You might not want to think about it right now, but soon enough the snow will be falling here in Northeast Ohio. It will be time to dig out the snow shovels and rock salt to keep the driveways and walkways safe and easy to navigate; a back-breaking task many homeowners tend to dread. Shoveling heavy, wet snow can be a difficult chore for even the most physically-fit individual!

It’s for this reason that many homeowners and businesses alike shell out big bucks to a service that will come and plow their driveways after each snowfall. But, what if there was another, maintenance-free option for snow removal?

What is a Snow Melt System?

Using the same concept as radiant floor heating, snow melt systems are designed to keep driveways, walkways and sidewalks clear of snow and ice throughout the winter. Even the heaviest snowstorm is no match for these systems, as they can automatically turn on when they sense precipitation and freezing temperatures.

Using electric resistance heat or heat from a combustion or geothermic source delivered in a fluid, snow melt systems are generally energy-efficient, as they can be set to disable when concrete, asphalt or pavers they are installed beneath reach a sufficient temperature for melting the snow. Plus, they can extend the life of that concrete or asphalt, as no more damaging chemicals, salt or machinery will be needed to eliminate the snow.

Snow melt systems can be used in a variety of different settings. Residential snow melt systems can be installed around the home to prevent snow build-up not only in driveways and sidewalks, but also on outside stairs, around a pool, wheelchair ramps, and more.

Snow melt systems are also useful in commercial and municipal settings. Stores and office buildings can use them to eliminate snow around entrances, walkways and parking lots. Hospitals may find them exceptionally useful around emergency entrances, wheelchair ramps, and ambulance bays. In a municipal setting, snow melt systems are a great solution for public sidewalks and parking lots, airport runways, parking garage entrances and more.

The Benefits of Snow Melt Systems

If you’re wondering if a snow melt system is right for your home or business, consider some of the benefits:

• Ensures a safe, ice-free path for you, your family, your guests or your customers.
• No more back-breaking shoveling or disrupting the neighborhood with a loud snow blower.
• Makes removing snow on those difficult-to-plow areas simple.
• Eliminates costly monthly bills for snow removal companies.
• Chemical-free, so no more heavy bags of salt or chemical ice melt products to damage your driveway and get tracked into your home.
• Increases the life of concrete, asphalt, pavers, etc.
• Safer and more cost effective than plowing.
• Keeps you inside in the warmth during a snowstorm instead of outside shoveling!

If you have any questions about installing snow melt systems for residential, commercial or municipal purposes, contact the professionals at Efficient Heating and Cooling today!  If you’re in the Cleveland area, contact us or give us a call at 216-663-6462.