Tag Archives: Snow melting systems

Warmzone – the Complete Radiant Heat Provider

Find the Ideal Snow Melting, De-icing, or Heating Solution

November is here, and winter will be here before you know it. Winter brings cool evenings filled with family gatherings, parties, and holiday errands. You may be warm and cozy in your home, but snow and ice build up outside your home can create hazards. These hazards can make the season frustrating instead of bright. Preparing your home for winter beforehand is one of the best ways to ensure the holidays at your home are warm, cozy, and worry-free.  

After doing your indoor winter prep tasks, call Warmzone to ensure the outside of your home is ready to go. Warmzone offers snow melting solutions for every area of your home. These systems provide peace of mind by enhancing safety and convenience. Each system eliminates the need for chemical or manual snow removal. Warmzone snow melting systems are automated, using a small activation device to detect moisture and temperature. When weather conditions warrant, the sensor sends a signal to the controller, which then sends power to the heating element. Warmzone systems are also easily customizable. The systems can be tailored to meet your budget needs as well as your specific snow melting demands.

Snow-melting systems can be installed in almost any application or layout. Heating driveways is an ever-popular option, as are large parking and pedestrian areas. If heating an entire area isn’t the right fit, consider these other driveway heating options. One popular option for homeowners is that of installing heated tire tracks. These systems typically include two 24-inch-wide heated tracks. The heated tire tracks require less power to operate, and can also be cheaper to install, making this an ideal option for those with limited power, as well as a tight budget.

Heated driveway and sidewalk
A heated driveway and sidewalk after a large snowstorm.

Another great option is to heat an 8-foot-wide strip in the middle of the driveway. Trusted ClearZone heating cable can also be installed to heat specific problem areas, such as inclines, shaded areas, or parts of the driveway that are susceptible to snow drifts. Warmzone radiant heat systems are versatile, and can be used to hear virtually any outdoor space. Keeping inclines free of snow and ice enhances safety, and homeowners can also install radiant snow melting systems on steps, accessibility ramps, porches, sidewalks, and more.

Heating highly trafficked steps or walkways is especially vital for business owners who must not only keep their stores accessible during business hours, but also provide safe properties to avoid slip-and-fall accidents. Many businesses also heat loading docks and ramps to enhance productivity and protect workers.

Snow melting systems can also be designed for outdoor animals, such as in kennels or dog runs. You can enjoy all of your property year ‘round by installing radiant heat systems in your most popular areas. Steps, outdoor decks, and the pathway to your hot tub can remain clear of snow and ice throughout Mother Nature’s coldest months. Whatever your snow melting needs are, a friendly Warmzone customer service professional can help you with custom design.

Once walkways and driveways are squared away, don’t forget to prepare another vital area of the home. The roof can easily become a problem during the winter without proper maintenance. Inspecting your roof and knowing what shape it’s in can save money, time, and your home from damage. A simple roof inspection each fall starts the cooler months with peace of mind. First, ensure no impediments, such as large branches rest or hang over the roof. Items like branches can break under the weight of heavy snow and damage the roof. Check the condition of your roof shingles. Inspect each shingle carefully and look for worn, missing, or loose shingles. Damaged shingles can allow water into the home. If you see any problems with your shingles check your attic for water damage. While in the attic, be sure it is properly insulated. If the insulation is faulty it can lead to warm air escaping from the attic. This warm air can melt the bottom layer of snow on your roof, causing it to run down the roof before it refreezes at the eaves, creating an ice dam. Ice dams are the number one cause of damage to roofs, and often lead to expensive repairs. Next, take a peek at your gutters and downspouts. Remove any existing leaves, debris, or blockages, and make sure the downspouts drain appropriately.

Heated roof valley and edge
A low-voltage roof de-icing system installed along roof valley and eaves.

Warmzone offers a large selection of roof de-icing systems that can customized to fit the needs and budget of any homeowner. Warmzone’s state-of-the-art self-regulating heat cable is perfect for almost any application. It is affordable and effectively helps to facilitate runoff and prevent ice dams. Its rugged construction allows it to withstand harsh winter conditions. Because it is self-regulating, the heating core increases output when the temperature falls and decreases output when temperature rises. The system can also be activated manually if necessary. Its affordability, flexibility, and efficiency are what make it the choice of customers across the nation. 

