Snow Melting Systems
WarmlyYours snow melting systems embed heating cables under any outdoor surface—driveways, patios, walkways, and stairs—to automatically clear snow and ice while you stay warm inside. More affordable than you'd expect, with smart controls that can activate before the first flake falls.
Why Install Snow Melting?
No More Shoveling
Finally put away the rock-salt and shovels and start enjoying winter again.
No Harmful Chemicals
Do away with chemical melting agents, which will be easier on your pets and your vehicles.
Peace of Mind
Melts the ice and snow, providing a safe passageway for you and your family, as well as guests to your home.
Easy to Install
No pipes, boilers, tubing, tanks or noisy pumps to install.
Affordable
Most systems are inexpensive to run and require no regular maintenance.
Safe
CSA certified for outdoor use in the US and Canada.
How Much Does It Cost to Run Snow Melting Systems?
Typical Operating Costs (Per Hour and Per Snow Event)
Per Hour
$0.12–$0.60
Per Snow Event
$0.72–$3.60
Snow melting systems are highly efficient and typically cost just $0.12–$0.60 per hour. For a typical 6-hour snow event, that works out to about $0.72–$3.60 per storm. The system only runs when needed—during snow events—making it much more cost-effective than traditional snow removal methods like plowing services or chemical deicers.
What Factors Affect Operating Cost?
Several key factors determine how much your snow melting system will cost to run:
- Heated area size — heating a small walkway costs far less than heating a large driveway.
- Coverage type — full coverage vs. tire tracks significantly impacts energy usage and costs.
- Snow event duration — typical 6-hour operation vs. extended storms affects total costs.
- Electricity rates — local kWh pricing (average $0.175 per kWh) directly impacts costs.
Why Snow Melting Systems Are More Efficient Than Traditional Methods
Snow melting systems only operate when needed—during actual snow events—unlike plow services that charge per visit or chemical deicers that need repeated application. The system melts snow as it falls and evaporates leftover water, providing continuous protection without the ongoing costs of manual snow removal. Plus, you'll never have to worry about shoveling or slipping on ice again. Read more about snow melting operating costs.
Operating Cost Calculator for Snow Melting
Calculate driveway heating costs based on size, coverage type, and local energy rates.
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Average snowfall is 6 hours. Includes 3 hours post-snowfall to fully evaporate melted snow.
"A snow melting system is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it solution. No more shoveling, no more slipping—just safe, clear walkways and driveways whenever you need them!"
— Rae RadiantHeating Solutions for Asphalt, Concrete & Pavers
We offer a selection of snow melting systems that heat driveways, patios, walkways, or stairs and can be installed in asphalt, concrete, or under pavers in mortar. Our snow melting systems are available in two formats: mat and cable. The mats are available in two configurations—PowerMat (50 watts/sq.ft for heavy snowfall) and OmniMat (39 watts/sq.ft for moderate climates)—to match your performance needs. The cable system allows for maximum flexibility and generates 12 watts per linear foot. Our systems are available with a selection of different controls, each with different specifications to sense things like air temperature or moisture on the pavement.
Maximum Heat Density for Heavy Snowfall (3" spacing)
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Maximum Heat Output: Approximately 50-watts per sq. ft with 3" cable spacing for fastest snow melting
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Best for Heavy Snowfall: Recommended for regions with 60+ inches of annual snowfall or when rapid melting is critical
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Even Heating: Pre-attached heating elements in a serpentine pattern with consistent 3" spacing ensures uniform coverage
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Fast and Easy Installation: Cut-and-turn design makes installation faster than cables while providing maximum heat density
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Installation Support: Free SmartPlan™ installation plans, 24/7 phone support, and a 10-year limited warranty
Optimal Performance & Energy Balance (4" spacing)
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Balanced Heat Output: Approximately 39-watts per sq. ft with 4" cable spacing for optimal performance and efficiency
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Best for Moderate Snowfall: Recommended for regions with 30-60 inches of annual snowfall—our most popular choice
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Even Heating: Pre-attached heating elements in a serpentine pattern with consistent 4" spacing ensures uniform coverage
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Fast and Easy Installation: Cut-and-turn design makes installation faster than cables while balancing cost and performance
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Installation Support: Free SmartPlan™ installation plans, 24/7 phone support, and a 10-year limited warranty
Maximum Flexibility at a Minimal Cost
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High Heat Output: This embeddable electric heating cable provides 12-watts of heat per linear foot (nearly 50-watts per sq. ft.)
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Embeddable in Concrete, Asphalt, or in Mortar Under Pavers: Installing a cable-based snow melting system within a new driveway, walkway, or patio means you can enjoy snow/ice free outdoor surfaces all year
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Cost-Effective and Flexible: Snow melting cables are an less expensive (but more time consuming) alternative to snow melting mats and they provide maximum flexibility to cover round driveways, cornered patios, or outdoor stairs
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Wide Variety of Voltages: We offer snow melting cables in 120, 208, 240, and 277 voltages and in a range of different lengths
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Installation Support: WarmlyYours offers free SmartPlan™ installation plans, 24/7 phone support, and a 10-year limited warranty
Snow Melting System Control Options
Once you've decided what type of heating system, you'll need to choose a control for your snow melting system. WarmlyYours offer a selection of controls, ranging from a basic manual control to our premium option that provides the ultimate in convenience and hands-off operation. We even offer an affordable and user-friendly WiFi control that can be configured so that the heating system can be controlled remotely or can be energized based on real-time weather events.
Shop Controls
Outdoor Heating Products & Accessories
Snow Melting System Design Guides
Find System Plans by Application Type
Explore curated plans for popular applications, or jump straight into the one that best fits your project to discover recommended Snow Melting solutions.
Get Your Own Plan
Send us your sketch and receive a free SmartPlan with a custom installation layout and itemized quote.
Featured Snow Melting Projects
Check out these customer-submitted projects to see real world examples of how a snow melting system is installed in a variety of different areas.
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Driveway Elmhurst, IL$5.06/hr -
Walkway Elmhurst, IL$0.95/hr -
Driveway Elmhurst, IL$3.63/hr -
Walkway Elmhurst, IL$0.69/hr -
Walkway Lindenhurst, IL$0.45/hr -
Driveway Keokuk, IA$1.60/hr -
Driveway Keokuk, IA$1.62/hr -
Walkway Keokuk, IA$1.33/hr -
Driveway Keokuk, IA$1.18/hr -
Driveway Bartlett, IL$22.73/hr -
Driveway Bartlett, IL$6.11/hr -
Driveway Toronto, ON$5.12/hr
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Driveway Wauconda, IL$3.61/hr -
Driveway Zion, IL$2.67/hr -
Driveway Kildeer, IL$1.59/hr
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Patio Lake Zurich, IL$1.91/hr
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Driveway Kildeer, IL$0.40/hr
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Walkway Hudson, MA$1.20/hr -
Porch Evanston, IL$0.64/hr
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Driveway Mahwah, NJ$9.93/hr
Documents & Articles
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