Otis Singleton
Electric snow melt systems are an effective way to keep outdoor surfaces safe and functional during the winter. They are an alternative to traditional snow removal methods and excessive salting, which can have adverse environmental impacts. Electric snow melt systems work by sending an electric current through underground heating cables or panels, which heat the surface from below and melt the snow and ice. These systems can be installed under asphalt, concrete, or sand, and they are especially useful for driveways, walkways, and parking lots to prevent slips, trips, and falls. They can also be used on roofs to prevent ice damming and reduce the risk of water damage and mould growth. Electric snow melt systems offer convenience, safety, and energy efficiency, making them a popular choice for homeowners and businesses alike.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How it works | Electric snow melt systems use electric currents that run through underground heating cables to heat the surface from below and melt the snow. |
| Areas of application | Driveways, walkways, parking lots, roads, loading docks, ramps, roofs, gutters, downspouts, and pipes. |
| Benefits | Safety, convenience, time-saving, energy efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. |
| Comparison with other systems | More sustainable than chemical deicers and salting, but less efficient than hydronic systems. |
| Installation | Heating cables are installed underground, embedded in concrete, asphalt, or sand. |
| Automation | Equipped with sensors and controllers that detect temperature and moisture, activating the system only when needed. |
| Energy efficiency | Electric systems operate at a 1:1 input-to-heating-output ratio, while hydronic systems can be more efficient when paired with a heat pump. |
| Cost | Electric systems have lower installation and operating costs compared to hydronic systems. |
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What You'll Learn
Electric vs. hydronic systems
Electric snow melt systems use electric currents that travel through underground heating cables to heat the surface from below and melt the snow. These systems are more suitable for smaller spaces and are preferred for residential use. They are also more cost-effective upfront, with a smaller initial investment, and are easier to install. Electric systems can be customised to heat the entire driveway or just specific parts. They are also more sustainable than chemical deicers as they do not use harmful chemicals.
Hydronic snow melt systems, on the other hand, use heated water, or a mixture of water and glycol, pumped through tubing to heat the driveway. These systems are generally used for larger-scale applications and are more common in commercial settings. They are more durable, with robust piping materials that can endure extreme temperatures and physical stress. Hydronic systems have higher upfront costs due to the mechanical system required for operation, but they are more efficient to run, especially when paired with a heat pump. They are also compatible with renewable energy sources, which can be used to heat the fluid directly. Additionally, if you already have a hydronic setup for indoor underfloor heating, you can connect your snow-melting system to the existing setup. Hydronic systems can also be used in reverse during the summer to cool down paving materials and prevent cracks and deformities caused by extreme heat.
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Heating cables
Electric snow-melt systems use heating cables or panels to generate heat and melt snow on the surface above. The heating cables are usually embedded in concrete, asphalt, or sand. The cable distributes heat evenly to melt the snow and ice.
Snow-melt cables are available in a wide variety of voltages and lengths. For example, WarmlyYours offers cables in 120, 208, 240, and 277 voltages, with lengths ranging from 43 feet to 377 feet. The cables feature a 6mm twin-conductor heat-resistant cable for energy-efficient operation, generating 12 watts per linear foot.
When installing snow-melt cables, it is important to follow the instructions carefully. The cables should not cross, overlap, or touch each other, as this can cause a circuit failure due to excessive heat buildup. The manufacturer's splice that connects the heating element to the cold lead should be embedded in a non-combustible material, such as asphalt, concrete, or mortar, within the outdoor surface being heated.
Snow-melt cables can be used in various applications, including heated driveways, patios, walkways, stairs, and ramps. They provide a convenient and safe way to remove snow and ice from outdoor surfaces, improving safety and saving time and effort on manual snow removal.
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Sensors and controllers
Sensors are the brains behind the system, detecting when temperatures drop below freezing or when significant snow melting is required. This activates the heating element, which begins the process of melting the snow. The sensors are placed strategically to monitor temperature and moisture levels, either in the air or directly on the surface where snow accumulation occurs. This intelligent feature ensures the system only turns on when needed, maximising energy efficiency.
Controllers are the command centre of the electric snow-melt system, offering users the ability to customise its operation. Depending on the model, controllers can be automatic or manual. Automatic controllers are equipped with digital temperature readouts and sensors, allowing them to activate the heating system based on temperature and moisture levels. This automation ensures the system functions without constant user input, making it incredibly convenient. Manual controllers, on the other hand, often come with a timer, allowing users to set specific activation times.