Another option is low-voltage RoofHeat STEP. This is one of the most efficient systems available on the market. The heating element features thin, flexible, polymer heating panels that can be installed underneath roof shingles and even metal roofs. The low-voltage polypropylene-fused heating elements also ensure each panel is waterproof and protected from alkaline and salt damage. It is available in 3-, 6-, 9-, or 12-inch wide rolls, making it convenient for installation in a wide variety of unique layouts. Roof de-icing systems can also be combined to create the optimal solution for your home. For instance, a low-voltage system can be installed along the roof eaves while self-regulating heat cable can be used to heat gutters and downspouts. Warmzone de-icing systems can help homeowners ensure that their home is ready for winter’s onslaught.

Warmzone customer service professionals can help you find the perfect solution to meet your needs and budget. Warmzone’s industry-leading customer service is unmatched, and will help to ensure a hassle-free purchase and installation.  Contact Warmzone today at 888-488-9276 to speak with a customer service professional who can help you with winter prep today!

The Versatility of Radiant Heat

Keep Your Favorite Outdoor Spaces and Walkways Clear of Snow During the Winter Months

Radiant heated driveways are becoming commonplace in upscale neighborhoods nowadays. The efficiency and convenience of these automated systems make them attractive options for homeowners. In addition to operating on renewable energy, the systems eliminate the need for salt and harmful snowmelt chemicals. For environmentally conscious consumers, these traits are strong selling points. The features and benefits of these reliable systems ensure that they’re here to stay, but radiant heat is often called upon to do much more than heat driveways. These systems are used for a wide variety of other snow melting applications – as well as roof de-icing and home heating applications.

Given the nature of Warmzone’s versatile ClearZone snow melting system, radiant heat is easily customized to accommodate a range of consumer demands. In addition to heated driveways, some other demands include heated dog runs and kennels, heated outdoor steps, sidewalks, loading docks, and accessibility ramps. The systems are also frequently designed and installed to keep favorite, or heavily trafficked outdoor areas clear of snow as ice, such as pathways to a jacuzzi, or to the garbage cans, etc. The systems can be installed to heat concrete, asphalt, brick and stone pavers, and more. Warmzone snow melting systems have also been installed in a variety of large commercial applications, such as train platforms, bus stops, airport aprons, parking ramps, and more.

Customers are often surprised to learn that radiant heat can be installed to keep outdoor steps free from snow and ice during the winter months. Aside from heating driveways, heating steps is another popular request from home and business owners.

Heated steps being installed.
Radiant snow melting system being installed to heat outdoor steps.

We all know how treacherous steps can be during snowstorms. Some of us (with bruises, scars, or a limp) know better than others. Installing a radiant snow melting system is one sure way to greatly reduce the chances of slip and fall accidents during the winter. Needless to say, the enhanced safety provided by a radiant heat system is a godsend for business owners.

Most Warmzone heated step systems utilize ClearZone heat cable. ClearZone heat cable is a premium heat-resistant cable that is available off the spool or pre-spaced in mats. For heated step installations, cable off the spool is recommended. To prevent snow and ice from forming on outdoor steps, three or four runs of heat cable are installed along each step (depending on the depth of the step), including one run near the bullnose edge of the step. The cable is then run to the next step and laid out in a similar fashion.

Warmzone system designers are also frequently called upon to design systems to keep loading docks and accessibility ramps safe during winter. The heat cable is easily installed in concrete (as well as other mediums), and the system activates only when needed. If a snowstorm hits during the night, you can be assured that the ramp will be clear and safe for pedestrian traffic in the morning.

Heated entryway
A radiant heated accessibility ramp after a snowstorm.

