For a new construction project in Eaton Rapids, Michigan, Richard Morris Architecture, LLC required a reliable way to keep a crucial access ramp safe and clear during harsh winter months. WarmlyYours delivered the perfect solution with a 70-square-foot electric snow melting system. Embedded directly in the new concrete, this system provides automated, energy-efficient heating, adding significant value, safety, and convenience by eliminating the need for manual shoveling or corrosive de-icing chemicals.
Project Details
- Location: Eaton Rapids, Michigan
- Heated Space Type: Concrete Ramp
- Square Footage: 70 sq. ft.
- Watts, Volts, Amps: 3500W, 240V, 15A
- Operating Cost: Approximately $0.63 per hour to run.
- For a typical 6-hour snowfall, the cost is about $3.78.
- Assuming four 6-hour snow events per month, the total would be around $15.12.
- Products Used:
- Snow Melt PowerMats
- Advanced Snow and Ice Melt Control (SCA-DUAL)
- Aerial-Mounted Snow Sensor (AIR-SS)
The Story: A Proactive Solution for Winter Accessibility
When designing a new ramp, ensuring year-round accessibility was a top priority for Richard Morris Architecture, LLC. In a state like Michigan, heavy snowfall and ice can render ramps dangerous and unusable, creating a significant safety hazard and a constant maintenance burden. The challenge was to find a solution that was not only effective but also automatic, durable, and cost-efficient.
The WarmlyYours electric snow melting system was the ideal choice. During the construction phase, 70 square feet of durable Snow Melt PowerMats were laid out before the concrete was poured. This process ensures the heating elements are permanently and safely embedded within the ramp itself, providing powerful, even heat distribution from the ground up. The system was wired to an advanced control panel located indoors for easy access and monitoring.
The true beauty of this installation lies in its automation. The system is paired with an aerial-mounted snow sensor that intelligently detects both falling temperatures and the presence of moisture. It automatically activates the heating system only when conditions for snow or ice are present and shuts off once the ramp is clear, maximizing energy efficiency. The result is a perpetually safe and clear walkway, providing peace of mind and effortless convenience for everyone who uses it, without ever lifting a shovel.
Featured Products
- Snow Melt PowerMat: These powerful heating mats are designed for easy roll-out installation in new concrete, asphalt, or mortar under pavers. With 50 watts per square foot, they provide robust heating to keep surfaces free of snow and ice.
- Advanced Snow and Ice Melt Control (SCA-DUAL): This is the intelligent hub of the system. The controller receives signals from the sensor to automatically activate and deactivate the heating mats, ensuring efficient operation only when needed. It is compatible with a wide range of voltages from 100-277VAC.
- Aerial-Mounted Snow Sensor (AIR-SS): This durable, high-tech sensor is the system's weather watch. It reliably detects both temperature and moisture, providing the accurate data needed for fully automated, energy-saving performance.
