There has been much debate over low voltage radiant systems versus line voltage radiant systems as radiant heat gains popularity in North America. The aim of this article is to dispel some of the myths surrounding the different kinds of systems. 

What are heated driveways?   The obvious answer is "a driveway that is heated." But what actually heats the driveway? The best heated driveway systems are radiant heating systems, similar to indoor floor heating systems. There are primarily two methods for heating: electric and hydronic. Electric systems use a line-voltage cable, while hydronic systems generate hot water, then pump it through plastic PEX tubing. The heating elements are embedded in the surface and use resistant heating to heat the surrounding area.

The rising concern for energy and the environment has led consumers towards choosing long-lasting, efficient products. Warmzone has chosen to help this initiative by carrying products that offer best-in-class efficiencies to help eliminate wasteful energy consumption. As a 2008 and 2009 nominee for the Green Log Home and Lifestyle Awards for Innovative Green Building Solutions, Warmzone reaffirmed its stance on supporting products and habits that have a positive global impact on the environment.

Many of us are diligent about keeping our walkways and driveways free from snow and ice, but we often overlook the hazards of snow and ice build-up on our roofs. If you live an area plagued with heavy snowfall, the accumulation of snow and ice on your roof can cause major structural damage, especially if you own an older home; not to mention the increased risk of serious injury resulting from falling ice.

Considering that 50 percent of people over the age of 75 will either die or be forced to enter institutional care because of injuries sustained from falls, any kinds of safety precautions are extremely important. Walkways that are frequently used, such as entryways and paths to trash cans, are the highest priority for snow melting. An electric snowmelt system would automatically remove snow and ice and ensure safety, as well as help the elderly to avoid the feeling of burdening friends and family. 

According to the radiant heat experts at Warmzone, the most popular time to install a heated driveway is during the summer and fall. If you are remodeling or building a new home, plan for the winters by exploring the options of installing a radiant heated driveway. These reliable, electric snow melting systems can be automated to take care of snow melting efficiently, are environmentally friendly and virtually maintenance free.

The silent operation of a radiant floor heating system free from drafts or flying dust particles is why these systems are becoming so popular. Home owners are searching for ways in which they can create a healthier environment to live in. Forced air systems can spread dust, pollen and germs while a radiant floor heating system uses electric resistance cables under the floor or PEX tubing that circulates heated water.

Most homes in America are heated using gas, and most of us can’t ignore the rising costs. Lowering the thermostat to barely tolerable temperatures may be your solution, but if you have children who are blissfully ignorant about the cost of heating, they have probably been tempted once or twice to warm things up when you weren’t looking. An alternative heating to gas that is hugely popular in Europe, and one that your children are guaranteed to love, is radiant heat.

Protecting your car wash against the liability of slips and falls is becoming an increasing concern for business owners with car washes in cold climates. If you are in an area that receives heavy precipitation, keeping up with snow and ice removal means constant maintenance. Even the overspray from a car wash can create dangerous walking areas in and around each bay.

Electric radiant heating systems are very cost-effective solutions for smaller spaces (1-5 rooms) because they are easy to install and have a very low start-up cost. An electric thermostat is all that is required and costs only about $100-$200. Another advantage of electric radiant floor heating over a warm-water system is the floor build up or height. Floor build up can be from as little as 2mm. The electric cables are usually installed onto an insulation board or directly onto the subfloor or padding (under carpet or laminate), then the floor covering is placed directly over the heating system or thinset.