Warmzone snow melting systems consist of the best available components, which include an activation device (snow sensor) and controller. When the sensor detects snow, it sends a signal to the control unit, and power is then sent to the embedded heat cable. The heated surface prevents snow from accumulating during the storm. A safety feature, called the “afterrun” function allows the system to remain on for a short time after the snowstorm. This allows the heated concrete (or other medium) to dry, ensuring that no water is left on the surface, and preventing thin sheets of “invisible” ice from forming. In addition to the automated features of the snow melting systems, Warmzone systems also include a manual override feature, so it can be activated if needed. (Sometimes wind may blow snow onto the driveway, or snow has melted and pooled in the driveway.)

Every radiant heat system is backed by the best customer service in the business. In addition to providing customers with a detailed design/layout of the system, Warmzone also includes free installation training and technical support. To learn more about radiant snow melting systems, or Warmzone’s industry-leading support services, call and talk with a radiant heat expert today, at 888-488-9276.

Dealing with Record Snowfalls

Surviving the Heavy Hand of Winter’s Atmospheric Rivers

Old man winter has awakened with a vengeance this year. The early weeks of the 2022-2023 winter have socked the West with more precipitation than many of the previous winters combined. Of course, we can’t overlook the recent bombardment of snow that Buffalo, New York received as well. Meteorologists attribute the massive volumes of snow and rain in the western U.S. to atmospheric rivers. Essentially, these airborne rivers are flowing columns of condensed water vapor (tropical moisture) that produce high volumes of rain and snow. Needless to say, atmospheric rivers such as those experienced during the early winter of 2022-23 can be a Godsend to drought stricken areas.

For those living in the higher elevations receiving snow, these “rivers” can dump copious amounts of snow. This year, it seems that as soon as the driveway is shoveled from one storm, another delivers a second round of snow, and then a third, and so on. During winters like these, business owners struggle to keep their parking lots clear and storefronts accessible. Instead of relying on employees or hired snow plows to keep the areas clear of snow and ice, many are turning to automated snow melting systems.

Heated concrete driveway for mountain lodge

Warmzone radiant snow melting systems feature the industry’s top components, and are designed by professionals to provide the best results possible. The systems are fully automated, so there is no need to manually activate the system at odd hours of the night.

One of the components of an automated snow melting system is the snow sensor (activation device). The sensor detects temperature and precipitation, and is installed in an area where it is exposed to the elements. When precipitation is detected and the temperature is below the adjustable set point (typically 38 or 39 degrees Fahrenheit, the sensor sends a signal to the controller. The control unit (typically mounted on a wall in the garage) then sends power to the embedded heat cable, warming the area and preventing snow from accumulating. The system also features an “afterrun” function. This allows the system to remain on for a short time after the storm to dry the surface, eliminating the moisture so that thin sheets of ice do not form. After all, walking to and from the car shouldn’t be like skating on banana peels.

Sometimes “convenience” and safety are the most appealing aspects of a business. When the snow is falling and slush is piling, nothing offers a more enticing invitation to customers than a clear parking lot and snow-free walkways. Let’s face it; if Grandma – or anyone else for that matter – doesn’t feel safe about negotiating a snow-packed parking area or icy sidewalk, she’s likely to forego that shopping experience in favor of a more inviting establishment.

Benefits

Automated snow melting systems keep areas clear of snow and ice around the clock. There is no need for any manual snow removal. Radiant snow melting systems are also very versatile, and can be installed to heat ramps, steps, and a variety of custom shaped areas. Its applications are virtually limitless.

Having a radiant snow melting system installed assures business owners that accessibility is assured for customers throughout the height of winter – atmospheric storms and all. There’s no need to worry about employees forgetting to shovel or apply rock salt to the sidewalks, ramps, or stairs. Automated snow melting systems will keep areas clear throughout the day and night.

In addition to being fully automated, electric snow melting systems can also be manually activated. Sometimes the wind may create snowdrifts, or melted snow may drain from nearby inclines and pool in trafficked areas. The system can be manually triggered to clear the snowdrift or dry the runoff.

Grass damaged by snow melting salt
Grass bordering a driveway where salt was used to melt snow and ice during the winter.

