearZone’s customization options can also accommodate the budget. A radiant heat expert will ensure that the perfect snow melting system is designed to meet snow melting needs in the most efficient way possible. Customers also wonder about operating costs of a snow melting system, but with an automated system operating only when needed, cost remains relatively low. The operating costs of a ClearZone snow melting system are often less than hiring a snow removal service, and 99 percent of energy used goes towards snow melting, making ClearZone systems extremely energy efficient. On average, an 800-square-foot area may be heated for around $3.55 for each hour of continuous operation. (This may vary depending on local utility rates.) Snow melting systems are also easy to install. ClearZone systems have a single-point connection, allowing for them to be installed quicker and cheaper than other available systems―without sacrificing quality. Electric snow melting systems from Warmzone also avoid costly maintenance, as they have no moving parts, making them reliable and virtually maintenance free.

With all the benefits of a ClearZone snow melting system, it’s easy to see why home and business owners choose Warmzone. The perfect system can be designed to meet your snow melting needs and your budget to make sure your winter is easy and hassle free. Warmzone’s experienced system designers will help you find the best products and layout to accommodate your needs, and provide real-time installation support and training. If you are looking for an electrician for your project, Warmzone also maintains relationships with top rated installers all over the country and may be able to recommend a reputable installer in your area. A snow melting system from Warmzone ensures that an affordable, durable, top-of-the-line, energy efficient system will be installed and operating at peak efficiency in no time at all.

If you have questions about customizing a snow melting system for your home or business, call Warmzone today at 888-488-9276.

HOTNEWS

Custom Snow Melting Options

Snow melting systems are an efficient, reliable, and easy way to keep your home or business safe and snow free in the winter. Warmzone provides top-quality components that provide versatile options for any customer. With Warmzone, industry leading products like ClearZone snow melting systems can be used in almost any home or business application. Systems can be installed under almost any medium , whether it’s concrete, brick pavers, or even hot asphalt with special snow melting cable, making customization even easier.

Warmzone’s fully automated snow melting systems include a heating element, an activation device, and a contactor panel. These systems use the activation device to detect a set temperature or moisture, and then the contactor panel sends a signal to the embedded heat cable, which begins heating the driveway to ensure it remains free of snow and ice. ClearZone electric snowmelt cable is among the best in the industry, and is available on a roll or pre-spaced in mats. ClearZone cable is considered one of the best in the industry not just because of its versatility but its rugged durability, making it a great choice for customized projects.

Heated steps and entryway

One of the first areas people think about when installing a snow melting system is their driveway. There are many options when it comes to heating a driveway. You can heat an entire paved driveway or sidewalk, or have your snow melting system custom designed and tailored to your specifications. Heating an 8 foot strip in the middle of your driveway is an option if you prefer not to heat an entire area, or even have two 24-inch wide tire tracks installed. This is a popular option because of its affordability and low operation costs. Another option for those not wanting to heat an entire area is to simply heat trouble spots. Inclines or shaded areas, or areas where snow drifts tend to form may be ideal for a radiant snow melting system. Heating a high traffic area is also a great option for homes, whether that’s your front sidewalk, your entry stairs, or a specific area of a driveway.

Driveways aren’t the only place that electric snowmelt systems can be installed. Snow melting systems are a great investment for businesses owners. Radiant heat can be installed at outdoor malls to increase safety and keep business steady during cold winter months. Commercial sidewalks as well as entryways are also great places to install snow melting systems to protect customers from wet feet and slipping on ice. Warmzone’s snow melting systems have been installed in large commercial applications for businesses around the country.

Heated driveway with heated tire tracks

The level of customization that Warmzone’s snow melting systems offer makes them great for many other applications. State and federal government agencies trust Warmzone electric snow melt systems to keep their buildings warm and safe. Other agencies, such as metropolitan transit authorities also utilize the benefits of industry leading customization to heat train platforms as well as bus stops, enhancing safety for commuters every winter. Warmzone’s snow melting systems are also a great choice to prevent ice and snow buildup on pedestrian bridges and ramps, and are utilized by departments of transportation in states across the country.

With their versatility, Warmzone’s snow melting systems have also been used in unusual areas such as airports, or to provide safety by eliminating snow and ice on runaway truck ramps. Other unusual applications include industrial facilities or refineries. Whatever application your business has, a Warmzone snow melting system is a great option.

On top of state-of-the-art components and versatility, Warmzone’s snow melting systems also include industry leading customer service to help you design the perfect system for any home or business. An experienced system designer will help you design the perfect layout to accommodate your needs, using the best products, as well as provide real time installation support. Warmzone provides free installation training services as well, which ultimately saves you time and money in the long run. They’ll stand by you during every step of installation. Warmzone also maintains relationships with top rated installers throughout the country, so we may be able to recommend a trusted electrician and installer in your area. Warmzone specialists are happy to help you with any questions, and with industry leading system design services, each radiant heat system can be installed and working at peak efficiency in no time. Warmzone’s ability to customize each system also means that snow melting systems can be configured to meet any budget to ensure you receive exactly what you need at a price that you can afford.

If you still have questions about the many radiant heat options available at Warmzone, call us today at 888.488.9276.

HOTNEWS

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

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

Winter in Philadelphia

Given Philadelphia’s typical winter weather, the city boasts an “army” of snow removal personnel and equipment. Commuters depend on this army to keep roads clear so they can travel to and from work, but homeowners also have the responsibility to do their share of snow removal.

