Heated driveway installation is a great way to extend the use of your driveway all year round. The decision to install one may be an easy one for you, but there are some things that you will need to know before making this investment. This article will help you learn about driveway heating systems, how they work, and what benefits they have.
How Do They Work?
Driveway heating systems work by running water or antifreeze through electric mats installed under the driveway. This warms the ground and melts snow, ice, mud, and debris off your driveway surface.
Types of Heated Driveway
Heated driveway systems come in three different types:
- Electric mats
- Pex tubing looped together, buried under driveway with a heating source at each end
- Warm water circulated by pumps to keep driveway surfaces free of snow and ice.
How Much Do Driveway Heating Systems Cost?
The cost of driveway heating systems varies depending on the type, size, and how many heating mats are needed. The average installation costs around $2000-$4000 for a typical driveway system in most homes.
How Powerful are These?
Heated driveway systems typically have a wattage of 1200-2000 watts per square meter. This means that the system can melt snow down to -15 degrees Celsius before it needs to be turned on again.
How to Maintain These?
Maintenance is easy. All driveway heating systems should have a shut-off switch, so when it snows or rains, you can turn the system off until conditions improve. They will need to be checked regularly for leaks and damage.
Are Repairs Expensive?
When driveway heating systems are installed correctly, they can be very cost-effective to operate. However, if you do experience problems with your driveway heating system it may require costly repairs or replacement of parts.
Pros of Installation
Some key benefits that you will receive from having a driveway heating system are:
- Extended use of driveway
- Less wear and tear on driveway
- Warmer driveway surface in colder months
Cons of Installation
One downside that driveway heating systems may have is the high cost of installation. The initial investment for driveway heating can be expensive and doesn’t always pay off immediately as it might take some time before you see savings from your heated driveway.
What to Consider When Purchasing a System?
When purchasing your driveway heating system, you will need to consider the following:
- Type of driveway that is being heated (concrete vs. asphalt)
- Size of driveway area that needs warming up
- Budget for driveway heating system
What Types of Driveway Heating Systems Are There?
Asphalt driveway heating systems use electric mats to warm the asphalt surface. Concrete driveway heating systems usually have two separate components: a mat and an additional heater that warms up water or antifreeze before it is pumped through the mat.
How Do You Find a Reputable Heated Driveway Company?
When finding driveway heating installation companies, it’s important to know that you are working with the best driveway heating company possible. Here are some tips for hiring reputable heated driveway professionals:
- Check their certifications and licensing through their state or local authorities if available
- Ask for references and check them
- Check customer reviews online
Best driveway heating companies usually offer free consultations on heated driveway installation so you can ask any questions that come to mind before making a final decision about the company and system of your choice. If this is something that interests you then feel free to contact them or visit their website today!
FAQ
Is Heated Driveway Worth It?
Heated driveway systems are a great investment for those that want to keep their driveway clear of snow and ice all year round. With the right system, you can enjoy an extended driveway until late in spring
How Long Does a Heated Driveway Last?
It depends on how well you maintain your driveway heating system. If it’s installed correctly and maintained regularly, driveway heating systems should last about 15-20 years
Is it Better to Put Salt Down Before it Snows?
Salt should only be used if driveway heating systems fail, as it can cause damage to the mats.