Driveway, steps & walkways snowmelting
Created Oct 14 2005 by Moszczynski, Jack
"We also have a long driveway that's on the hill, so before the
next winter - we really need to do it too".
Driveway and walkway snow-melting products are gaining
popularity in the US Northern States. ELEKTRA's system is among the most durable
on the market and can be installed in either new or existing concrete or under
pavers.
Depending on the climate zone, type
of insulation installed underneath (VERY IMPORTANT!) and the thickness of
the pavers or concrete - anywhere from 28Watts to as much as 50Watts /
sq.ft. are needed. All ELEKTRA outdoor systems are 240V only. Fully
automatic temperature & moisture controllers are recommended for efficient
operation.
Installation can be done with either Elektra VCD25 cable or the
ready SnowTech® mat made from the same cable meant to
greatly simplify the installation as the distances are already set. This wire is
quite powerful: 8 Watts per running ft. or 23 Watts per running yard of the
cable. The smallest unit is 100 Watts, good for 7-12 sq. ft. step. The largest
is 3500 Watts, good for 80-110 sq.ft. fragment of driveway or walkway.
Heating wire cannot be cut so it has to be ordered in the size needed.
Not everything needs to be heated though. As little as driveway
tire tracks, steps, narrow winding walkways and other problem areas likely
in need to be shoveled by hand after the snowstorm - are
usually the prime candidates.
Please remember - electricity can be deadly and wiring done
incorrectly can kill and start deadly and destructive fires. If you have
the slightest doubt about your wiring ability, please contact a licensed
electrician and/or repairman.
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