Install a Radiant Snow Melting System early in the Summer
As contractors well know, the late season rush to complete projects can be hectic – to say the least. That’s why it’s important to encourage homeowners to begin their radiant heat installation projects as early as possible. Spring and early summer is the ideal time for construction projects, and it makes lives for professional builders a little less stressful as cooler weather looms on the horizon. Completing projects early in the summer also allows contractors to take on more business later in the season, increasing the earning potential for the year.
Completing a project in the spring and early summer is beneficial to home and business owners as well. Having a radiant heat system installed well before the arrival of Old Man Winter allows consumers to get familiar with their systems and troubleshoot any issues if necessary.
Whether your customers are looking to pour new concrete or repair existing pavement, radiant heat installation is an excellent way to increase value and lengthen the lifespan of driveways from harsh snow melting chemicals and snow removal equipment. It’s a smart investment that can also benefit business owners by eliminating slick walkways and parking areas to greatly reduce the chances of injury liabilities from pedestrian “slip-and-fall” accidents. Radiant snow melting systems also eliminate the need for time consuming manual snow removal and the possible injuries and lost work time from shoveling.
With radiant heated driveways and walkways, you get energy-efficient, round-the-clock snow removal to keep areas clear of snow and safe for pedestrians. These automated systems operate silently on renewable energy and are maintenance free.
Radiant heat applications are extremely flexible and adaptable, offering homeowners many options to achieve their goals. ProLine will custom design each system to best meet the specific needs of the customer. Consumers have the option to heat entire areas, a strip in the middle of the driveway, or just two 24-inch wide tire tracks. The layout options are virtually limitless.
Snow melting systems can also be installed in existing concrete or asphalt driveways. Saw cut technology can be used to cut grooves in concrete driveways where the cable is placed. A special epoxy is then placed in the grooves, over the cable. To heat existing asphalt driveways, the heat cable is laid out over the old asphalt and then a new layer of asphalt is applied over the cable. ProLine offers special heat cable that is designed to withstand the extreme temperatures of hot asphalt applications.
To better understand the options available, contact ProLine for free consulting or a free estimate. ProLine has the experience and resources to provide contractors with top tier solutions at preferred pricing, all backed by industry leading customer services. And once you’ve installed one ProLine system, we can refer you for future projects in your area. Call 866.676.9276 today to learn more.
An Easy, Affordable Solution for Ground Fault Protection
In accordance with the National Electrical Code (NEC), all electric snow melting, roof deicing and outdoor pipe heating systems require ground fault protection for safe operation. This often results in time-consuming and costly delays for installers because these breakers can be expensive and difficult to find. However, ProLine has taken steps to eliminate this issue and facilitate a quick, safe installation.
ProLine not only offers contactor panels with built-in ground fault protection, but also offers separate ground fault protection units with snowmelt systems and activation devices. These affordable units provide an easy-to-integrate solution to meet the NEC requirements for snow melting system ground fault protection.
Ground fault protection equipment enclosure.
ProLine offers two ground fault units: the GF-1 and GF-2. The GF-1 unit provides single-circuit protection and the GF-2 provides dual-circuit protection (for 120/208/240VAC circuits up to 60A). Unlike highly sensitive GFCI breakers, ProLine’s GF unit maintains a 30mA fault trip point to help prevent nuisance tripping. The unique design of the units allows installation of standard, off-the-shelf overload breakers into the customer load center. Installers simply size the breaker and wiring for the system (15A to 60A), and then install the GF unit between the load center branch circuit and the sensor/controller and heat cable. The overload breaker protects the wiring while the GF unit provides the ground fault protection.
The ground fault unit is housed in a rugged, NEMA 4X/IP65 rated enclosure, making it suitable for indoor or outdoor installation. The enclosure’s gasket-sealed front access door allows for easy testing and reset. All internal electronic components are specified for -40°C to +60°C operation. The enclosure is designed so that it can be easily surface-mounted near the load center or near the snow melting system, depending on the installer’s preference. The enclosure also features several “knockouts” to provide flexibility for installation and wiring. The base of the ground fault unit’s enclosure can accommodate standard ½ and ¾-inch conduit hubs. Four mounting holes outside the enclosure gasket make mounting simple while ensuring weather-tight performance.
Features
Easy installation; convenient access for wiring
Compatible with inexpensive, off-the-shelf overload circuit breakers
Provides true 30mA trip point GFPE protection
Meets NEC Article 426.28, 427.22, and CEC 62-300 requirements
Protects 120/208/240VAC systems up to 60A (#14-#6 CU-only conductor capacity)
Not Compatible With 277VAC or L-N-L 240VAC
UL listed (U.S. and Canada) NEMA 4X enclosure for indoor or outdoor installation
Sealed, hinged front cover that latches for easy testing and reset access
No overload rating means only two part numbers for simple stocking
Weatherproof and corrosion resistant enclosure
Operating temperature range of -40°F/C to +140°F/+60°C
The GF-1 and GF-2 can be used directly with the WS-2C, WS-5C and WS-8C aerial mount snow sensors. The ground fault units can also be used with ProLine contactor panels, switches, and any system up to 60A. Since the overload protection is provided by the load center breaker, only two GF models are required to cover the full range of 15A to 60A, one or two circuits. This allows ground fault protection with kitted systems without having to identify the customer’s load center type or researching whether a combined overload/GFPE breaker is available and how long it will take to receive.