Radiant heat systems are very energy efficient and operate only when needed. Nearly 100 percent of the energy used translates directly into the heat that melts the snow. And because the systems eliminate the need for salt or other harsh snow melting chemicals, the surrounding landscape is better off. Runoff containing salt or other snow melting chemicals can kill nearby grass and vegetation. Snow melting systems operating on renewable energy can help to eliminate threats to the surrounding landscape.

Warmzone offers custom snow melting solutions for customers, and unmatched customer support services. In addition to custom designing each system, complete with a detailed layout consisting of the best components available, Warmzone also includes free installation training and support. Installers can receive free installation training online with an instructor who covers every aspect of the installation.

If installers have a question, or encounter an unforeseen issue during the installation, they can call and talk with an installation expert. Our friendly professionals are happy to assist installers in any way they can. For more details about Warmzone’s custom snow melting system options or free training, please give us a call today, at 888-488-9276.

Automated Snow Melting Systems

Snow melting systems are an amenity that can make every winter at your home less stressful. If you’ve been considering a snow-melting system for your home or business, now is the time to make the upgrade. Warmzone’s snow melting systems are proven, state-of-the-art systems that are fully automated and maintenance-free. Snow-melting systems are an excellent investment for any homeowner. Here is some basic info to get you started on the road to a snow and ice-free winter.

Each Warmzone snow melting system is customized to meet the specific layout and budget needs of the homeowner, but each system comes with three main components: the heating element (ClearZone heat cable), a snow sensor activation device, and a control panel. Warmzone’s industry-leading heat cable is available in individual lengths, or pre-spaced in mats that can be easily rolled out for quick installation. ClearZone heat cable can be installed in a variety of mediums, including concrete, asphalt, and under brick or stone pavers. Installation in concrete begins by laying the cable over the area to be heated and securing it to remesh with plastic zip ties. The remesh is typically supported by plastic Mesh-Up supports, which keeps the cable off the ground and ideally positioned a couple of inches below the surface. Concrete is poured directly over the cable.

Heated driveway and sidewalk
A heated driveway and sidewalk.

Warmzone’s asphalt heating cable features cable with an extra durable outer jacket that is rated for a temperature of 464°F (240°C) for up to 10 minutes. The cable is laid out over the prepared bed (or existing asphalt) and secured, and then fresh asphalt is then applied directly over the cable.

Automated snow melting systems are triggered by the snow sensor (activation device). The sensor detects temperature and precipitation. When the temperature is below the adjustable set point (typically 39°F) and precipitation is detected, it signals the control panel. The controller then sends power to the heating cable, efficiently and evenly heating the area to prevent snow and ice build-up. Warmzone snow melting systems feature either an aerial-mount sensor or an in-pavement sensor.

The most common sensor used is the advanced WS-2C aerial-mount activation device. The WS-2C sensor is typically installed above the roofline, or in an area where it is open to the elements so that it can detect the first snowfall. The WS-5C sensor is also mounted aerially, and is designed for systems that require “zoning”. This is when there is limited power, and sections of the system have to heat individually. Both the WS-2C and WS-5C feature universal power supply and sensitivity control. The sensitivity control allows for sensor programming to accommodate specific conditions. The universal power allows the sensor to select the input voltage.

If an aerial sensor isn’t the right choice for your home or business, Warmzone also offers a pavement-mounted sensor. This sensor not only measures pavement temperature but features an advanced mounting system to ensure it aligns with the pavement surface. Warmzone’s pavement-mounted sensor features a durable construction, and is mounted in the surface of the heated driveway. This sensor offered by Warmzone is the most advanced in-ground activation device, and is easily installed to provide efficient, accurate performance each winter.

Snow-melting needs differ for every customer. Warmzone professionals understand that customer needs vary, so each system is custom designed to accommodate the layout and performance needs, as well as the budget of each customer. And every system is designed according to ASHRAE standards, so each customer can be assured that their system is tailored for the weather in their area. While the most popular applications for snow-melting systems are driveways and sidewalks, installation is available in almost any area, including steps, ramps, and more.

Electric radiant snow melting systems are easy to customize, giving residential customers a variety of options to accommodate their budget. Instead of heating entire areas, Warmzone systems can be installed to only heat specific areas of the driveway, such as troublesome areas or inclines. Two 24-inch wide tire tracks can also be installed. This is a popular solution for long driveways or driveways with limited available power.

