When Rossi Contractors took on this new construction in Melrose Park, Illinois, they needed a reliable, powerful solution to keep the massive 2,024 sq. ft. driveway clear and safe during harsh Chicago winters. Shoveling or plowing such a large area would be a constant, labor-intensive chore. WarmlyYours delivered a robust electric snow melting system, embedding durable heating cables directly into the new concrete pour, creating an automated, efficient solution that adds significant value and convenience to the property.
Project Details
- Location: Melrose Park, Illinois
- Heated Space Type: Driveway (New Concrete)
- Square Footage: 2,024 sq. ft.
- Power: 71,108 Watts (71.11 kW), 240 Volts, 296 Amps
- Operating Cost: ~$12.09 per hour (while actively melting)
- Products Used: WarmlyYours Snow Melt Cables, Advanced Snow and Ice Melt Control (SCA-DUAL), Aerial Snow Sensor (AIR-SS-2), Relay Panels
A Smart Solution for Chicago Winters
For large properties in climates like Melrose Park, IL, a heavy snowfall isn't just an inconvenience—it's a major logistical problem. The challenge for this new residential project, managed by Rossi Contractors, was its expansive 2,024 sq. ft. driveway. Keeping this surface clear of snow and ice would require significant time, physical labor, or expensive private plowing contracts, not to mention the corrosive damage from salt and chemical de-icers.
The homeowner and contractor opted for a modern, permanent solution: an electric snow melting system from WarmlyYours. During the driveway's construction, our engineers specified a layout of durable 240V Snow Melt Cables, which were laid out and affixed to the rebar before the new concrete was poured. This embeds the powerful radiant heating system directly into the slab, ensuring efficient heat transfer.
The entire system is fully automated thanks to the Advanced Snow and Ice Melt Control and an aerial snow sensor. When the sensor detects moisture and freezing temperatures, it automatically energizes the cables, heating the concrete from within to melt snow and ice on contact. The result is a permanently safe, clear, and accessible driveway all winter long, eliminating the need for shoveling or chemicals and preserving the pristine look of the new concrete.
Featured Products
- Snow Melt Cables: These durable, 240V cables are designed to be embedded directly in concrete, asphalt, or under pavers, providing powerful radiant heat to melt snow and ice.
- Advanced Snow and Ice Melt Control (SCA-DUAL): This "set it and forget it" control is the brain of the system. It pairs with a sensor to automatically activate the system when needed, ensuring efficiency.
- Aerial Snow Sensor (AIR-SS-2): This high-tech sensor detects both temperature and moisture, triggering the control only when conditions are right for snow or ice formation.
- Relay Panels: For a large, high-amperage system like this, heavy-duty relay panels are used to safely manage the electrical load.