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Feedback from the Field

What Separates ProLine Radiant from the Competition? Ask Our Customers:

To all potential ProLine customers,

I am a landscape designer, located on the seacoast of New Hampshire. We get plenty of snow in the winter, and I truly believe that heated driveways and walkways are the next big thing for our area, as in some of the more dense residential areas there is often no place to put the snow. However, before recommending radiant heat to my clients, I needed to try it and live with it myself.

This fall, we installed ProLine heating cables in our driveway. So far we have had two storms, one mainly snow, and the other rain and ice. The driveway performed beautifully. During the snow storm, it melted the snow effortlessly. We had forgotten to put it on automatic so it was off during the first part of the storm. After realizing this, we turned the system on, but not before a couple of inches had already fallen, but it still managed to make up for lost time.

During the ice storm, the driveway was DRY, while everything else was covered in a skin of ice. Great success! I’m not much of a snow lover, but I’m actually looking forward to the next storm!

Heated driveway with brick pavers

Although I am thus far completely sold on the product, the purpose of this letter is really to rave about ProLine’s customer service and support. These days, good customer service is rare, and great customer service is almost nonexistent. ProLine’s service is in the “great” category. For a new customer, with limited experience in outdoor heating, their technical support was crucial. Having a video web chat with Jim and looking at the schematic of the job before we began was one of the reasons for the success of the project. But the step-by-step instruction was only a part of the support that ProLine provided. Throughout the process they were always in touch. Larry, the account manager, was always there to answer questions, even when he was on vacation!

Brandon visited the site twice to answer questions and offer support, and Jim was always on the other end of the phone to talk to my electrician when it was necessary. They seemed to anticipate our needs and fulfill them before we even knew what they were ourselves.

In my years as a homeowner and landscape designer I have dealt with all sorts of people on all sorts of projects, and the service and support that we experienced from ProLine was among the best. It was a breath of fresh air, and I look forward to hopefully doing a lot of business with them in the future.

          – Wickie R., Owner of Drawing Room Ink

Radiant snow melting system heating paver driveway.
ProLine snow melting system installed to heat a paver driveway in New Hampshire.

Other Customer Comments

The first snow fall this winter was the test and the driveway has been ice/snow free all winter! The option to manually turn on the heat system has not been needed since the sensor works so well. My wife and I are very pleased with the results and feel much safer walking outside during the winter now!

          – Dan, heated driveway owner

Thanks for supplying my customer with exactly what they needed. Living in multiple locations, the automated concrete heating system you provided was the perfect match for my customers in Idaho. Being new to this type of installation, I expected things to be a little more complicated. A few phone calls after receiving the product within days made the job simple to install. I would have to say that customer service with your company was by far second to none. I look forward to doing business with you in the future and referring you on to other homeowners with snow melting needs.

          – Cody, Independent Contractor

Learn more about ProLine Radiant’s professional design/layout services and installation support, as well as ProLine’s free installation training by calling a ProLine radiant heat expert today at 866.676.9276.


Snow Melting Systems – Installation Tips

Premier Snowmelt Systems Backed by Unmatched Customer Service
Electric heated driveways continue to gain popularity among professional builders and homeowners alike as they discover the benefits of these maintenance-free snow melting systems. Featuring easy installation, reliable and energy efficient performance, electric snow melting systems offer environmentally friendly operation for clearing driveways, ramps, steps, parking lots and more of snow and ice.

ProLine Radiant’s fully automated snowmelt systems feature an advanced aerial-mount or in-ground snow sensor. When the sensor detects precipitation and the temperature is below the adjustable set point (typically set at 39°F), it sends a signal to the master controller that is usually installed on a wall in the garage. The controller then sends power to the embedded heat cable to warm the surface.

ProLine controllers for in-ground sensors are small (6×3½-inch), NEMA 1, wall-mount control panels that provide UL listed snow melting for large commercial and custom residential and applications. The controller also offers a feature allowing it to be controlled from an external signal (day/week timer, GSM-module or other signal source). The unit features a manual off/on switch (standby) so the heating system can be manually activated to melt snow or ice that occurs because of wind or shade, further enhancing safety.

For snow melting systems to perform as intended, they must be properly installed. Here are a few basic tips for the proper installation of radiant snow melting system heat cable.

Installing snow melting mats
Installing snow melting system heat cable and securing it to the remesh.