Heating porches, entryways, steps, or patios are also great options. Keeping walks and parking areas clear and dry is especially vital for businesses. Automated snow-melting systems provide an ideal way to keep visitors safe during the winter months. Snow melting systems have been installed in commercial parking areas, ramps, loading docks, airport aprons, and even runaway truck ramps.

Heated asphalt tire tracks
Heated tire tracks in asphalt.

Warmzone snow-melting systems can be custom designed to suit your needs. With a Warmzone snow-melting system, no winter storm can slow your business or family down. Whatever your needs are, a Warmzone professional will be there to support you throughout the process. From picking products to installing the system, Warmzone stands with you throughout the process. Warmzone’s professional design team will provide the system design and layout, which includes all the technical and electrical information needed for installation.

Warmzone prides itself on its extensive customer service. Along with professional design services, Warmzone includes technical support and free installation training. Installers can take the free course online with their instructor via video conference. The courses typically take less than an hour, but installers can stop and ask questions at any time.

All customers have access to Warmzone radiant heat experts to ask questions or consult with. An online library of product documentation and helpful installation tips and videos are also available at Warmzone.com. Warmzone also maintains a network of experienced installers throughout the country, so we may be able to help you connect with a qualified electrician or installer in your area. Call a Warmzone professional today to learn more about the many options that are available, at 888-488-9276.

Radiant Heat – Efficient, Convenient, and Reliable

Most people agree that technology provides our world with convenience and a host of other benefits. For the most part, it can help to organize and simplify our lives. Granted, there are times when the learning curve can dish out some frustration, or we encounter a few potholes in the technology superhighway, but overall, we love our technology, and it’s here to stay.

One popular technology that has proven itself – and continues to grow in popularity – is that of radiant heating. Radiant heat systems are used to keep driveways, sidewalks, and roofs clear of snow and ice, as well as provide the most energy efficient means for heating homes and businesses.

Heated paver driveway
A radiant snow melting system installed in a paver driveway.

Snow Melting Systems

Maintenance Free and Fully Automated

Radiant driveway heating systems are maintenance free, exceptionally versatile, and also fully automated. The systems utilize a small activation device (snow sensor) that detects temperature and moisture, so when weather conditions warrant, the sensor signals the control panel, and power is then sent to the embedded heating element. The driveway begins warming to prevent snow and ice from building up. After the snowstorm, the system shuts off automatically. However, it remains on for a few minutes after snow has stopped falling to dry the surface to keep thin sheets of dangerous “black ice” from forming. This is another safety feature provided by radiant snow melting systems. Heated driveway systems also feature manual override capability, so if wind blows snow on your driveway you can activate the system to melt the snow drift. 

Easy to Customize

Automated snow melting systems can be installed to heat virtually any type of layout and application, including concrete, pavers, and asphalt. Each heated driveway system is carefully tailored so that it best meets the precise needs of the business or homeowner. In addition to matching each system with the layout and performance needs of the customer, Warmzone systems are also designed to accommodate the customer’s budget. The custom options of radiant heat are virtually limitless.

Asphalt driveway with heated tire tracks
Asphalt driveway with heated tire tracks.

While each snow melting system is unique, some popular general configurations include the following:

Heated tire tracks – Instead of heating the entire driveway surface, many homeowners choose to install two 24-inch wide heated tire tracks. This option not only can result in lower installation costs, but because less area is being heating, the operational costs are also reduced.

Heat an 8-foot wide strip – Some homeowners also choose to only heat an 8-foot wide strip in the middle of the driveway.

Heat specific areas – Some homeowners opt to only heat the problem areas of their driveway. For example, there may be a small section that is mostly shaded, where packed snow and ice may remain for months. Or perhaps the driveway has a section with a steeper incline. Electric radiant heat systems can be easily installed in these specific areas to enhance safety and convenience.

In addition to offering superior systems and components, Warmzone also includes industry-leading customer support and services. Perhaps the service most appreciated by contractors is that of FREE installation training.

