Snow Melt Systems are essentially a radiant floor for outdoors. PEX tubing is imbedded in a controlled pattern, during a concrete pour. A Glycol/Water mixture is heated and pumped thrrough the tubing to bring the surface up to a temperature just above the freezing point. Automatic snow melt controls can be installed to sense a combination of freezing temperature and humidity. Both conditions must be met for the system to start up.

    A common misconception is that you will be heating the surface all winter long. In actuality, the system only operates when it is manually turned on or when moisture and freezing temperature are present. Once the surface is dry or the temperature climbs above freezing, the system will automatically turn off after one hour. It might be below freezing for extended periods with no snow, the system will not start up. The manual override can be used if a large snowfall is predicted but has yet to arrive or blowing snow has drifted onto the surface without hitting the sensor.

    Snow melt is commonly used for driveways, sidewalks, handicap access areas, truck loading bays, exterior ramps, and retail storefronts. Some less common applications might include lake front porches and exterior dining areas, thus providing comfort and extension of the useful season for those areas.

One of the most important issues to address during design of an electric or hydronic Snow Melt Sytem is drainage.  Water generated by the system must be managed. As soon as the melt off comes in contact with an untreated surface, it will refreeze, creating an ice speed bump or other hazzard.