Including a ground fault unit gives installers all the components necessary to complete the snow melting system so that it is ready to install. And the GF unit provides a ready-made solution when installing or retrofitting a snow melting system in an older facility that was wired well before the term “GFPE” was coined. It’s an easy upgrade to help bring an existing system into compliance with modern code requirements. As your radiant heat partner, ProLine makes the process of installing a snowmelt system as easy as possible.
Radiant driveway heating systems can be installed in a variety of applications, including concrete, asphalt, or under pavers. While ProLine Radiant offers industry leading products and preeminent customer service, perhaps the most important thing to remember is that a radiant snow melting system is only as good as its installation. For this reason, ProLine emphasizes its free installation training and personal installation support services. These services help to ensure a successful installation and satisfied customers. But just how are heated driveway systems installed?
After receiving the heat cable and system components, verify the shipment and make sure all the correct materials have been received. Next, prepare the area where the system is being installed by making sure there are no nails, sharp rocks or other items present that can damage the heating cable.
For concrete heated driveways, install wire remesh over the area that will be heated. After laying out the remesh, place the heat cable over the remesh and use zip ties to secure it to the remesh. This keeps the cable from shifting during the concrete pour. Then place plastic Mesh-Up supports under the remesh (the remesh “clicks” into the slots cut out in the top of the Mesh-Up) to prevent the heat cable from resting on the ground. (The heat cable should be about two inches from the finished surface.)
Use a Megger to repeatedly check the heat cable during the installation. Do this again, just prior to pouring the concrete. If the readings look good, begin pouring the concrete over the heating cable/mats. Be very careful when using shovels and rakes during this process. These metal tools can damage the heat cable, so care must be taken.
A typical concrete slab is 4-inches thick. Follow your concrete contractor’s installation methods and adhere to all building codes. (Again, the heating cable should be approximately 2-inches from the finished surface.)
Most automated driveway heating systems utilize an aerial mount snow sensor to activate the system. This is typically installed at the roof’s edge where it has open access to the elements. When precipitation is present and the temperature is below the adjustable set point (usually set at 39°F), the sensor signals the contactor panel and power is then sent to the heat cable.
For more installation tips, view our online resource of instructional “how to” videos.
Important Note: For warranty and safety purposes, it is necessary for a qualified electrician to connect the system.
Contact ProLine for more information at 866.676.9276.
While many contractors have not installed or worked with radiant heat systems, those who have installed these systems have discovered the relative ease of installation and improvement to their bottom line. And whether you’re installing a heated driveway, heated floors or a roof deicing system, these advanced systems can be easily customized to meet the specific needs of your project. And radiant snow melting heat cables can be installed in just about any medium, including concrete, hot asphalt, or under pavers.
Because of their versatility, radiant snow melting systems are not only ideal for new construction projects, but also for increasing the comfort, convenience and value of existing homes. ProLine can design systems that best meet the unique demands of your clients, whether it’s a retrofit or new construction application.
ProLine snow melting systems are designed for use in a wide variety of mediums and applications, including concrete, asphalt and pavers. The snowmelt systems can be installed to accommodate budgets as well as custom layouts. Snow melting systems can be used to heat entire driveways, tire track layouts, steps, ramps, sidewalks or porches, etc.
Installing Radiant Heat in Asphalt
One of the most popular, affordable, and easy to install mediums for radiant heat is asphalt. Where asphalt gives and flexes according to a wide-range of seasonal temperature changes, the durable, specially designed ProLine heat cable ensures consistent performance to effectively keep driveways clear of snow and ice. The automated systems also feature manual override capability to deal with snow drifts of areas where water may have pooled and refrozen.
The cable’s external jacket is designed specifically for installation in hot asphalt applications, so ProLine’s asphalt heat cable is rated up to 460 degrees for up to 10 minutes. (For additional technical specs and installation information, please refer to the Snow Melting Cable and Mats Data Sheet or Installation Manual.)
ProLine snow melting heat cable is available off the spool or pre-spaced in mats. The mats can be rolled out for quick and easy placement over the area to be heated. Cable off the spool allows greater flexibility for custom shapes and hard-to-reach areas of snow melting systems. In the case of a retrofitting an asphalt driveway with radiant heat, the cable is simply laid out over the existing asphalt and then asphalt is applied over the cable. A compacted layer of 2 inches is recommended. For detailed installation and compacting instructions, please refer to the installation manual.
In addition to offering industry leading heat cable and system components, ProLine also includes unparalleled customer services, including free installation training, installation support, system design and layout, and a wealth of instructional resources online, including “how to” videos. Whatever your goals, you’ll find a range of versatile, affordable radiant snow melting systems flexible enough to meet your goals.