Each training course covers the specifics of the installers’ project. The training is typically completed in less than an hour, but attendees can ask questions and proceed at their own pace. This is a valuable service that ultimately saves time in the long run.

Although the training covers all aspects of the installation, sometimes unforeseen problems or questions may arise during the install. That’s why Warmzone’s dedicated support staff is on hand. Our experts are available to field calls from installers and answer any questions they may have.

In addition to the personal training and support services, Warmzone also provides professional system design and layout services. The detailed AutoCAD drawings cover every aspect of the layout and electrical plan, so the installation laborers and electrician have all the information they need at their fingertips.

Radiant Floor Heating Systems

As a leading provider of radiant heat systems, Warmzone offers one of the largest selections of radiant floor heating systems in the business. Instead of offering just one or two floor heating systems, Warmzone carries a wide range of proven solutions for all types of floors. Our large selection assures homeowners that they will be able to find the ideal system for their flooring. Warmzone heated floors are the most trusted systems on the market.

For more information about floor heating systems, or radiant heated driveways or roof de-icing systems, contact a friendly radiant heat expert today. We’ll work closely with you to match you with the system that best meets your radiant heat needs. Call 888.488.9276 today.

Make Life Easier with a Spring Installation

Winter is coming to a close and spring will be here soon. Radiant heat may not be the first thing you think about when it comes to spring, but there is no better time to install a new radiant heat system. Springtime weather is typically more accommodating for installers, and allows you to beat the summer rush. Additionally, you may be able to find better discounts during the early spring.

Don’t wait to start enjoying the many benefits of radiant heat. Install heated floors, heated driveways, a roof de-icing system, or even heated countertops with Warmzone’s state-of-the-art products. Spring installations can be more convenient for home and business owners. Struggling to find a contractor during the construction boom that happens every summer and fall can be hard, and finding one who can work on your schedule can be exasperating. Purchasing your product in spring also means greater availability, so you can rest assured that you will have the heating system for your needs. No matter what project you have, or the product you are looking for, spring is a great time to start.

Floor heating systems are a popular option year-round, providing clean, energy-efficient comfort. The comfort of a heated floor is perfect for coming in after an icy snowstorm, or for that cozy feeling while watching a spring shower. Floor heating is also helpful for those months when pollen and allergens are high. Radiant heat does not circulate dust and allergens like a forced-air system. Instead, heat from the floor rises and silently and efficiently heats the entire area.

Warmzone offers some of the most trusted, advanced systems on the market. Versatile ComfortTile® floor heating cable is available on spools or in mats and installs easily under just about all types of floor surfaces. Another great option is RetroHeat™, which can be installed under existing flooring by simply accessing the floor joists. FilmHeat™ is an almost paper-thin heating element that is an ideal choice for floating floors, and low-voltage FloorHeat STEP® features a self-regulating polymer heating element that is another popular choice for heating hardwood. FilmHeat and FloorHeat STEP require no floor build-up and are easily rolled out over the subfloor during installation. Simply put, Warmzone offers perhaps the largest selection of floor heating systems on the market.

A heated paver driveway.
Paver driveway with radiant snow melting system.

Snow-melting systems are also a great choice for spring installation. Being prepared for winter will provide reassurance and avoid the nuisances that come with the busy summer season, not to mention the rigors of shoveling snow. Snow-melting systems are easy to customize, and can be installed in driveways, walkways, patios, or almost any outdoor space. Snow melting systems are also a prudent choice for business owners. They are great for protecting employees and customers when installed in walkways or areas such as ramps and loading docks. Warmzone’s range of electric snow-melting products includes heating elements that can be installed under concrete, pavers, or even asphalt. ClearZone heating cable and mats lead the industry by providing easy-to-install, energy-efficient heat. Snow melting systems are fully automated and require virtually no maintenance. After a quick installation this spring, you will be enjoying clear, safe sidewalks and driveways every winter.