The City Ordinances regarding snow removal in Philadelphia read:
(1) The owner, agent and tenants of any building or premises shall clear a path of not less than 36 inches in width on all sidewalks abutting the building or premises within 6 hours after the snow has ceased to fall. The path shall be thoroughly cleared of snow and ice. Where the width of any pavement measured from the property line to the curb is less than 3 feet, the path cleared may be only 12-inches in width. When the building in question is a multifamily dwelling the owner or his agent shall be responsible for compliance with the requirements of this Section. 160 Amended, Bill No. 100752 (approved January 5, 2011).

(2) Snow or ice removed from sidewalks, driveways, or other areas shall not be placed or piled in the street.

(3) Any person who violates this Section shall be subject to the provisions and penalties set forth in § 10-718 and § 10-719.

Given the property owners’ responsibility for keeping sidewalks clear of snow and ice, Philadelphia residents have been busy these past few winters. The recent record-setting winters have made it difficult for city snow plow drivers as well as homeowners to keep up with the demands of snow removal.

Snowstorm in downtown Philadelphia
A snowstorm descends on downtown Philadelphia.

During the blizzard of 2016, Philadelphia residents experienced the fourth largest snowstorm in the city’s history, receiving 22.4 inches of snow during a massive two-and-a-half-day storm. In fact, several parts of the country experienced record setting storms and snowfall for the winter of 2015-2016. And weather experts expect more of the same for the next several upcoming winters.

But Philadelphia residents have options when it comes to preparing for the next snow season. In addition to having some extra supplies and keeping the cupboards and refrigerator well stocked, some Pennsylvania residents are dumping the snow blower and shovels in favor of radiant heat.

Fully Automated Snow Melting Systems
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. Providing a safe environment not only enhances business, but reduces the chances of costly litigation as a result of personal injury.

In addition to the silent, maintenance-free operation of radiant heat, electric snow melting systems are fully automated, so they operate only when needed. The system includes an advanced snow sensor that detects temperature and precipitation. When the temperature is 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 ClearZone 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 snow melting systems include the heating cable, an activation device (snow sensor), contactor panel, and marker plate (as required by the NEC). These fully automated systems require no maintenance, and are relatively easy to install. In fact, much of the installation can be done by any ambitious homeowner, but wiring the system must be completed by a licensed electrician in order to keep the warranty valid.

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 proper materials, 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. A dedicated staff of experts is on hand during your installation if you need. Should your installer have any questions while installing the system, 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.

Testimonials

We had a Blizzard and the System Worked Great!

Solution:  ClearZone Heated Driveway

I just wanted to send a note to tell you thank you so much for your help last Monday evening. We had a blizzard Christmas day and the Warmzone system worked great! I have one blanket that is not working and will have the electrician check it out as it is probably where he joined them together in the junction box outside. Thanks again for your help after hours.

Dave S.

HOTNEWS

Home Improvements for Your Feet and Your Pocket

A Smart Choice for Increasing Your Home’s Value

As the housing market crash continues, it seems that even the falling prices, incentives and rebates still aren’t enough to entice new buyers. A year ago a finished home would sell in 4.3 months, it now takes an average of 6.3 months. If you are already a home owner, switching your home from fossil fuel heating to electric radiant heat will not only help protect your investment, but provide an earth friendly efficient alternative that will make your home more attractive to potential buyers.

The best choice for radiant heating is the ComfortTile cable and mats. The CT systems continue to be Warmzone’s best selling electric heat product, and it’s no wonder considering Warmzone attaches a 10-year warranty to every system sold.

This system is the most robust radiant heating product on the market and is manufactured by an industry leader that has been providing quality products for decades.

ComfortTile floor heating mat
ComfortTile radiant floor heating cable pre-spaced in mat.

The most popular spaces for radiant heat in the home are the kitchen and bathroom areas. These areas tend to be the largest area of tile in the home, which also makes it the most difficult to heat. Forced air heating systems only warm the air, which leaves the floors cold and drafty during cold weather months. Radiant heat provides a uniform temperature from ceiling to the floor and warms all the objects and furniture it contacts.

The ComfortTile radiant heating mats are the easiest systems to install. They arrive with the ComfortTile cable already affixed to the flexible mesh, which has a convenient, easy-to-use adhesive backing.

Warmzone’s website is filled with information about how to best install the product beneath tile, stone, and concrete applications. We also have a full staff of professionals available to help you through every step if you choose to install the system yourself. If installing it yourself isn’t your thing, Warmzone has a network of installation professionals in your area that are experienced installers of our systems.

Warmzone has now made the ComfortTile mats more affordable than ever, making it easier for everyone to enjoy the warmth of radiant heating in their homes. Now is the best time to start remodel projects and ready your home for the upcoming winter months, especially if you are pouring new concrete.

Project Highlight – University of Minnesota

Warmzone was recently approached by the Forestry Resources Department of the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, with a horticulture study that needed Warmzone’s help. The solution: ClearZone radiant heating cables.

The University purchased 46 reels of ClearZone heat cable to measure growth variations in different temperature plots. University officials chose the ClearZone system because of the easy-to-program thermostat, versatility and high durability in outdoor conditions.

The radiant heat system enabled Forestry Department students and faculty to create controlled environments in which to conduct accurate growth rate studies.

Warmzone radiant heat used for university horticulture study

The predominant outdoor use for the ClearZone system is to heat driveways, parking lots, sidewalks and bridges. It is especially useful on disability ramps, where safety and ease of use is most important.

In the past, radiant heat systems have been viewed as a luxury that only a few could obtain. But that’s changing. More and more consumers living in cold regions are discovering that the benefits of radiant heating far outweigh the initial cost.

The study by the University has opened up new avenues for radiant heating that have never been used before. Although still a new concept, the study proves that radiant heat has the potential to be used by home and garden enthusiasts to create a tropical oasis in just about any location to maintain ideal growing conditions.