Heating Cable – General Installation Tips:

 ► Maintain proper cable spacing. (Minimum spacing is 2 inches (center-to-center) and maximum cable spacing is 4 inches, center-to-center.)
 ► Do not allow the heat cables to touch each other.
 ► Never cut the heating cable.
 ► Make sure the heating cable is not resting on the ground prior to a concrete or asphalt pour. Secure the cable to remesh that is supported by Mesh-Ups or something similar. The installed heating cable should be 2 inches from the finished surface.
 ► In concrete applications, avoid running the heat cable through expansion joints. (The joint should be tooled or cut NO deeper than 1¼-inches, and the cable must be ¾ to 1-inch below the bottom of the joint.)
 ► Do not strain the cable splice by pulling on the cable.
 ► All of the cable must be embedded, including the entire splice and 6 inches of cold lead
 ► Do not bend the cable sharply. This may cause the insulation to pull away from the cable and eventually cause the cable to fail.
 ► When installing heat cable in paver applications, make certain that there is ½-inch of compacted paver sand or stone dust on top of the heating cables or mats. (Cables must be completely encased with no air gaps.)

Contact ProLine (866.676.9276) to learn more about our products and installation support, free training, and professional design and layout services.

Customer Comments

Heated Driveway

The first snow fall this winter was the test and the heated driveway has been ice/snow free all winter! The option to manually turn on the heat system has not been needed since the sensor works so well. My wife and I are very pleased with the results and feel much safer walking outside during the winter now!

          – Dan, heated driveway owner

Heated driveway with brick pavers

Heated Driveway in Idaho

Thanks for supplying my customer with exactly what they needed. Living in multiple locations, the automated concrete heating system you provided was the perfect match for my customers in Idaho. Being new to this type of installation, I expected things to be a little more complicated. A few phone calls after receiving the product within days made the job simple to install. I would have to say that customer service with your company was by far second to none. I look forward to doing business with you in the future and referring you on to other homeowners with snow melting needs.

          – Cody, Independent Contractor

Learn more about ProLine Radiant’s professional design/layout services and installation support, as well as ProLine’s free installation training by calling a ProLine radiant heat expert today at 866.676.9276.

Calculating Radiant Heat Operating Costs

How Much will it Cost to Operate a Radiant Heat System?

A common question among homeowners looking to install radiant heat is “How much will it cost to run the system?” Of course, each snow melting or floor heating system is unique, and local utility rates vary throughout the country. However, there is a formula that can be used to give potential buyers a good idea of what the operating cost of their snow melting system will be.

Each ProLine Radiant snowmelt system is custom designed. To ensure optimum performance, each radiant heat system is designed specifically for the conditions of the area in which it is being installed. Everything from the altitude and average snowfall is considered as well as average winter temperatures. The experts at ProLine understand that a radiant heating system is only as good as its installation, which is why ProLine commits so much of its expertise to professional system design, as well as installation support and training. When it comes to complete service, you won’t find a more reliable provider than ProLine Radiant.

Heated driveway with brick pavers

To calculate the operating cost of your snow melting system, you’ll first need to obtain the kilowatt-per-hour rate from your local power utility company. These rates vary from region to region, so the rate shown here in the following formula uses the national average kilowatt per hour rate (12 cents) for the formula below.

  1. Determine the total square footage of the area to be heated. (The average American home has an 800-square-foot driveway.)
  2. Multiply the square footage by the heat required (37 watts per square foot for residential). This will give you a total for the watts per square footage required.
  3. Divide this number by 1,000 to convert to kilowatts.

Example (for heating an 800-square-foot driveway): 800 (square feet) x 37 (watts) = 29,600 (total watts).

29,600 divided by 1,000 = 29.6 kw per hour (This is what the power company will charge per one hour of operation.) The average utility rate is 12 cents, therefore: 29.6 x .12 = 3.55. The cost of operation would be $3.55 per hour.

ProLine Radiant’s professional designers configure your snow melting system to best meet your snowmelt needs in the most efficient manner possible. ProLine’s snow melting heat cable is a longtime, proven industry leader that has been installed in commercial and residential applications throughout Northern America. The heat cable is available on spools or pre-spaced in mats (with strips of tape backing) that can be rolled out on site, providing quick and easy “roll-out” installation.

While systems vary, residential snow melting systems typically operate at 37 watts per square foot while commercial snow melting systems operate at 50 watts per square foot. The formula shown here would therefore change accordingly and you would multiply the square footage by 50.

ProLine’s radiant design team provides AutoCAD drawings of each system that includes all the power requirements and technical specs. Customers will know all the information you need prior to any installation taking place, including load calculations, number of breakers, breaker sizes, and so on. ProLine is committed to your success.

Contact a ProLine representative today to learn more about your radiant heating options (866.676.9276).


Troubleshooting Tips for Roofing Installers

Tips for Troubleshooting ProLine Low-voltage Roof Heating Systems

ProLine Radiant’s low-voltage,  roof deicing system has proven to be one of the most effective roof heating systems available. This efficient system is ideal for heating roof edges and valleys, as well as gutters and downspouts.