Roof de-icing is another spring project to prepare for the winter ahead. Snow and ice can build up, freeze, and re-freeze during the winter season. Water freezing and thawing behind ice dams can lead to extensive and expensive roof damage. Warmzone offers several proven roof de-icing products to help keep your roof and home safe from water damage. Self-regulating heat cable can be used on roof gutters, downspouts, edges, or rooftops. Warmzone’s cable is durable and self-regulating. This means when temperature decreases or precipitation increases, the system will automatically activate and clear the roof of ice and snow. The low-voltage RoofHeat STEP de-icing system is another industry-leading self-regulating roof de-icing option. The heating element is a thin polymer that can be installed under shingles and nailed or stapled through during installation. Easy-to-work-with products like RoofHeat STEP and self-regulating heat cable not only can protect your roof from ice dams and snow build-up, but help ensure that your spring project is quick and easy.

Warmzone has each of its industry-leading products available so you can begin your spring project when you are ready. Dedicated customer service specialists can help determine which products are the best fit for your project, and connect you with a local installer if needed. Each system purchased with Warmzone includes a professional system design to assure easy, efficient installation. Warmzone also offers free installation training for installers. Support throughout the installation is another unique benefit available from Warmzone. Whatever questions there are during installation, a Warmzone expert can help you. Moving forward with a radiant heat project this spring can also mean discounts on products that may have less availability during the busy summer months. Reap the benefits of being an early bird and get your radiant heat project started this spring! Call and speak to a Warmzone professional today at 888-488-9276.

Dealing with Snow Removal

The Joy of Winter

Keeping driveways and walks clear of snow and ice during the winter months is never any fun. While homeowners shovel their driveway and walks for convenience and added safety, snow removal is an absolute necessity for business owners. Keeping the premises safe – and inviting – for prospective customers is vital to their businesses.

While some business owners pay a snow removal service or task employees to shovel and salt the walks and parking areas, many are turning to automated snow melting systems. These radiant snow melting systems are maintenance free, and can keep entire areas clear of snow and ice 24/7.

Heated driveway systems are designed to activate as the first snowflake falls. When precipitation is detected and the temperature is below a designated set point (usually 38 or 39 degrees), the sensor signals the snow melting system’s controller, and power is then sent to the embedded heating cable. The heating element quickly warms the driveway (or sidewalk, steps, ramp, etc.) to prevent snow from accumulating.

As an industry-leading provider and designer of radiant snow melting systems, Warmzone utilizes the trusted ClearZone heating cable. The cable can be embedded in concrete, installed under pavers, and even in hot asphalt applications. The cable is available in custom lengths off the spool or pre-spaced in easy-to-install mats. The mats feature cable in 3- and 4- inch spacing (and custom spacing upon request). The ClearZone heating mats can be quickly rolled out and secured over the area to be heated, and then embedded in concrete, asphalt, or pavers. The mats facilitate the installation and ensure proper cable spacing.

Radiant heated driveway installed

Heated Driveway Retrofit
In addition to installing radiant heat in new construction applications, existing driveways can also be retrofitted with radiant heat. For example, in a concrete driveway, saw-cut technology can be used to create channels in the driveway, whereby heat cable is then inserted. An epoxy topcoat is then applied to seal the cable, allowing consumers to enjoy the benefits of a heated driveway at relatively little cost. For added traction and safety, a sand broadcast can be applied to the surface before the epoxy cures if desired.

Asphalt driveways can also be easily retrofitted with radiant heat. ClearZone heat cable is laid out over the existing driveway, and a fresh layer of asphalt is then applied. This is a popular option for homeowners with asphalt driveways.

Each Warmzone driveway heating system is designed according to ASHRAE standards. This ensures that every system is customized specifically to meet the weather conditions and snow melting demands of the customer. Average snowfall and temperatures, and other factors specific to the locale are taken into consideration. For example, a heated driveway in Tehachapi, California will be different from one designed for Juno, Alaska.

Fully Automated and Efficient
Radiant snow melting systems efficiently operate only when needed. However, after the snowstorm, the system is designed to remain on for a short time to dry the surface area so that no black ice develops. This added safety feature is a Godsend to business owners, keeping parking areas, walkways, and entryways free of thin sheets of slick ice.