A Few Helpful Installation Tips:
Heating cables should never touch, cross, overlap or get bunched up. Always allow 2 inches of spacing between each cable
For asphalt applications, check the maximum rated heat temperature of the heating cables before you apply hot asphalt and confirm that the asphalt does not exceed this temperature.
If you’re installing mats, but need to make individual runs of heat cable, simply cut the tape backing of the cable mats and then layout the cable accordingly. BUT DO NOT CUT THE HEAT CABLE.
Manually pour small quantities of asphalt on the heating cables and spread it evenly around and over the cables. Repeatedly applying small quantities of asphalt on the heating cables during installation helps to prevent any potential damage to the cable.
Always handle heating cables with care—especially when using tools such as shovels, rakes and wheel barrels to avoid damaging the cables. When using wheelbarrows to dump asphalt, lay down sheets of plywood over the cable to avoid damaging the cable’s outer jacket.
Using a Megger, repeatedly check the cable resistance during the various stages of the installation (as outlined in the installation manual).
A snow melting system is only as good as its installation; therefore, an understanding of the proper installation procedures and local laws, codes and regulations is vital. Call us toll-free at 866-676-9276 to learn more. Our professionals are always happy to answer any questions you may have.
Installers Come to Depend on the Products and Services Offered by ProLine
As a contractor, finding new ways to increase your business and working with partners you can trust is crucial. For contractors searching for a top tier radiant heat solutions provider, ProLine Radiant is the name they can trust.
As a leading provider of radiant heat products and services, ProLine has gained a reputation not only for offering quality products, but of providing the most comprehensive customer services in the industry. Radiant heat installers benefit by partnering with ProLine because of products that can be trusted (making the customer happy), and services that facilitate trouble-free installations.
And because ProLine maintains an extensive record of installers and their performance, the top contractors can be referred future business whenever another ProLine radiant heat system is being installed in the area. This is also an advantage for the customers, who will have their systems installed by experienced professionals. Everyone wins.
Laying out the heating cable (mats) for a heated driveway installation.
ProLine supports a vast network of preferred installers throughout the country with an extensive array of proven products, profound industry knowledge and a vast resource of informative documents, illustrations and “how to” videos. Personal installation support is included with ProLine radiant heat systems and free installation training is also offered. Installers can put ProLine’s experience and wealth of online information and training to work for them, allowing them to install radiant heat systems with confidence.
In addition to offering radiant heat products at wholesale pricing, ProLine is a partner that is committed to offering the best customer service in the business. This is a combination that can’t be beat. Whether you’re looking to install a snow melting, roof heating or floor heating system, ProLine Radiant has it covered.
Of all the services, installers are particularly fond of ProLine’s free installation training courses. These courses are available online or in person at ProLine’s Utah-based headquarters. Here a radiant heat expert covers all the aspects of installing a radiant heat system. Attendees can interact with the instructor and go through the course at his or her own pace. (Generally, the each installation course is completed in about 40 minutes.)
Again, this training benefits the installer and the customer. If the installer still encounters any questions during the installation process, he/she can speak to one of ProLine’s dedicated support staff to assure that the installation is performed correctly. Installers can rest easy when dealing with ProLine, knowing that they are never left out in the cold after the purchase. ProLine strives to give construction professionals all of the resources necessary to confidently add radiant heat installation to their menu of services.
If you’re looking for proven products, and a professional you can trust, look no further than ProLine Radiant. As a contractor, you’ll know that you’re working with pros who have your back. To learn more, call ProLine at 866.676.9276, or sign up online for your free installation training.
What Separates ProLine Radiant from the Competition? Ask Our Customers:
To all potential ProLine customers,
I am a landscape designer, located on the seacoast of New Hampshire. We get plenty of snow in the winter, and I truly believe that heated driveways and walkways are the next big thing for our area, as in some of the more dense residential areas there is often no place to put the snow. However, before recommending radiant heat to my clients, I needed to try it and live with it myself.
This fall, we installed ProLine heating cables in our driveway. So far we have had two storms, one mainly snow, and the other rain and ice. The driveway performed beautifully. During the snow storm, it melted the snow effortlessly. We had forgotten to put it on automatic so it was off during the first part of the storm. After realizing this, we turned the system on, but not before a couple of inches had already fallen, but it still managed to make up for lost time.
During the ice storm, the driveway was DRY, while everything else was covered in a skin of ice. Great success! I’m not much of a snow lover, but I’m actually looking forward to the next storm!
Although I am thus far completely sold on the product, the purpose of this letter is really to rave about ProLine’s customer service and support. These days, good customer service is rare, and great customer service is almost nonexistent. ProLine’s service is in the “great” category. For a new customer, with limited experience in outdoor heating, their technical support was crucial. Having a video web chat with Jim and looking at the schematic of the job before we began was one of the reasons for the success of the project. But the step-by-step instruction was only a part of the support that ProLine provided. Throughout the process they were always in touch. Larry, the account manager, was always there to answer questions, even when he was on vacation!
