Heated Driveways:
Who, What, Where, When Why and How
The obvious answer is, “a
driveway that is heated,” but what actually heats the driveway? The
best driveway heating systems are radiant heating systems, similar
to indoor floor heating systems. There are both electric and
hydronic radiant heating systems that can be used to heat outdoor
surfaces. Electric systems use an electric cable, and hydronic
systems pump hot water through plastic tubing. The heating elements
are compacted in the surface and use resistant heating to heat the
surrounding surface. Most systems use automatic sensors to turn on
the systems when it begins to snow. Electric systems tend to be more
efficient, require less maintenance, and heat surfaces quicker.
Hydronic systems are usually slightly more expensive to purchase and
install, but the operational are usually lower. However, unless
you’re heating extremely large areas, the advantages of electric
systems tend to out weight those of hydronic systems.
Why install a driveway heating system?
Some of the obvious benefits are of course, not having to shovel
your driveway again, prevention from slipping on icy surfaces, and
no longer getting stuck in your driveway. Some other benefits
include increasing the value of your home, prolonging the life of
your driveway, and not harming the environment with harmful
chemicals.
Where and When can you install a system?
Driveway heating systems can be installed in almost any location, in
almost any medium (including concrete, asphalt, under pavers, etc.),
and at almost anytime of the year (depending on the medium). The
most popular and ideal time to install a system, is during new
construction, and during the summer. However, as long as the
conditions are fair enough to install the driveway, there are no
limitations when installing the system.
How do the systems work?
Snow melting systems are composed of three main items: the heating
element, the controller, and the activation device. The heating
element can be either an electric heating cable, or PEX tubing for
hot water. These heating elements usually be installed in almost any
medium. Installing the system under pavers, and in new concrete
makes for the easiest installation, but asphalt is still an option.
The controller is either a wall-mounted control box for electric
systems, or a boiler for hydronic systems. Hydronic systems also
require other parts like pumps and manifolds for the system to
operate. Both types of systems use manual and automatic activation
devices. Available automatic sensors include aerial mounted and
pavement mounted snow switches. These sensors activate the system
when there is moisture present and the temperature is below
approximately 38 degrees. Most system come equipped with a back-up,
manual 4 hour timer.
If you are interested in more, please
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