Hassle-Free Winters: A Heated Driveway Solution for Chicago


This project highlights a 225 sq. ft. heated driveway in Chicago, IL, designed for automatic snow and ice removal. The system uses embedded heating mats and smart controls to keep the surface clear, providing a safe, convenient, and permanent solution to winter shoveling.

Location
Chicago, IL


Driveway in Chicago, IL

This heated driveway project in Chicago features a snow melting system installed under the new asphalt surface. The automated system eliminates the need for shoveling and ensures a permanently clear, safe path throughout the winter.


Heated Space Type

Watts
10,018 W

Volts
240 V

Amps
41 A

Size
225 sq.ft.

Operating Cost Per Hour

Cost Per Hour Explanation
Based on the system's power consumption and local utility rates, the operating cost of this project is a cost-effective investment in safety and convenience. The 10,048-watt (10.05 kW) system costs approximately $1.45 per hour to run, based on the average residential electricity rate in Chicago. The automated controls ensure that the system only activates when necessary to melt snow and ice, preventing wasted energy and keeping operating expenses minimal. This efficient approach provides a reliable, on-demand solution that is a surprisingly affordable alternative to the recurring expenses and physical strain of manual snow clearing.

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Company Urbane Home
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Project Information:

Facing harsh Chicago winters, this project showcases a permanent and automatic solution to the hassle of shoveling. A 225 sq. ft. driveway was outfitted with a powerful 10,018-watt, 240-volt snow melting system, which utilizes two high-efficiency PowerMats installed beneath the surface. The entire setup is managed by an advanced SCP-120 control, which automatically activates the system based on temperature and moisture, ensuring the driveway remains clear of snow and ice without any manual intervention.

Beyond convenience, the system significantly enhances safety by eliminating the risk of slips and falls on icy surfaces. With an incredibly low operating cost of just $1.45 per hour, this heated driveway is an energy-efficient and affordable investment in year-round safety and winter preparedness. The system leverages professional-grade components, including a Small Relay Panel (RLY-4PL-CC) and a dedicated outdoor junction box (SM-JBOX-IG-S) for a seamless installation. Installed by Urbane Home, this automated snow removal system provides the homeowner with peace of mind, while also protecting the driveway from damage caused by harsh de-icing chemicals and salt. This intelligent, hands-free solution provides year-round benefits and adds considerable value to the property.


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* Electricity rates and usage vary. Estimates may not reflect current operating costs.