For added flexibility, some systems offer WiFi control, enabling remote operation. This feature allows users to activate the system on demand, regardless of their physical location. This is particularly useful for those who want to ensure their driveways are clear and safe before they arrive home. WiFi control also allows the system to be energised based on real-time weather events, ensuring it is always one step ahead of winter weather.
When choosing a controller, it's important to consider the specific needs of your project. For larger projects with limited power supply, for example, a touchscreen multi-zone controller might be the best option. Additionally, for those who prioritise sustainability, pairing an electric snow-melt system with renewable energy sources like solar photovoltaic technology is worth considering. However, it's important to note that the energy requirements of electric systems may outweigh the output of renewable sources.
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Installation
Electric snow-melting systems can be installed by contractors, ambitious DIY homeowners, or snow-melting system experts. However, it is important that a certified electrician hooks up the power to the control unit.
The heating element of the system is usually a cable embedded in concrete, asphalt, or sand. The cable evenly distributes heat to melt the snow and ice. The heating cable should never be cut or altered. The cold leads are spliced to the radiant heat cable, which is laid out over the driveway or area to be heated. The cables should never be too close or touch one another to avoid a circuit failure due to excessive heat buildup.
The control box housing is usually mounted onto a wall in the garage. The snow sensor is installed in the surface of the driveway or discreetly at the roof's edge, where it should have 360-degree open access to the elements. The sensor detects when temperatures drop below freezing or a significant snow-melting temperature, activating the heating element.
Some companies offer free design services and installation plans to ensure customers purchase the heating system that best meets their project requirements. They also provide installation training services to achieve the best installation results.
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Safety and convenience
Snow melt systems are a convenient and safe way to keep your outdoor surfaces clear of snow and ice. They are an effective alternative to traditional snow removal methods, such as excessive salting, which can have adverse environmental impacts and be harmful to your health. With a snow melt system, you can set it and forget it, no longer needing to worry about waking up early to shovel your driveway or de-ice your car.
One of the most important benefits of snow melt systems is safety. Slips, trips, and falls on icy surfaces can cause serious injuries, especially for the elderly or those with limited mobility. Snow melt systems help prevent these accidents by keeping driveways, walkways, and parking lots clear of ice and snow. This is especially important for businesses, where icy conditions can lead to liability issues and damage to vehicles and infrastructure.
Snow melt systems also offer convenience and peace of mind. Most systems are automated, turning on when they detect freezing temperatures or precipitation and shutting off automatically when temperatures rise above freezing. This means you don't even need to be at home for it to work, and you can set it up with a timer or remote control to suit your needs. No more back-breaking and time-consuming shovelling!
Electric snow melt systems are also a sustainable option. Unlike chemical de-icers, they don't use harmful chemicals that can contaminate the soil and water. Additionally, electric systems can be paired with renewable energy sources, such as solar photovoltaic technology, to reduce their environmental impact further.
Overall, electric snow melt systems offer a safe, convenient, and environmentally friendly way to keep your outdoor spaces clear and safe during the winter months. With their automated controls, energy efficiency, and ability to prevent slips and falls, they are a worthwhile investment for homeowners and businesses alike.
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Frequently asked questions
Electric snow melt systems use electric currents that run through heating cables or panels embedded in concrete, asphalt, or sand to generate heat and melt snow and ice on the surface above.
Electric snow melt systems consist of two parts: a heating element and a sensor. The sensor detects when temperatures drop below freezing and activates the heating element. The heating cable distributes heat evenly to melt the snow and ice. When temperatures rise above freezing, the system shuts off automatically.
Electric snow melt systems are a convenient, safe, and time-saving way to keep your property free of ice and snow during winter. They can be used on driveways, walkways, and roofs to prevent slips and falls and reduce the risk of water damage and mould growth due to ice dams.
Electric snow melt systems are more sustainable than hydronic systems, which use a boiler and manifold to heat and distribute fluid through underground pipes. Electric systems are also generally more cost-effective and efficient, with a 1:1 input-to-heating output ratio. However, hydronic systems are more durable and can be used in summer to cool down asphalt temperatures, reducing the impact of extreme heat.
