Snowmelt Systems for Heated Driveways – Snow Removal Solutions for Chicago Homes & Businesses
“I’d rather be shoveling snow!” said no one ever. While a snowblower can make it easier, they are expensive and still require you to actually remove the snow. Wouldn’t it be nice if you never had to clear snow again? One way to make your winter dreams come true is a driveway snow melt system. Imagine how life could be with a heated driveway during the Chicago winters.
While these systems are an investment, many advancements in radiant heating technology have made snow melt systems more effective and economical. Heated driveways may not be in everyone’s budget, but it is easier than ever to have one installed. Whether you own a home, or a business, anyone can benefit from installing a snow melt systems for driveways and pathways.
Your Heated Driveway and Snowmelt System Questions Answered
Wondering what the first step is to getting a heated driveway installed at your Chicago home or business? The first step is to contact a heating and cooling company that has experience in snow melt systems. When considering a system, you will encounter two types. Heated driveway systems are powered by electricity, or water (hydronic). Both technologies have their benefits. Electric systems are more affordable to install, but hydronic systems are more energy efficient. Boiler systems can also provide heating to other areas of your home. Regardless of the system you choose, you will need to remove your current driveway. Hydronic systems are discussed below.
Step 1: Driveway Removal
The original driveway is removed. Depending on the type of driveway you have, the removal process will vary. If you currently have a brick paver driveway you may be able to reuse them if they are in good condition. This will provide a substantial savings. Most hydronic heated driveways use brick pavers. This allows for easy access to the heating system below the surface should a problem arise later on.
Step 2: Installation of Boiler and Piping
The hydronic snow melt system will require the addition of a dedicated boiler unit to run the system. A benefit of this is that other areas can be heated as well as the driveway, including the garage. The flexible (PEX) tubing is laid out and secured in a optimal pattern for best results. The system is tested for operation, leaks, and other considerations.
Step 3: Installation of Driveway
Your new brick paver driveway will be installed over the piping. First, sand is tamped down over the piping. Then the bricks are placed on the paver base.
Step 4: Watch the Snow Melt
After the expense, mess, and time of installing a new heated driveway, it’s time to enjoy it. Modern snow melt systems can activate when snow falls by measuring air moisture, temperature, and other conditions. Optimally, the driveway should already be warming as the first flakes fall. They can also manually be turned on.
At Polar Heating and Air Conditioning we specialize in the installation of hydronic snow melt systems. We work on both residential and commercial projects. If you are interested in a FREE estimate on a heated driveway, sidewalks, or other walkways, contact us today.
