No More Shoveling: A Safe, Snow-Free Welcome in Chicago

Chicago winters are relentless, turning outdoor stairs into a hazardous icy obstacle. For this 139 sq. ft. front porch and concrete stairway, DONALD GRAY CARPENTRY installed a powerful WarmlyYours snow melting system. This robust solution provides automated safety and convenience, eliminating the need for back-breaking shoveling or corrosive salts and adding significant peace of mind to this Illinois home.

Project Details

Location: Chicago, Illinois
Heated Space Type: Outdoor Porch & Concrete Stairs
Square Footage: 139 sq. ft.
Watts, Volts, Amps: 6509 W, 240V, 27 A
Operating Cost Per Hour: ~$0.94 per hour (based on current Chicago electricity rates)
Products Used: Snow Melt Cable, Advanced Snow and Ice Melt Control (SCA-DUAL), Aerial-Mounted Sensor (AIR-SS-2), Relay Panel

Making a Chicago Porch Safe and Accessible All Winter

For any homeowner in Chicago, dealing with snow and ice on walkways is a constant winter battle. The owner of this home wanted a permanent, automated solution for their new front porch and stairs, which were set to be finished with durable stone tile. They hired the experts at DONALD GRAY CARPENTRY to manage the custom installation. The primary challenge was ensuring complete, reliable snow melting for 139 sq. ft. of outdoor stairs and landing—a critical and high-traffic entry point to the home.

The solution was a 6,509-watt WarmlyYours Snow Melt Cable system. The durable, 240V cable was installed at 3-inch spacing and embedded directly into the new concrete slab before the stone tiles were set. This installation method ensures maximum heat transfer, efficiently warming the surface from below.

This system is paired with an advanced aerial-mounted snow sensor, which automatically activates the system only when it detects both cold temperatures (below 38°F) and moisture. This "set-it-and-forget-it" system keeps the stairs and porch completely clear of snow and ice, preventing dangerous slips and falls. It also protects the beautiful stone finish from the damaging and corrosive effects of chemical ice melts, preserving the home's curb appeal and investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much does it cost to run an outdoor snow melting system in Chicago ?

The operating cost depends on the system size and local electricity rates. This 139 sq. ft. project in Chicago costs about $0.94 per hour while active. Because the system only runs during snow or ice, it is very cost-effective compared to manual removal or chemical treatments.

2. How does an automatic snow melting system work?

An outdoor sensor (like the aerial-mounted one used here) detects both freezing temperatures and moisture. When it snows or sleets, the sensor signals the control panel to turn the system on. The embedded cables heat the concrete or stone, melting the snow and ice and preventing accumulation.

3. Is an electric snow melting system energy efficient?

Yes, because it is a "set-it-and-forget-it" system. Unlike a system that runs on a simple timer, an smart sensor-driven system only consumes energy when it's actually needed to melt precipitation. This targeted operation prevents energy waste.

4. What type of flooring works with Electric Snow Melt system?

This snow melt cable system is designed to be installed in a new concrete, asphalt, or mortar base. It works perfectly under concrete, pavers, and stone or tile, like in this project. For indoor comfort, we offer different electric floor heating systems like in-floor heating mats and cables that work with nearly all flooring types.