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FAQ - Outdoor Applications: Here are some questions we often hear.


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  • Melt Snow On My Walks and Driveway?

 Electric snow melting is the most cost effective, environmentally friendly method of automatic snow removal. Heatizon snow melting systems can be installed in any sidewalk, driveway or wheelchair ramp. The low installed cost of electric versus hydronic, (hot water/glycol), systems makes this system less expensive to install and operate. The system only operates automatically, ensuring an ice and snow free area that is safe and clean. No more salt, sand, chemicals, snow removal equipment or shovels are required. No back breaking labour, noisy equipment or dirty remnants from salt and sand. No more pollution, salt or removal equipment is required.

  • How much will maintenance cost?

Power Plant Supply Co Heatizon snow melting system is solid state, once installed maintenance is almost nil. Unlike water/glycol systems (hydronic), there are no pumps, solenoid valves, sophisticated controls, tubes, heat exchangers or boilers to monitor. There is nothing to leak out, fill, lubricate, or worry about. No expensive technicians to hire.

  • Do I have to hire professionals to install an automatic snow melting system?

All Power Plant Supply Co Heatizon snow melting systems are easy to install by any handyman. Electrical panel installations should always be performed by a qualified electrician. Full wiring diagrams, installation instructions and warranty information are included with every order, as well as a Canada-wide toll free line and Power Plant Supply Co contacts for technical support and assistance.

  • What is the difference between a boiler system and an electric system?

Boiler systems commonly referred to as hydronic systems use a dedicated boiler to produce hot water that passes through a heat exchanger to heat a glycol mix. (Glycol is similar to the antifreeze in your car).
Glycol is pumped continuously through a series of pipes or tubes under the surface to maintain a temperature high enough to melt snow and ice.

The system runs all winter, even when there is no snow, drifting or freezing rain occurring. It must be kept running to make sure that sub zero glycol does not enter the heat exchanger which will crack with the temperature difference of sub zero glycol and high temperature hot water. The system also includes water valves, air eliminators, return and leaving liquid temperature controls, manifolds, multiple pumps, etc. Glycol should be tested frequently and changed regularly to make sure it is of a good quality so it does not freeze.

The owner will be responsible for making sure the glycol is disposed of in an environmentally safe manner. You will also need to have a service company make sure that the pumps, boiler and other items are in good condition. Confirming there are no leak or waste energy and will be available to when the stoems arrive. Besides wasting energy to keep the outdoor surface warm when it’s not needed, there is also wasted energy from the heat radiating off the boiler and pipes. Most boilers operate at about 85% efficiency and produce NOx, CO² and condensation.

Power Plant Supply Co Heatizon snow melt systems use heating cables; low voltage or line voltage, an automatic snow sensor and a ground sensing thermostat. The cables are laid under the interlock or in the asphalt or concrete surface. The system only operates when the automatic control sensor detects freezing rain or blowing or falling snow. It uses no power when in the automatic wait mode and contains no hazardous pollutants, is 100% efficient, silent and very cost effective.

  • Isn't it dangerous to have an electric snow melt system outdoors?

Power Plant Supply Co Heatizon snow melting systems are CSA approved to be installed in areas such as driveways, walkways, roofs, gutters bathrooms, showers, kitchens and basements. The tuff cable line and ZMesh can even be installed to provide a heated seat in the shower at home.

  • How much does it cost to install this system in my kitchen?

Go back to the submit page and send basic dimensions of your walks and driveways. We will fax or e-mail a quotation by the next working day.

  • My front steps are dangerous in winter. How can I fix them?

Snow melting systems can be installed on top of existing concrete steps. Simply fasten mats on your steps or retro fit our cable system. It may be installed on/under/in many covers like granite, marble, slate or exterior non slip tile. Should there be a problem of water or ice falling on the steps because of snow and ice on the roof, we can also solve that problem with our roof and gutter de-icing system, or mat melt systems, contact us (atlantic@powerplantsupplyco.com ) to discuss a cost effective solution to any problem area.

  • I don't like to waste energy, how do I take steps to make wasted energy less costly?

Power Plant Supply Co Heatizon snow melt systems are sold with an snow sensor to operate your driveways, ramps or walks automatically. The system is designed to only turn on when the predetermined conditions are present. It will not operate above a set temperature, usually 2-3 degrees C. It must sense precipitation as well as cold temperatures to operate. Thus you only actually use the amount of heat required to melt the amount of precipitation that is falling, at the current outside temperature, It truly is an environmentally effective, safe solution to your snow removal needs.

  • I'm not very handy, do you do installations?

Most competent handyman, contractor or renovator can properly and safely install Heatizon products. We include comprehensive instructions and phone support, if needed.  Connections to line voltage panel source must be made by a licensed electrical contractor.

  • Is this system safe?

Power Plant supplied Heatizon snow melt systems are CSA certified. They have passed rigorous tests to ensure they are safe and will perform for years to come. Every Heatizon product is shipped with 100% quality control. A manufacturer’s warranty from Heatizon on the low voltage products is 25 years and 10 years for Line voltage melt systems. Heatizon snow melt systems are used by major builders, industries, engineers, building owners and home owners.

  • How can I be sure I am ordering the right products and quantities for my home or building?

We would be pleased to provide an estimate, in writing, to ensure you have purchased an adequate amount of cable to cover the area(s) you want warmed or heated.

Our comprehensive instructions are easy to follow and personal assistance is available at Power Plant Supply Co.

 We will provide heating systems suited to your requirements. We can even make custom cables to suit any space.

  • What happens if the system fails five-years from now?

Heatizon low voltage heating cables and ZMesh come with a full 25 year manufactures warranty and 10 year manufactures warranty on the line voltage cable system

  • I have a very long driveway at my country home, can you make it safer for me and my wife. ?

For long driveways, with hills and valleys that cause problems in winter, Power Plant Supply Co with  Heatizon snow melt cables can make the driveway safe and easy to navigate in a cost effective manner. A two tire track on part of the Driveway leading to an extended snow melt area at the garage door or parking area may be designed. They will operate automatically to keep your home assessable.

  • Do I need a snow sensor and thermostat?

The system can be operated on a simple on-off switch; however our experience has proven that most people buy a system to have a continually clean safe walkway or driveway. Automatic snow sensing keeps the area clean and dry, the in ground sensor helps to save energy. It’s a proven system that works!

  • I have interlocking stones at my entranceway. Is the heat from the cable strong enough to penetrate the
    stones and keep the snow and ice away?

Cables and layout are sized to suit any snow melt or ice control requirement, whether it is a sidewalk, emergency route, a driveway or wheelchair ramp. It can be installed under interlock pavers, in asphalt, concrete or soil. Automatic ice and snow control systems are available to operate your areas, even when you're not home!

  • Can I use the same system on my roof?

Heatizon manufactures roof and gutter de-icing systems for residences, commercial buildings and institutions. All systems are engineered for maximum safety and energy efficiency.

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