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 quickly begins to warm, preventing the snow from accumulating.

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 types of snow melting 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. This prevents the melted snow from turning into thin, dangerous sheets of "black" ice. This is a valuable safety feature provided by radiant driveway heating systems. Electric heated driveway systems also have no moving parts, making them reliable and maintenance free.

Given their dependable performance and energy-efficient operation, heated driveways and 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 prevent structural damage to driveways, and protect the surrounding environment (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. To learn more about the many custom snow melting options, 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 to activate the system when needed. The systems also feature manual override capability so snowdrifts or ice that may have 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 having to apply 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. The systems can be easily customized to meet each project's unique installation and performance demands. Installing a driveway snow melting system can also 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 can ultimately reduce the chance of litigation that results 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, and heating mats can be used to heat two 24-inch wide tire tracks. The many options give homeowners with varying budgets a wide variety of choices when it comes to installing the ideal snow melting solution.

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 other types of manual and 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 the 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

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 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. The activation device mounts outdoors but you can choose the optional CDP-2 remote panel which allows 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.