In addition to eliminating the costs associated with manual snow removal, automated snow melting systems ensure that when business opens in the morning after an unexpected snowstorm, the sidewalks, loading docks, ramps, etc., will be clear. Customers will have a safe, clear entryway to the business.  

Industry Leading Support Services
What sets Warmzone apart from other radiant heat providers is its preeminent customer services. That’s why professional installers continue to work with Warmzone for their radiant heating needs. In addition to receiving free installation training from Warmzone, installers are also assured of receiving installation support if needed during the install. Warmzone has a designated staff of experts who are tasked with assisting installers in the field.

Warmzone also houses a professional radiant heat system design staff. Our experienced designers carefully evaluate each radiant heating system and create a detailed CAD layout of the ideal system. The drawing includes the proper materials and layout of the heating element and components, as well as the proper load calculations, breaker sizes, and number of breakers. This gives the electrician and installers all the information necessary to proceed with a successful installation prior to one foot of heat cable being installed.

Warmzone representatives are also available to answer any questions you may have. If you’re interested in radiant heat, call and speak with a friendly expert today at 888.488.9276.

Warmzone EcoTrace™ Single-feed Contactor Panels

Introducing the Labor-Saving Contactor Panel Hailed by Electricians

Since the company’s inception, Warmzone has remained committed to finding and developing the latest technology for its customers. Warmzone snow melting systems, heated floors, and roof de-icing solutions feature the most advanced – and proven – controls and heating elements in the industry. In keeping with its pledge to offer customers the widest selection of the best products available, Warmzone has recently added the industry’s most advanced contactor panels for snow melting system applications to its product lineup.

Warmzone now offers the EcoTrace 100 and 200-amp single-feed snow melting system contactor panels. Hailed as a breakthrough by electricians and system installers, the single-feed panels offer the potential for significant savings when it comes to the installation of radiant snow melting systems.

The potential cost-saving benefits of the SF100 and SF200 single-feed panels can be realized by the panel’s “single-feed” design, which can dramatically reduce the labor demands during the installation of the snow melting system.

Single-feed contactor panel

The industry’s typical contactor panels usually require the electrician to run several circuits from the home’s breaker box to the snow melting system’s contactor panel. This process can take considerable time and materials, adding to the installation cost. However, with the EcoTrace panels electricians need only to route one circuit from the home’s breaker box.

The EcoTrace SF100 and SF200 single-feed panels are self-contained with contactors, GFEP protection, and in-line fuses. Instead of running multiple circuits to the contactor panel, the electrician can run a single circuit, thereby saving hours (and possibly days in installation labor for larger systems). The single-feed contactors can also eliminate the need for a sub-panel.

The new EcoTrace panels represent a technological breakthrough to electricians by addressing their age old power-feed concern. The SF100 and SF200 offer homeowners greater flexibility by providing a labor-saving option that was previously unavailable.

“The engineering of these advanced panels is state-of-the-art,” stated Jim Sage, an electrical expert and Warmzone’s senior radiant heat system designer. “The SF100 and SF200 panels were designed to save electricians a lot of time, which can translate into a significant cost savings for homeowners. We’re excited to offer them to our customers.”

To learn more about the advanced EcoTrace single-feed panels, contact a Warmzone representative today at 888.488.9276. Radiant heat professionals are available for free consulting and will be happy to discuss your project.

About WARMZONE

As a leading provider of radiant heat solutions, Warmzone offers one of the largest selections of radiant heat products in the industry. Warmzone also includes professional system design and layout, free installation training and installation support.

Warmzone’s mission is to match each customer’s needs with the finest radiant heating systems available. As an intermediary between project requirements and a variety of system choices, Warmzone offers unbiased, individualized solutions that factor the installation, durability, performance and operational investment as the key criteria of their customers. With a staff of some of the most experienced professionals in the industry Warmzone routinely provides premier radiant heat solutions to customers throughout the United States and Canada. Warmzone is a privately owned and operated business headquartered in Salt Lake City Utah. For more information contact Warmzone at 888.488.9276, or visit us online at www.warmzone.com.