Snow Melting Systems for Concrete Slabs

Find a Concrete Contractor in Your Area

The Four Key Components of Snow Melting Systems

Who is Using Snow Melt Systems and Why?

Hydronic Systems

• System Description
• Power Requirements
• Elements of Successful Operation of Hydronic Heating Systems
• Links to More Information from Uponor

Electric Systems

• System Description
• Power Requirements
• Links to More Information

Hydronic versus Electric: Snow Melting System Comparison Table

Installation Procedures of Snow Melting Systems

Costs to Install and Operate Snow Melting Systems

Factors to Consider before Choosing a System

The Importance of Insulation

System Sensors and Controls

Making Repairs to Snow Melt Systems

Concrete driveways offer many advantages over asphalt, including greater durability, longer service life, and less maintenance. But in the winter, when temperatures plummet and the snow flies, concrete and asphalt surfaces have equal maintenance needs: Both require frequent shoveling and de-icing.

Or do they? Some homeowners and businesses are keeping their concrete driveways and other exterior flatwork surfaces maintenance-free and safe year-round by installing ice and snow melting systems. Not only do these in-slab snow melt systems eliminate plowing, backbreaking shoveling, and icy spills, they prevent potential damage to the concrete caused by snow-removal equipment and corrosive de-icers.

Though contractors usually install these systems in new slabs before placing the concrete, the heating elements also can be retrofitted into existing slabs.

Generally, two types of snow melting systems are available for use in exterior slabs on grade: hydronic snow melt and electric snow melt systems. Both rely on four key components to turn the entire slab surface into a radiant heat source.