Brandon visited the site twice to answer questions and offer support, and Jim was always on the other end of the phone to talk to my electrician when it was necessary. They seemed to anticipate our needs and fulfill them before we even knew what they were ourselves.
In my years as a homeowner and landscape designer I have dealt with all sorts of people on all sorts of projects, and the service and support that we experienced from ProLine was among the best. It was a breath of fresh air, and I look forward to hopefully doing a lot of business with them in the future.
– Wickie R., Owner of Drawing Room Ink
ProLine snow melting system installed to heat a paver driveway in New Hampshire.
Other Customer Comments
The first snow fall this winter was the test and the driveway has been ice/snow free all winter! The option to manually turn on the heat system has not been needed since the sensor works so well. My wife and I are very pleased with the results and feel much safer walking outside during the winter now!
– Dan, heated driveway owner
Thanks for supplying my customer with exactly what they needed. Living in multiple locations, the automated concrete heating system you provided was the perfect match for my customers in Idaho. Being new to this type of installation, I expected things to be a little more complicated. A few phone calls after receiving the product within days made the job simple to install. I would have to say that customer service with your company was by far second to none. I look forward to doing business with you in the future and referring you on to other homeowners with snow melting needs.
– Cody, Independent Contractor
Learn more about ProLine Radiant’s professional design/layout services and installation support, as well as ProLine’s free installation training by calling a ProLine radiant heat expert today at 866.676.9276.
Snow Melting Systems – Installation Tips
Premier Snowmelt Systems Backed by Unmatched Customer Service
Electric heated driveways continue to gain popularity among professional builders and homeowners alike as they discover the benefits of these maintenance-free snow melting systems. Featuring easy installation, reliable and energy efficient performance, electric snow melting systems offer environmentally friendly operation for clearing driveways, ramps, steps, parking lots and more of snow and ice.
ProLine Radiant’s fully automated snowmelt systems feature an advanced aerial-mount or in-ground snow sensor. When the sensor detects precipitation and the temperature is below the adjustable set point (typically set at 39°F), it sends a signal to the master controller that is usually installed on a wall in the garage. The controller then sends power to the embedded heat cable to warm the surface.
ProLine controllers for in-ground sensors are small (6×3½-inch), NEMA 1, wall-mount control panels that provide UL listed snow melting for large commercial and custom residential and applications. The controller also offers a feature allowing it to be controlled from an external signal (day/week timer, GSM-module or other signal source). The unit features a manual off/on switch (standby) so the heating system can be manually activated to melt snow or ice that occurs because of wind or shade, further enhancing safety.
For snow melting systems to perform as intended, they must be properly installed. Here are a few basic tips for the proper installation of radiant snow melting system heat cable.
Installing snow melting system heat cable and securing it to the remesh.
Heating Cable – General Installation Tips:
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Maintain proper cable spacing. (Minimum spacing is 2 inches (center-to-center) and maximum cable spacing is 4 inches, center-to-center.)
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Do not allow the heat cables to touch each other.
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Never cut the heating cable.
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Make sure the heating cable is not resting on the ground prior to a concrete or asphalt pour. Secure the cable to remesh that is supported by Mesh-Ups or something similar. The installed heating cable should be 2 inches from the finished surface.
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In concrete applications, avoid running the heat cable through expansion joints. (The joint should be tooled or cut NO deeper than 1¼-inches, and the cable must be ¾ to 1-inch below the bottom of the joint.)
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Do not strain the cable splice by pulling on the cable.
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All of the cable must be embedded, including the entire splice and 6 inches of cold lead
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Do not bend the cable sharply. This may cause the insulation to pull away from the cable and eventually cause the cable to fail.
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When installing heat cable in paver applications, make certain that there is ½-inch of compacted paver sand or stone dust on top of the heating cables or mats. (Cables must be completely encased with no air gaps.)
Contact ProLine (866.676.9276) to learn more about our products and installation support, free training, and professional design and layout services.
How Much will it Cost to Operate a Radiant Heat System?
A common question among homeowners looking to install radiant heat is “How much will it cost to run the system?” Of course, each snow melting or floor heating system is unique, and local utility rates vary throughout the country. However, there is a formula that can be used to give potential buyers a good idea of what the operating cost of their snow melting system will be.
Each ProLine Radiant snowmelt system is custom designed. To ensure optimum performance, each radiant heat system is designed specifically for the conditions of the area in which it is being installed. Everything from the altitude and average snowfall is considered as well as average winter temperatures. The experts at ProLine understand that a radiant heating system is only as good as its installation, which is why ProLine commits so much of its expertise to professional system design, as well as installation support and training. When it comes to complete service, you won’t find a more reliable provider than ProLine Radiant.
To calculate the operating cost of your snow melting system, you’ll first need to obtain the kilowatt-per-hour rate from your local power utility company. These rates vary from region to region, so the rate shown here in the following formula uses the national average kilowatt per hour rate (12 cents) for the formula below.
