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Best Heated Driveway
Thanks to heated driveways scraping and ploughing is a thing of the past even for those who live in areas where they experience moderate snow. Your life is truly made simple with this thing.
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Value
The budget is first on our list because this heating system is not cheap! And anything that will cost you your savings should be worth the investment.
This system is considered to be a necessity, so we have to really set a budget to get it done or installed in our homes. The amount will depend on the type of heating system you will choose. At this point, we have not even taken into account the cost to operate it and maintain it. Money here is really a big issue.
If do your own research, you will find out that there are two types of heating system; an electric coil heater and the Hydronic heater. They are both installed under your driveway but using different sources to generate heat that melts the snow on the pavement. This process means you have to destroy your driveway if you already have one and get this system embedded on the pavement before putting your driveway back. Of course, the work is not as complicated if you still don’t have a paved driveway, that way the work is consolidated. Otherwise, it’s a lot of hard work! And the complications don’t end there; once installed, it’s connected to a control system to make it work and that needs a power supply, so another cost on your pocket.
Recently, they have developed a cheaper and more convenient way to melt snow. An alternative is now available; these are the snow-melting mats. You can easily lay it over your driveway to clear your path and it too does the job of melting ice from your driveway just as well as a heating system. However, even though, this method is cheaper it still costs a good sum of money.
Even with this option, a lot of people though are still opting to get the whole work done. Of course, we know that any of these products have their advantages and ultimately it is up to the buyer to choose what he thinks is best for him.
Just a piece of advice though, if you want the whole system installed in your driveway; be it the electric or Hydronic heating system, consult with a professional and contract them to do the job for you. This way you are sure that all that money will not go to waste and you will reap all its benefits for year and years to come. You have to remember that the cost of repair is just as expensive and time-consuming. It can also be very inconvenient if the problems occur during critical times such as a heavy snowfall.
Weather Resistance
Know your geography! Not all places in the United States or other parts of the world get the same amount of snow in winter and not everyone needs a heating system in their driveway in the winter time.
We need to know what type of heating system will work for different people. We took this criterion into consideration because we want to know our audience. People who never experience snow or those who only have very light snowfall won’t even think about buying this or have it installed in their driveway.
They would even think, scraping and ploughing off snow in their driveway is fun and is a good form of exercise! But there are those who live in places where snow can be harsh and they don’t just get snow, they get lots of snow and the term “lake effect snow” is something they dread; just the sound of it being uttered is enough to make them cringe.
In order to give you the best recommendations, we have to know if the items we chose will be useful and effective for you. You may have the budget but having the wrong information on which product is most suitable for your area can cost you a lot more money than you would normally have to spend. People who live in places with steep driveways will definitely benefit from these products because we are not just trying to get rid of snow here or clear your driveway without lifting a finger; we are also concerned of the safety. A slippery driveway is very hazardous and can cause accidents.
Another point to consider when you are weighing the options of putting a heating system is where you want to actually put or install the heating system. With this in mind you can decide whether you want the whole driveway cleared of snow, or just the tire path or just a clear walkway for the safety of your family. And this consideration will also help you decide how big the work will entail or in any case how long the mat should be.
Materials
Materials make all the difference when it comes to a heated driveway.
So we had to look carefully and closely into the details that go with each product. As we mentioned there are two types of driveway heating system, electric and the Hydronic. Both have its pros and cons and we would like to share them with you.
Pros of Electric system
Because it is powered by electricity is heats up the pavement quickly.
It can be automated so it automatically turns on when snow falls and turns off when the driveway is cleared.
It is more economical because it only uses power when the snow starts to fall.
You don’t have to worry about arriving home with a driveway full of snow because it is automated.
Cons of Electric system
Due to its system of installation, the coils are exposed to the elements presenting more risk to damage and repair.
Installation is costly because you have to embed it underneath, meaning you have to destroy the driveway all together and then put it back again.
Pros of Hydronic system
It uses hot water to effectively melt the ice from your driveway.
Cons of Hydronic system
The energy cost is higher because you have to keep it on in order to effectively melt the ice.
