/ Products /Snow Melting / Portable Systems

Hopefully, by browsing this page and clicking on the questions below, you should be able to find an answer to your Portable Snow Melting related problem. If that is not the case then you can visit our forum or submit a question to us using Personal Connect, available from the top menu of every screen.

Are the mats dangerous?

No. The mats have a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) below the plug. This GFCI will instantaneously shut off all power to the mat if it detects a current leakage of more than 6mA. Therefore, should there ever be a cut in the mat that could potentially cause harm, the GFCI will immediately detect it and shut off all power to the mat. Also, all mats are tested before leaving our facility with a Hipot machine that pumps 1000 volts through the mats. If, while 1000 volts are going through the mat, the Hipot detects any current leakage beyond a dangerous level, the mat does not get shipped.

Can I drive on the mats?

No. The mats are for foot traffic only.

Can the mat be secured to the ground?

The HeatTrak® mats and stair treads are designed and built with grommet holes to make securing the mats both simple and effective. To secure the mats, we recommend using screws that are appropriate for the specific surface (i.e. wood screws, concrete screws, etc.).

Do I leave the mats on all the time?

The mats only need to be left on during the snowfall and/or for a period of time after the snowfall. Best is to have an electrician wire the outlet to a switch inside the facility. This way the mats can be turned on and off from inside. It is preferable not to remove the mats from the outlet during the winter.

Do I roll the mats up after every use or can they be left outside for a long period of time?

The mats are very durable and are designed to be left outside for the entire winter season. The winter elements will not harm the mat in any way.

Do I turn on the mat before it snows or after it snows?

The best way to use the HeatTrak mats is to turn them on before the snow begins to fall. This way, no snow will accumulate on the mats, since the snow flakes will evaporate as soon as they fall. However, you can turn on the mats after the snow has already fallen. In this case, give the mats a few hours to melt through the snow.

How do I return a HeatTrak® mat?

Call WarmlyYours at (800) 875-5285 and speak with a customer service representative who will assist you in making the return.

How hot does the mat get?

The mats will maintain an average temperature of 40 degrees above the ambient temperature. So for example, if the ambient temperature is 0 degrees Fahrenheit, the mat’s temperature will be approximately 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

How long are the connector cables for the stair mats?

18”. But custom lengths can be done at the customer’s request.

How long does it take to melt the snow?

The mats will melt snow at an average rate of 2” per hour (approximately).

How long is the electrical cord? Can I use an extension cord?

The mat comes with a 6’ long cord. You can use an extension cord as long as you properly cover the connection point of the two cords so that water does not touch the electrical pins.

How long is the warranty?

All HeatTrak products come with a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty.

How many mats can plug into a single outlet?

The number of mats that can plug into a single outlet depends on the mats’ total amperage and the circuit breaker rating. Most household circuits can handle 15 amps. For a listing of the amperage for each mat size, refer to the “Products” page under “Product Specifications”.

How many years will the mats last?

The mats should last 3-5 years if maintained properly. For proper maintenance instructions, see the installation manual that comes with the product.

How much does it cost to run a HeatTrak® mat?

The cost to operate the HeatTrak mat depends on the size of the mat. On average, each mat costs approximately $0.15 an hour to operate. Assuming the mat is on for 4-6 hours per snow day, the approximate cost per snow day to operate is between $0.60 and $0.90.

What happens to the water when the snow melts?

The best way to use the HeatTrak mats is to turn the mat on before the snow begins to fall. This way, there will not be any water accumulation when the snow melts, because the snow flakes will evaporate as soon as they land on the mat. However, you can turn on the mats after the snow has already fallen on them. In this case, give the mat a few hours to melt through the snow. When the snow melts, there will be a slight water run-off, but the run-off will go under the snow that surrounds the mat. Also, there will be small puddles on the mat until the water completely evaporates. But have no fear, these small puddles will be beneath the non-slip treading, so there will not be any slip hazard. Eventually, all the water will evaporate.

What size are the Grommet holes?

3/8”

What type of outlet should I use for the mats?

The plug on the mat looks like the diagrams below. Make sure the outlet you are plugging the mat into has a similar looking receptacle.

What type of voltage do I need to operate the mats?

The mats can be produced to operate on either 120V or 240V current. However, the following mat sizes can only come in 240V: 36”x15’ and 36” x 20’. HeatTrak often makes custom size mats for the customers’ applications. It is best to call us with voltage questions for all custom size mats.

Where is the power cord located on the mat?

The default location of the power cord is on the lower right corner of the mat, which is also the upper left corner if you rotate the mat. The power cord can be reversed to the other side if requested in the purchase order.

Where is the power cord located on the stair mats?

The default location of the power cord on the stair-treads is upper right, which is also lower left if rotated. The power cord can be reversed to the other side if requested in the purchase order.

Will the mats wear out if I leave them on for the entire winter?

No.

Will the mats work if plugged into a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlet?

Yes.