Determine the total square footage of the area to be heated. (The average American home has an 800-square-foot driveway.)
Multiply the square footage by the heat required (37 watts per square foot for residential). This will give you a total for the watts per square footage required.
Divide this number by 1,000 to convert to kilowatts.
Example (for heating an 800-square-foot driveway): 800 (square feet) x 37 (watts) = 29,600 (total watts).
29,600 divided by 1,000 = 29.6 kw per hour (This is what the power company will charge per one hour of operation.) The average utility rate is 12 cents, therefore: 29.6 x .12 = 3.55. The cost of operation would be $3.55 per hour.
ProLine Radiant’s professional designers configure your snow melting system to best meet your snowmelt needs in the most efficient manner possible. ProLine’s snow melting heat cable is a longtime, proven industry leader that has been installed in commercial and residential applications throughout Northern America. The heat cable is available on spools or pre-spaced in mats (with strips of tape backing) that can be rolled out on site, providing quick and easy “roll-out” installation.
While systems vary, residential snow melting systems typically operate at 37 watts per square foot while commercial snow melting systems operate at 50 watts per square foot. The formula shown here would therefore change accordingly and you would multiply the square footage by 50.
ProLine’s radiant design team provides AutoCAD drawings of each system that includes all the power requirements and technical specs. Customers will know all the information you need prior to any installation taking place, including load calculations, number of breakers, breaker sizes, and so on. ProLine is committed to your success.
Contact a ProLine representative today to learn more about your radiant heating options (866.676.9276).
Troubleshooting Tips for Roofing Installers
Tips for Troubleshooting ProLine Low-voltage Roof Heating Systems
ProLine Radiant’s low-voltage, roof deicing system has proven to be one of the most effective roof heating systems available. This efficient system is ideal for heating roof edges and valleys, as well as gutters and downspouts.
The thin, semi-conductive polymer heating element is self-regulating and can be discreetly secured under metal, shingles or other roofing surface. The flexible heating element can also be nailed or stapled through, further making installation quick and easy, and is polypropylene fused during fabrication to achieve water proofing and protection from alkaline or salt damage.
The advanced low-voltage roof heating element.
If your system is not powering up as it should after installation, try these simple steps to diagnose the problem.
Remove outer casing of the power pack.
Is the system getting power? (Measure the voltage on the supply side of the power pack.)
Is your snow controller or activation device triggered? (Do you have contact closure across the trigger and 24-volt terminals at the top of the regulator board? This will provide the contact closure for the trigger and 24-volt terminals mentioned above.)
With the casing of the power pack removed, verify that you have power reaching each run of the RoofHeat material:
Check each output’s indicator LED (should be lit when triggered and off when not).
Clamp on the amp probe to one output lead at a time to verify that there is current in each output load. (The amount of power will be determined by the length of the heating material in the circuits and the ambient temperature.) At 70°F the current should be approximately 18.5 amps for a 30-foot run of material.
In addition to designing radiant heat systems, ProLine also provides installation support and free installation training. Contact a ProLine representative today to learn more, at 866.676.9276.
Premier System Components, Support and Customer Service
ProLine snow melting systems are among the best in the industry. These fully automated systems are easy to customize to meet the individual snow melting and budget needs of your customers, and will provide efficient, maintenance free performance.
ProLine electric snowmelt systems can be utilized for a variety of radiant heating applications, including concrete, hot asphalt, pavers and more. These snow and ice melt systems are commonly used for a variety of residential and commercial snowmelt applications.
Residence with heated sidewalk and porch.
ProLine snowmelt heat cable is available pre-spaced in mats and on spools, making it a versatile, easy to customize and install for all types of custom snow melting projects. These fully automated electric heated driveways are activated by a high-tech snow sensor that detects moisture and temperature. When it detects precipitation and the temperature is below 39° Fahrenheit, the sensor signals the master controller. The controller then sends power to the embedded heat cable to warm the driveway, ramp or sidewalk. After the snow stops falling, the system remains on for a short time to dry the surface before shutting off automatically.
ProLine snowmelt systems are built from top quality materials and capable of performing under the harshest winter conditions. The convenient design, versatility and durable construction of ProLine electric radiant heat cable and mats make them a favorite among construction professionals throughout the country.
ProLine snow melting mats feature industry-leading heat cable that is pre-spaced in mats that can be easily rolled out during installation, simplifying and expediting the installation process while ensuring proper cable spacing for optimum performance. Unparalleled in performance and user-friendly design, ProLine snow melting heat cable (in mats or on spools) has proven to be one of the most reliable and easy-to-install radiant heating systems on the market.
Whether you plan on heating entire sidewalks, porches, driveways or small spaces, the ProLine radiant heating system can be tailored to meet the unique needs of most any snow and ice melting application. ProLine custom designs each system and includes personal installation support if you need to ensure your customers’ satisfaction – and your success. Contact a ProLine radiant heat expert today to see the options available.