And there are innovations that are worthy of our attention; the heated driveway mats or snow-melting mats! These are cheaper and easy to install because you just lay the mat over your driveway, where the tire track won’t pass and it will clear the path for you. It can melt about 5cm of snow. What’s more, you can conveniently use only when necessary, so it’s more economical. What’s so great about this innovation is that it does the job for a lesser price and if you know how to care for it, it can last you a long time! These mats are not disposable, mind you! These are made of top of line materials so they are strong and dependable. Although it is designed for entry-ways and walkways, these mats are sturdy enough for vehicles to pass through. So for many people, this is a better alternative.
We didn’t just take into consideration the pros and cons, we also scrutinized the integral parts of the unit or the system. We checked the materials used for each product, to make sure that it functions accordingly. The design that will assure us that it’s safe to use and will not cause any harm and damage to us and our property was also carefully considered. Once again, installation of a heated driveway if you are seriously thinking about it is a complicated task. Consult with a professional and have it done by them. Initially, it will be costly; yes, but it will all be worth the investment if you have it done by professionals. Cutting back on expenses by doing it yourself will be more costly in the end. This heating system is quite complicated and you might end up doing more damage.
Product Purity
We’ve been mentioning again and again about the budget and how it is our utmost concern. However, it is closely connected to the product's quality.
We give value and importance on your investment as well and in making sure that you are getting your money’s worth we have to look into the warranty for each product. These items are operational and as time passes you will likely encounter some problems or issues. It is important that you know where to go to or call in order to get answers. Some products offer the same warranty but other brands offer extra service for after purchase concerns.
It is important to know where your nearest service center is or who to call in case you run into some problems. Especially if you are buying online, you need to make sure that you know where you can get the nearest help should you need any. There might be times when you would need someone to physically check the installed system, and your area or location can be a hindrance. So prior to buying you must not forget to look into these details.
Brand
High-quality brands are standing behind their product. They are offering a good warranty that will convince you that their product is worth the money.
Warranty is often overlooked and is not taken into consideration. The only time you remember to check is when something is wrong with what you purchased. Be wise enough to look into these details because you could end up spending your money on something that will just give you more headaches. This is also one of the reasons why you need a professional to install your system because they too will offer a form of warranty for the installation. Apart from the savings, you could get out of the purchase; you can also get a warranty from the installation. Any problem you might have in the future will also be taken care of by the installer and this will save you so much trouble.
Best Heated Driveways
1. Rhs Snow Melting Mat
This is non-slip so it’s safe to use not to mention very cost effective. It also has a very nice design that will blend in with any driveway. With this, you no longer have to worry about the time and effort in shovelling and ploughing snow all winter all.
Read moreFeatures
This can melt up to 2 inches of fresh snow per hour making it safe for you and your family to walk on pavements and driveways during the winter months. Accidents due to slipping have been known to cause big problems and have been accounted for thousands of deaths. This non-slip mat Is the perfect solution without having to demolish your driveways. These mats are also eco-friendly and with an only 320 watts using 120 volts of electricity, it completely melts the snow.
Accessories
This mat comes with a male lead of about 5 inches that you can connect to a plug. No need to buy an extra plug.
Size
Its product dimension is 60 inches x 24 inches x 0.1 inches and weighs about 10 pounds. You can conveniently store it by rolling it up and stowing it in your garage.
Power Source
This runs on 120 volts drawing 320 watts to melt 2 inches of snow per hour. And it’s very economical because you can choose to turn on only as needed.
Speed
As soon as it is turned on and as simultaneously as the snow starts to fall, it can melt up to 2 inches of snow per hour. Is the snow has settled, it may take longer.
Materials
It is made of non-slip rubber materials with traction for safety purposes with a sandpaper-like design.
Brand
This mat is made by Radiant Heat Sales, Inc.
2. WarmlyYours Cable
This snow-melting heater is a flexible option for people who don’t have to damage their existing decorative garden and pavement as well as driveways. It is also perfect for walkways and patios that are uniquely curved or shaped.
