Driveway Heating and Radiant Snow Melting Systems

Heated driveways, much like radiant floor heating systems, utilize a network of heating cable that is embedded under the surface to heat the driveway and keep it clear of snow and ice. The automated driveway heating systems rely on an advanced activation device (snow sensor) that detects precipitation and temperature. When snow first begins to fall, the sensor triggers the controller. Power is then sent to the electric heating cable and the driveway is warmed to prevent the snow from accumulating.

A heated driveway and walks.

Both electric and hydronic driveway heating systems utilize a snow sensor to trigger the system. With hydronic heated driveways, specially treated water is heated in a boiler which is then pumped through the closed loop of PEX tubing. Both systems feature an “afterrun” function, whereby the system continues to operate for a short time after the storm to dry the surface of the driveway so that thin, dangerous sheets of "black" ice do not form. This is a valuable safety feature provided by radiant driveway heating systems. Electric heated driveway systems also have no moving parts, making them maintenance free.

Given their reliable performance and energy efficient operation, heated driveway snow melting systems are very popular with home and business owners alike. Electric driveway heating systems provide unparalleled performance and convenience through fully automated, maintenance-free operation. The radiant heating systems operate only when needed, enhancing safety ‘round the clock, and eliminating the need for costly, time consuming manual snow removal. In addition to increasing the value of your property, driveway heating systems can also help to protect driveways from structural damage and surrounding landscapes (and pets) from the harmful effects of salt and snowmelt chemicals.

Automated heated driveway systems can be installed in small custom snow melting applications as well as large commercial projects such as outdoor parking structures, walkways, loading docks, runaway truck ramps and more. Contact a radiant heat professional today at 888.488.9276.

Heated Driveways - Features and Benefits

FEATURES

BENEFITS

FULLY AUTOMATED

Electric and hydronic heated driveway systems utilize an advanced WS-2C aerial-mount or in-ground activation device (snow sensor) that senses weather conditions and activates the system when needed. The systems also feature manual override capability so snowdrifts or ice that formed in shadowed areas can be melted. The systems operate when needed and shutoff afterwards, making them reliable and energy efficient.

ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY

Electric driveway heating systems utilize renewable energy. Radiant snow melting systems offer a clean way to keep driveways clear of snow and ice. The systems eliminate the need for shovels and snow plows as well as the need for salt and harsh snowmelt chemicals that harm the nearby grass and vegetation (and eliminate the harmful runoff from these chemicals.

CONVENIENT & ECONOMICAL

Driveway snow melting systems are not difficult to install and can be easily customized to meet each project's unique installation and performance demands. Installing a driveway snow melting system can increase the value of your property.

ENHANCED SAFETY

Radiant snow melting and de-icing systems can dramatically enhance safety for pedestrians. Keeping sidewalks and driveways free of dangerous ice and snow enhances safety, which also reduces the chances of litigation resulting from personal injuries on your property.

DURABLE, RUGGED DESIGN

Snow melting systems are designed to provide reliable snow removal specific to typical winters in each installation's location. The industry leading radiant heat cable used for heated driveways features a 10-year manufacturer warranty.

VERSATILE

Electric heated driveways are easy to customize and suitable for installation in virtually all types of common surfaces, including: concrete, under pavers (tile, brick, etc.) and even hot asphalt applications.

HIGHLY CUSTOMIZABLE

Radiant snowmelt systems can be easily customized to accommodate uniquely shaped residential driveways and walkways in addition to commercial parking lots, loading platforms, bridges, etc. The heat cable is easily installed to heat steps and narrow walkways as well as two 24-inch wide tire tracks.


The WS-2C snow sensor activation device provides reliable snow detection and control for commercial and residential driveway heating and snow melting applications. The unit detects both precipitation and ambient temperature. When weather conditions warrant, the sensor triggers the snow melting system’s contactor panel or controller, which then sends power to the heating element to warm the surface. The WS-2C is a low cost, easy-to-install, energy-saving alternative to thermostats, manual switches, or timer controls. To learn more about the advanced activation devices that are available, call and speak with a radiant heat expert, at 888.488.9276.

The versatile unit mounts outdoors, but you can choose the optional CDP-2 remote panel for indoor override. The sensor must be mounted in an area where its sensor has 360-degree access to the weather. When precipitation is detected, and temperature is below the adjustable set point, the snow melting system will be activated.

Snow Sensor Features

  • Reliable Rain and Snow Detection
  • Full 30A @ 277 VAC Control
  • Universal 100-277 VAC 50/60 Hz Operation
  • Easy Installation; No Strapping Required
  • Full Access to Electronics
  • Multiple Functions, Easy to use
  • Adjustable Temperature Trigger Point
  • Adjustable Delay Off Cycle with 30-90 Min or 2-6 Hour Ranges
  • Adjustable Precipitation Sensitivity
  • Power/Activation LED Indicator
  • Replaceable Precipitation Sensor
  • Selectable Low Temperature Cutoff With Unique "Recover" Mode
  • Smart "Manual On" Operates for One Delay Off Cycle
  • Robust Unit at a Low Price
  • System Components - Snow Sensor

    A snow sensor for an automated snow melting system.

    The WS-2C snow sensor activation device provides reliable snow detection and control for commercial and residential driveway heating and snow melting applications. The advanced snow sensor provides fully automated performance of your heated driveway snow melting system.

    The compact unit detects both precipitation and ambient temperature. When weather conditions warrant, the sensor triggers the snow melting system’s contactor panel or controller, when then sends power to the heating element to warm the surface. The WS-2C is a low cost, easy-to-install, energy-saving alternative to thermostats, manual switches, or timer controls. The versatile unit mounts outdoors but you can choose the optional CDP-2 remote panel for indoor override. A variety of other advanced aerial-mount and pavement-mount sensors are available for driveway heating systems, as well as roof de-icing applications.

    For more information about interior or exterior radiant heat solutions, call a radiant heat expert at 888.488.9276.