Snow Melt Aerial Sensor

After installation the sensor can be tested by cooling the sensor base with either ice (do not immerse the sensor in ice water, it is not water proof) or freeze mist. Locate the internal temperature sensor by first locating the indexing tab (see page 5 of the manual) and apply the mist to the base of the sensor on the opposite side of the indexing tab.

Once the unit is cooled continue by placing a drop of water on the moisture grid. If testing in the winter and the temperature is below 38°F (3.3°C), then simply placing a drop of water or a small amount of snow on the moisture grid will start a heating cycle. To stop the cycles, simply turn off the power for 5 to 10 seconds and then turn it back on.

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.

The AIR-SS-2 can be mounted at a distance up to 500 feet away from the controller using 22-gauge wires and up to 1000 feet using 18-gauge wires.

Yes. Concrete installations are the best candidate for slab sensors because the sensor can be poured directly into the slab alongside the heating cables. Slab sensors measure the surface temperature and moisture level of the concrete, activating the system only when conditions call for melting.

Slab sensors are not limited to concrete: the SLAB-SS specification includes an asphalt installation procedure. Set the sensor flush with the surface, between cable runs.

WarmlyYours snow melting systems support two types of sensors for automatic operation:

Aerial sensor — Mounted above the heated surface (typically on a post or wall), this sensor measures air temperature and detects precipitation. The control activates the system when both conditions are met (cold enough and moisture is present). Aerial sensors are the most common choice because they respond quickly to changing weather and do not require embedding during installation.

Slab sensor — Embedded directly in the concrete or pavers during installation, this sensor measures the surface temperature of the slab. It activates the system when the slab drops below a set threshold and shuts off once the surface reaches the desired temperature. Slab sensors offer precise control over surface conditions but must be installed before the slab is poured.

If you are pouring a new slab, a slab sensor gives the most accurate control. For retrofit or overlay installations, an aerial sensor is typically the better choice. Some controllers support both sensor types simultaneously for enhanced reliability.