Learn more about ProLine Radiant’s professional design/layout services and installation support, as well as ProLine’s free installation training by calling a ProLine radiant heat expert today at 866.676.9276.
ProLine Radiant Installation Tips
Important Guidelines for Preparing and Installing Radiant Snow and Ice Melting Systems
Although ProLine Radiant offers the industry’s premier radiant heat products and system components, it is important to remember that a radiant heat system is only as good as its installation. That’s why it’s so important to work with a radiant heat provider that offers complete radiant heat services, including professional system design and expert installation support services.
While many radiant heat providers claim to offer installation support, the fact is that most do not have a dedicated support staff of electrical and installation experts. Some unscrupulous businesses can be very persuasive to get consumers to buy, but after the purchase, the customer’s nightmare often begins. When you work with ProLine, you can count on having access to experienced pros to help you through the installation process.
Example of a radiant snow melting system warranty card.
Here are some important tips for installing radiant heat systems:
Record Resistance Values in Warranty Card – First and foremost, keep your warranty valid by following the installation instructions and using a megohmmeter to measure the cable readings before, during and after the installation process as outlined. (The megohmmeter is a special type of ohmmeter used to measure the electrical resistance of insulators.) Measuring the cable’s ohm reading during the installation process provides the required warranty information and can reveal if any cable has been damaged during the install.
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Check the ohm value shown on the cable tag as soon as you receive the cable. Write the value in the space provided on the warranty card.
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Measure the ohm reading of the cable and record the results in the space provided on the warranty card.
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Lay the cable out and secure it so that it is ready to be embedded (under concrete, asphalt or pavers) and then measure the cable’s ohm reading. Record this value in the space provided on the warranty card.
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Apply the top layer (concrete, asphalt or pavers) and measure the ohm reading. Record the results in the space provided on the warranty card.
Cable Installation Tips
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Always maintain proper cable spacing. (Cables should be spaced no less than 2 inches apart (center-to-center) and no more than 4 inches, center to center. Minimum spacing is 2 inches. Maximum cable spacing is 4 inches.)
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Never allow the cables to cross or touch each other. (Keep a cable spacing of at least 2 inches.)
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Never cut the heating cable.
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In concrete and asphalt applications, the heating cable should be 2 inches from the finished surface. (The heating cable should never be resting on the ground prior to the pour.)
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DO NOT run heating cable through an expansion joint. (Make sure the joint is tooled or cut no deeper than 1¼-inches. The cable must be ¾ to 1-inch below the bottom of the joint.)
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Do not flex or strain the heat cable splice by pulling on the cable. Be sure to embed all of the cable, including the entire splice and 6-inches of cold lead.
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Do not kink or bend the cable sharply. Doing so can cause the insulation to “bubble” and pull away from the cable.
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When installing under pavers, make certain that there is ½-inch of compacted paver sand or stone dust on top of the heating cables or mats. (Cables must be completely encased with no air gaps.)
Installation Training
Knowing that a radiant heating system is only as good as its installation, ProLine offers free installation training, conveniently available online as well as in person at our corporate headquarters. ProLine also provides free training at rep locations throughout the country. Special training sessions may also be set up at your convenience. Our personal instructors will cover all the necessary topics and answer any questions you may have to give you the knowledge and confidence necessary to install interior and exterior radiant heat systems. These courses will help you gain the confidence you need to install radiant heated driveways, heated floors and roof deicing systems.
Contact ProLine to learn more about our products and installation support, free training, and professional design and layout services.
Self-regulating Heat Cable for Roof and Gutter Heat and Pipe Tracing Applications
To supplement your roofing business, you may want to consider installing ProLine roof heating systems for your customers. ProLine pre-assembled (pre-terminated) self-regulating heat cable is the premier solution for quick, easy installation for roof and gutter heating and pipe trace applications. These pre-assembled plug-and-play kits come with the option of a standard power cord with or without a GFCI power plug. The termination, power connection, splice, tee, and end seal kit reduces installation time and requires no special skills or tools.
ProLine’s PLSRL cable is most frequently used for roofs. This cable features a flexible outer jacket and durable carbon core, providing consistent performance, long lifespan, and easy installation in cold temperatures. Other types of self-regulating heat trace cable in ProLine’s wheelhouse include:
PLSRR – This UL-listed self-regulating heat cable can be used for roof / gutter heating and pipe tracing applications. The cable features a flexible, UV stabilized thermoplastic elastomer overjacket that protects the durable carbon core for wet applications and exposure to the sun. This parallel heating cable is designed for a variety of industrial applications and environments, including explosion-hazardous and nonhazardous areas. PLSRR, and can be used for plastic or metal pipe freeze protection and temperature maintenance of pipes, tanks, valves. Includes a NON-PRORATED 10-year warranty.
PLSRP self-regulating heat cable is an industrial grade self-regulating heat cable designed for pipe trace applications. The cable features a flexible outer jacket and durable carbon core, providing consistent performance, long lifespan, and easy installation in cold temperatures.
