Roof & Gutter Deicing Controls

Yes. The SCW-120-15A WiFi switch includes built-in WiFi and connects to the WarmlyYours SmartControl app. From your smartphone you can turn the deicing system on or off remotely, create manual schedules, and monitor system status from anywhere with an internet connection.

For automatic operation combined with remote monitoring, you can pair an automatic control (SCP-120, SCE-120, or SCA-DUAL) with the aerial sensor—the system runs itself based on real weather conditions while you can still check in remotely using the SCW-120-15A if needed for manual override.

The other controls (SCP-120, SCE-120, SCA-DUAL, SCM-DUAL, AIR-STAT) are standard hardwired controls without built-in WiFi connectivity.

Each WarmlyYours roof deicing control has a maximum rated load:

• SCV-DUAL — 16A (built-in sensor, outdoor-rated enclosure)
• SCP-120 — 24A at 120V
• SCA-DUAL — 30A at 240V
• SCE-120 — 3 × 16A (three-zone control)
• SCM-DUAL / SCW-120-15A — 15–20A depending on model
• AIR-STAT — 22A at 240V

If your roof deicing installation exceeds the capacity of a single control—common for large commercial rooflines, multiple gutters, or multi-zone systems—you will need a relay panel. A relay panel uses the low-current signal from your control to switch heavy-duty contactors, allowing a single control to manage a system far larger than it could handle directly.

Our free system design service will confirm whether a relay panel is required for your installation and which model is correct.

Ice dams form when heat from your attic melts snow on your roof, which then refreezes at the cold roof edge, creating a barrier that traps water and causes leaks.The ice dam formation process:

1. Heat escapes from attic (poor insulation or ventilation)
2. Snow melts on warm upper roof (heat rises to roof surface)
3. Water flows down to cold roof edge (eaves are colder because they overhang the house)
4. Water refreezes at roof edge (forms ice dam barrier)
5. Water backs up under shingles (trapped water causes leaks and damage)

Common causes:

• Poor attic insulation (heat escapes through ceiling)
• Inadequate ventilation (warm air trapped in attic)
• Complex roof design (valleys, dormers create problem areas)
• Heavy snowfall (more snow = more melting potential)
• Temperature fluctuations (freeze-thaw cycles worsen ice buildup)

Why heating cables solve the problem:

• Prevent refreezing (keep roof edge above freezing)
• Create drainage pathways (melt channels for water to flow)
• Protect vulnerable areas (target gutters, valleys, eaves)

Long-term solution: Combine heating cables with proper insulation and ventilation for maximum protection. Learn more about ice dam prevention.

The Aerial Sensor (AIR-SS-2) is a standalone sensor that mounts above the heated area—typically on a fascia board, eave, or exterior wall post. It continuously monitors two conditions:

• Air temperature — Checks whether outdoor temperature is below freezing (or close to it).
• Precipitation — Detects the presence of snow, rain, or ice above the sensor.

When both conditions are met (cold enough + moisture present), the sensor signals the automatic control to activate the roof deicing system. When conditions improve—the temperature rises or precipitation stops—the system shuts off.

The aerial sensor is compatible with the following automatic controls: SCP-120, SCE-120, and SCA-DUAL. It mounts externally and does not require embedding in the roof structure, making it suitable for both new and retrofit installations.

Automatic controls use an aerial sensor to monitor outdoor conditions and activate your roof deicing system only when temperatures are cold enough and moisture is present. The system turns on when it is needed and shuts off automatically—you never have to think about it. This is the recommended approach for most installations because it prevents ice dams before they form and avoids running the system unnecessarily.

Manual controls give you direct on/off control of the system:

• The SCM-DUAL contactor switch includes a 24-hour programmable timer so you can schedule fixed operating windows during known storm hours.
• The SCW-120-15A WiFi switch lets you turn the system on or off remotely from a smartphone app, and also supports manual scheduling.

Automatic controls are strongly recommended for roofs and gutters in climates with frequent freeze-thaw cycles or unpredictable weather. Manual controls are a lower-cost option for small installations or properties where someone can monitor conditions closely.

Turn on roof heating cables when temperatures drop to 32°F (0°C) or below and snow/ice is forecast. For optimal protection, use automatic controls that activate cables based on temperature and moisture conditions.Manual operation:

• Turn on: When temps reach 32°F and snow is expected
• Turn off: When temps rise above 40°F and all ice/snow has melted
• Monitor: Check daily during winter storms

Automatic operation (recommended):

• Thermostat control: Activates at preset temperature (typically 32–38°F)
• Moisture sensor: Detects snow/ice and activates automatically
• WiFi control: Remote monitoring and weather-based activation

Optimal operating temperatures:

• 10–34°F: Peak ice dam formation range (cables should run continuously)
• Below 10°F: Less ice dam risk (snow is drier), but cables should still run
• Above 34°F: Ice dams less likely, but cables can help clear remaining snow

Operating tips:

• Start early: Turn on cables before snow accumulates for best results
• Run during melting: Keep cables on until all snow/ice has melted and drained
• Extend runtime: Run cables for 2–4 hours after snow stops to ensure complete drainage

Energy-saving tip: Smart controls can reduce operating costs by 30–50% by running cables only when needed. Shop control options.