Read moreFeatures
It has a 240 VAC twin conductor heating cable that can melt snow even in winding pathways and stairs. You can easily install it underneath pavers of mortar, concrete or asphalt. You can also choose to have it control options installed thereby allowing you to choose the weather to detect a change in temperature or presence of moisture on the pavement. You can also set a timer so that it will only turn on when the snow starts to fall; otherwise, it is turned off.
Accessories
These cables include 20 foot or 6 meters of 14 AWG cold lead designed to adapt to the installation needs. It is CSA certified for outdoor use and designed for hassle-free installation. It also comes with a 10-year warranty which includes parts of labor. They also offer a 24/7 lifetime installation and technical support that you can call anytime. They even have free installation plans that you can avail.
Size
The product dimension is 5,136 inches x 0.2 inches x 0.2 inches or 428 feet; weighing only 21.2 pounds.
Power Source
Each cable has a 1.4-inch twin-conductor heat resistant cable and generates 12 watts per linear foot. This cable runs on 240 volts.
Speed
It can generate heat of 12 watts up to 50 watts of heat per square foot.
Materials
This is made of CSA certified snow melting cables for outdoor use.
Brand
This cable is made by Warmly Yours Radiant Heating.
3. Heatrak Mat
This heated walkway mat is for residential use only. What’s nice about it though is that you can use it independently or interconnect it with other heated mats to cover more area.
Read moreFeatures
It is made of customized thermoplastic material. This enables the matt to effectively melt snow of up to 2 inches per hour. This mat is so efficient and durable that you can actually leave it outside for the whole winter season without worrying about its wear and tear. They offer a 2-year limited warranty on purchase.
Accessories
This comes with a built-in water-tight connector cable so you can connect it to other mats. You have to buy a separate power unit to make this mat work because it does not go with the mat.
Size
This mat has a dimension of 20 inches by 60 inches by 0.5 inches and weighs 11.4 pounds.
Power Source
You need a 120-volt power unit that you have to purchase separately in order to run this mat. You have to manually turn it on from the outside or opt to have automatic control panels installed for an extra cost.
Speed
To know more about the speed of melting, you can contact the product support. However, once you turn it on it should start melting the ice and clear your driveway.
Materials
It is made of thermoplastic material that is durable and safe. It is also waterproof with watertight connecting cables so it’s safe to leave the mats all winter long.
Brand
This snow-melting mat is made by HeatTrak.
4. Powerblanket
This mat is from a well-known total temperature solutions company. The mats are very sturdy and made of durable materials so you can leave it outside all winter long.
Read moreFeatures
These mats are designed for residential, industrial or commercial use. You can now rest your worries of accidents due to slips. They are also made of waterproof and water-tight plugs so you can leave it outside even on the harshest weather. They are also designed to be conveniently connected to other mats in case one is not enough. It has a 1-year warranty for repairs and damages.
Accessories
This mat includes a standard 120-volt GFCI power cord.
Size
The mat is 1 foot wide and 10 feet long per mat.
Power Source
It runs on 120 volts
Speed
It can melt up to 2 inches of snow per hour.
Materials
This mat is made of industrial grade anti-slip rubber and water resistant connecting cables.
Brand
This mat is made by Powerblanket.
5. Summerstep WM36x60C
This is environmentally safe is easy to plug into a 120 volts power source. It can be custom-made for any location. This mat effectively clears snow off your path for a safer and worry-free winter season.
Read moreFeatures
This has anti-slip and is very effective in melting snow in every walkway and pathway. It has a rugged anti-slip rubber design that is industrial grade.
Accessories
This comes with a standard 120-volt GFCI power cord.
Size
It has a product dimension of 3ft x 10 ft. and weighs 66 pounds.
Power Source
This makes use of a 1000watt 8.3 Amps and 120 volts.
Speed
It has the capacity to melt up to 2 inches of snow per hour once it is turned on.
Materials
It made of rugged anti-slip rubber for safety and durability.
Brand
This is made by Powerblanket.