PLSRS is an industrial grade self-regulating heat cable is designed for pipe trace applications. The cable features a flexible outer jacket and durable carbon core, providing consistent performance, long lifespan, and easy installation in cold temperatures.
PLSRM self-regulating heat cable is designed for pipe trace applications. The cable provides safe, reliable heat tracing for freeze protection or temperature maintenance of pipes, valves, flanges. PLSRM heat cable is suitable for use on small diameter plastic or metal pipes and instrument tubing in residential and light commercial applications. The cable features a flexible outer jacket and durable carbon core, providing consistent performance, long lifespan, and easy installation in cold temperatures.
Self-regulating heat cable for pipe trace applications.
ProLine roof and gutter heating cable is UL recognized under the Appliance Wire Classification (file E76498) and meets the requirements of the NEC (National Electric Code) Section 426.
Adding ProLine roof and gutter snow melting systems to your menu of services is a logical, easy way to generate additional business with your existing customers.
Learn more about ProLine Radiant’s professional design/layout services and installation support, as well as ProLine’s free installation training by calling a ProLine radiant heat expert today at 866.676.9276.
ProLine Radiant Floor Heating Solutions
A Wide Variety of Trusted Products
The cooling temperatures are a great incentive to continue to grow your business by installing ProLine radiant heated floors. Loyalty and word of mouth can drive your business, and ProLine products will give you just the reputation you need to continue to build on yours. ProLine floor heating systems are compatible with all standard sub-flooring materials, and offer the premium performance you’d expect from an industry leader. Installation is easy, and once complete, the systems deliver comfortable, even floor heat. And good performance is good for business. (ProLine also offers free installation training.)
Each radiant floor heating job you take on is as unique as the customers you serve. Available on spools or pre-spaced on an adhesive-backed fiberglass mesh, ProLine cable is flexible to meet these demands. Either product can be rolled and cut on site for quick installation, allowing you to tackle challenging, custom-shaped floor-heating projects for your customers with ease.
ProLine floor heating cable can be fitted under just about any flooring surface, and all adjustments of cable spacing (and coverage) can be made onsite. ProLine twin conductor design is matched with premium materials designed to withstand the harshest conditions. It also includes built in ground fault (GFCI) protection and emits no measurable electromagnetic fields (EMF).
ProLine systems also come with a GFCI protected thermostat and strapping to secure and properly space the heating cable. To simplify installation and final hookup, the cable is harnessed with a single lead. And all ProLine cable is UL/CSA approved and is covered by a 10-year manufacturer warranty.
ProLine floor heating mats are simply pre-configured ProLine cable that is pre-spaced in mats for easy installation. They’re compatible with all standard sub-flooring materials, and can be installed directly under tile, natural stone and a variety of hard surfaces. Their low 3/16-inch (3 mm) profile makes these mats great for renovations. They’re also pre-terminated for use with 120V and 240V, and available in various lengths (heating a width of 24-inches).
ProLine thermostats are specifically designed to control electric radiant floor heating systems for maximum comfort and minimum energy consumption. Like spool cable and flooring mats, ProLine thermostats include a Class A GFCI. During conditions that trigger a snow event, an external sensor communicates with the thermostat to turn the cables on or off. Or the thermostat can be configured for control of the floor temperature and regulator without a sensor. The thermostat and GFCI are dual voltage models suitable for 120/240V, 50/60Hz power supplies.
Flexibility and convenience are the hallmark of the ProLine product line. These systems are also matched by outstanding customer support and education available online, and over the phone. ProLine floor heating systems include.
TileHeat – ProLine TileHeat is designed to effectively warm ceramic tile floors. The thin heating cable minimizes floor buildup and is available on spools or pre-spaced in mats for easy “roll out” installation. This system is also effective in heating most other types of floor surfaces.
Radiant floor heating mats being installed to warm a basement floor.
Slab/Storage Heat – The Storage Heat cable is designed for installation in concrete slabs, where it efficiently distributes and stores heat. The cable has a slightly larger diameter than other ProLine floor heating cables, allowing it to be lower in cost and higher in heat output. The cable is installed in the concrete slab below the flooring materials and is most often used in new construction where overall material cost is a primary concern.
FoilHeat – FoilHeat is an ultra thin electric radiant floor heating system designed primarily for use under laminate, engineered wood, glued hardwood and other floating floors. The system is made with fluoropolymer insulated heating cables that are sandwiched between two layers of specially reinforced aluminum foil. FoilHeat mats can be cut and shaped on site to meet the specific requirements of the project.
Call ProLine to learn more about our products and installation support, free training, and professional design and layout services. Call ProLine today at (866.676.9276).
Nothing Matches ProLine Product Quality and Customer Service
What are the components of a heated driveway and how are these systems installed? How do they work? Do snow melting systems require routine maintenance? And what types of mediums can ProLine heated driveways be installed in?