6. CMI Pex Manifold
This hydronic heating system is made of premium stainless steel materials to fight against corrosion and makes it durable so it will last you for a long time.
Read moreFeatures
It has a central location control with flow meters that makes it easy to monitor water flow through its manifold branch. It comes with 1-inch NPT shut-off ball valves to monitor incoming and outgoing water supply. It has balancing valves to balance the heating system as well as regulate the water flow.
Accessories
This heating system comes with 1 manifold balance section body with flow meters; 1 manifold isolation section body valves; 2 mounting brackets; 2 manifold isolation ball valve with 1 NPT Pipe connection; 2 stem thermometer on each Manifold isolation ball valve; 2 manifold end caps and 1/2 inch compression connectors.
Size
It has a product dimension of 12 inches x 4 inches x 14 inches and weighs 8 pounds.
Power Source
It generates power through gas boilers.
Speed
This can melt snow in moderate speed once you turn it on.
Materials
It is made of premium grade stainless steel for durability.
Brand
It is made by CMI
7. Mophorn PEX Manifold
This is made from stainless steel with 1/2 inch connectors. This is made compatible with any PEX tubing.
Read moreFeatures
This heating system includes body flow meters that have adjustable flow rates. It is pressure tested and pre-assembled for easy use. This is very easy to use. You can just mount it and connect to valves and PEX tubes.
Size
Its product dimension is 23 x 15.5 x 2.5 inches and weighs 16 pounds.
Power Source
This is powered by gas boilers.
Speed
The speed of melting will depend on the thickness and amount of snow.
Materials
This is made of high-grade stainless steel materials.
Brand
It is made by Mophorn.
8. Suntouch Promelst
This is a relatively new product on Amazon but it has amazing features and it can prevent slippery walkways and driveways by effectively melting the snow away.
Read moreFeatures
It is made of oxygen-free copper heating to ensure flexibility and durability. It can be installed underneath any surface such as brick, stones, concrete or even asphalt. It is corrosion resistant so it will definitely last you a very long time.
Accessories
This matting includes 12 inch-wide, by 28-inch long ProMelt.
Size
It covers an area of 56 square feet.
Power Source
It runs on 240 volts.
Speed
The speed of melting will depend on the thickness of snow. To know more you can contact their support.
Materials
It is made from of job site-tough high-performance polyurethane jacket for anti-corrosion. It has oxygen-free copper heating wires and high-temperature thermoplastic insulation.
Brand
It is made by SunTouch.
9. Snow Melting Mat
This is another product by WarmlyYours that provides a 100 sq. ft. coverage. It is corrosion resistant with twin conductor heating elements that effectively melts snow on your walkways and driveways.
Read moreFeatures
It is designed to be conveniently embedded on any pavement using only 6.25 Amps from 140 volts of power. You can choose to have it automated for your convenience. You can expect a clear driveway anytime it snows because once automated it turns on when snow or moisture is detected and turns off when there is no need.
Accessories
It comes with a 20 foot or 14 AWG cold lead.
Power Source
It is available in 220 and 140 volts.
Speed
Once turned on it can easily melt snow as soon as it lands.
Materials
This is made of durable materials that can withstand harsh weather with corrosion resistant technology.
Brand
It is made by WarmlyYours
10. Vivo 2 Loop Pex
This is a 3 loop manifold. It is made of stainless steel materials for durability and to keep corrosion at bay. It comes with heavy duty mounting brackets for easy installation.
Read moreFeatures
It a complete stainless steel manifold that is ready to connect with PEX tubings. It has 3 PEX outlets and 3 installed flow meters or indicators. It has isolation ball valves to monitor supply and returns temperatures. It has flow valves that show the heat being distributed into the system.
Accessories
It comes with 20 1/2 inch PEX manifold adapters and 2 heavy-duty mounting brackets for easy installation.
Size
It has a dimension of 19.9 inches by 15.4 inches by 5.4 inches.
Power Source
To know more about the power source, it is best to contact customer support.
Speed
This can melt snow in a fast manner.
Materials
It is made of high-grade stainless steel materials.
Brand
It is made by VIVO.