There are two types of radiant heat technologies: electric and hydronic. Both technologies are fully automated and can be installed in virtually any typical medium, including concrete, asphalt and pavers. Consumers throughout Northern America have successfully installed radiant heat in a variety of applications, including: heated driveways, loading docks, runaway truck ramps, sidewalks and bridges, boat decks, and so on.
Hydronic snow melting systems are a little more complex than their electric counterpart, and utilize a series of pumps, manifolds and a boiler that may require some maintenance. However, ProLine electric snowmelt systems feature silent operation and are maintenance free.
Electric heated driveways require no maintenance because they have no moving parts. The systems utilize three major system components: The heating cable, an activation device (snow sensor), and master controller/control unit. What makes Warmzone snow melting systems an industry leader is the uncompromising quality of each component.
The Heating Cable
ProLine snow melting heat cable is a proven industry leader that is easy to customize and install. The cable is designed to withstand the stress of heavy concrete pours and the extreme temperature of hot asphalt installations. The cable is UL listed and consists of a twin conductor with FEP/XLPE insulation and polyolefin jacketing to provide flexibility and UV protection. The heat cable is rated at 220°F and has a minimum 10-year warranty. Because of its performance and reliability, ProLine snow melting cable is a preferred cable among construction professionals.
The Snow Sensor (Activation Device)
ProLine systems feature either an aerial-mount or pavement-mount activation device (snow sensor). When the sensor detects precipitation and temperatures are below the adjustable a set point (usually set at 39°F), it signals the controller, which then sends power to the heat cable. ProLine offers several types of snow sensors to best meet the demands of each project. In addition to the adjustable set point, the aerial snow sensors feature adjustable delay off cycles and upgradeable remote activation. The activation device is also smart system compatible.
The pavement-mounted snow sensor is mounted directly in the surface of the area being heated. These sensors are typically used in large commercial applications, while the aerial-mount activation device is used in most residential snow melting systems.
The Master Controller
The master controller used with the pavement-mount snow sensor is a small, NEMA 1 control panel that is typically mounted on a wall in the garage. These 6×3.5-inch units are designed so that they can be controlled from an external signal (day/week timer, GSM-module or other signal source). The snow melting control unit can be switched on/off (standby) and the heating system can be manually turned on in case wind causes snow drifts or ice forms in the shade.
Learn more about ProLine Radiant’s professional design/layout services and installation support, as well as ProLine’s free installation training. Call a radiant heat expert today at 866.676.9276.
ProLine’s Floor Heating Systems Feature Industry Leading Components, Backed by Unmatched Customer Services
ProLine Radiant offers a selection of industry leading floor heating solutions. From its own trusted heat cable to the innovative low-voltage polymer heating element, ProLine carries the top floor heating solutions for any custom commercial or residential radiant heat project, designed to heat virtually any type of flooring. In addition to providing the industry’s premier floor heating elements, ProLine also offers the most advanced system controllers and thermostats, including the state-of-the-art WIFI Touch Thermostat.
► Sleek design and intuitive control designed for easy installation
► 3.5-inch color screen with easy interactive touch control
► New easy scheduling method and simple on-the-fly changes
► Power consumption can be tracked and saved to a PC with a few simple steps
► Thermostat settings can be exported to web page for support
► Provides universal compatibility with existing floor heating sensors
► Suitable for tile, stone, laminate, concrete and wooden floor
► 5-year battery backup of clock and calendar
Smart Interaction
The touch color screen makes thermostat use smart and easy. An entire screen is designed for every action, and therefore programming, schedule override or setting up becomes much easier for both the installer and end user.
Easy Installation
No thermostat could be easier to install. The thermostat features an installer wizard that ensures a fast and smooth installation process. There’s no complicated wiring and no need to remember special settings. Connect the wires, turn on the power and follow the wizard.
Smooth Programming
Thermostat programming is based on 6-event days. You can copy one day schedule to any other day with a single operation. Schedule overrides are only a touch away – until the next event, for a number of hours or days, in the future, or until next time you change your mind. The thermostat comes with a default schedule already programmed, which you can easily modify.
Power Logging
Follow the thermostat power consumption in the energy log. Logging of the last 24 hours is saved in high resolution, but logging history is also stored in the thermostat. Power logging is easily stored to your computer by use of our QR technology.
QR Code Provides Revolutionary Support
By using any device with web access you can monitor the thermostat settings and energy log. Simply scan the QR code from the thermostat and view the data on your device. The interactive manual details the functions and capabilities and options available with the thermostat. The QR code can also be forwarded to a supporter, shortening downtime used on “what is” explanations and jumping directly to “what to do” time.
Control the Power
The thermostat’s default setting allows it to control the ambient temperature and protect the floor from overheating. Any floor sensor can be used to replace the default floor sensor. The floor protection is ideal for laminate and wood, when lower maximum temperature may be required. The floor heating system can be programmed to turn on and shutoff according to your schedule, making it convenient and cost effective.
Contact ProLine to learn more about our snow melting and floor heating products and installation support, free training, and professional design and layout services. Call ProLine today at (866.676.9276).