The thin, semi-conductive polymer heating element is self-regulating and can be discreetly secured under metal, shingles or other roofing surface. The flexible heating element can also be nailed or stapled through, further making installation quick and easy, and is polypropylene fused during fabrication to achieve water proofing and protection from alkaline or salt damage.

Low-voltage heating element
The advanced low-voltage roof heating element.

If your system is not powering up as it should after installation, try these simple steps to diagnose the problem.

Remove outer casing of the power pack.

Is the system getting power? (Measure the voltage on the supply side of the power pack.)

Is your snow controller or activation device triggered? (Do you have contact closure across the trigger and 24-volt terminals at the top of the regulator board? This will provide the contact closure for the trigger and 24-volt terminals mentioned above.)

With the casing of the power pack removed, verify that you have power reaching each run of the RoofHeat material:

  1. Check each output’s indicator LED (should be lit when triggered and off when not).
  2. Clamp on the amp probe to one output lead at a time to verify that there is current in each output load. (The amount of power will be determined by the length of the heating material in the circuits and the ambient temperature.) At 70°F the current should be approximately 18.5 amps for a 30-foot run of material.

In addition to designing radiant heat systems, ProLine also provides installation support and free installation training. Contact a ProLine representative today to learn more, at 866.676.9276.

ProLine Snow Melting Systems

Premier System Components, Support and Customer Service

ProLine snow melting systems are among the best in the industry. These fully automated systems are easy to customize to meet the individual snow melting and budget needs of your customers, and will provide efficient, maintenance free performance.

ProLine electric snowmelt systems can be utilized for a variety of radiant heating applications, including concrete, hot asphalt, pavers and more. These snow and ice melt systems are commonly used for a variety of residential and commercial snowmelt applications.

Heated sidewalk and porch
Residence with heated sidewalk and porch.

ProLine snowmelt heat cable is available pre-spaced in mats and on spools, making it a versatile, easy to customize and install for all types of custom snow melting projects. These fully automated electric heated driveways are activated by a high-tech snow sensor that detects moisture and temperature. When it detects precipitation and the temperature is below 39° Fahrenheit, the sensor signals the master controller. The controller then sends power to the embedded heat cable to warm the driveway, ramp or sidewalk. After the snow stops falling, the system remains on for a short time to dry the surface before shutting off automatically.

ProLine snowmelt systems are built from top quality materials and capable of performing under the harshest winter conditions. The convenient design, versatility and durable construction of ProLine electric radiant heat cable and mats make them a favorite among construction professionals throughout the country.

ProLine snow melting mats feature industry-leading heat cable that is pre-spaced in mats that can be easily rolled out during installation, simplifying and expediting the installation process while ensuring proper cable spacing for optimum performance. Unparalleled in performance and user-friendly design, ProLine snow melting heat cable (in mats or on spools) has proven to be one of the most reliable and easy-to-install radiant heating systems on the market.

Whether you plan on heating entire sidewalks, porches, driveways or small spaces, the ProLine radiant heating system can be tailored to meet the unique needs of most any snow and ice melting application. ProLine custom designs each system and includes personal installation support if you need to ensure your customers’ satisfaction – and your success. Contact a ProLine radiant heat expert today to see the options available.

Learn more about ProLine Radiant’s professional design/layout services and installation support, as well as ProLine’s free installation training by calling a ProLine radiant heat expert today at 866.676.9276.


ProLine Radiant Installation Tips

Important Guidelines for Preparing and Installing Radiant Snow and Ice Melting Systems

Although ProLine Radiant offers the industry’s premier radiant heat products and system components, it is important to remember that a radiant heat system is only as good as its installation. That’s why it’s so important to work with a radiant heat provider that offers complete radiant heat services, including professional system design and expert installation support services.

While many radiant heat providers claim to offer installation support, the fact is that most do not have a dedicated support staff of electrical and installation experts. Some unscrupulous businesses can be very persuasive to get consumers to buy, but after the purchase, the customer’s nightmare often begins. When you work with ProLine, you can count on having access to experienced pros to help you through the installation process.

Radiant heat warranty card
Example of a radiant snow melting system warranty card.

Here are some important tips for installing radiant heat systems:

Record Resistance Values in Warranty Card – First and foremost, keep your warranty valid by following the installation instructions and using a megohmmeter to measure the cable readings before, during and after the installation process as outlined. (The megohmmeter is a special type of ohmmeter used to measure the electrical resistance of insulators.) Measuring the cable’s ohm reading during the installation process provides the required warranty information and can reveal if any cable has been damaged during the install.

 ► Check the ohm value shown on the cable tag as soon as you receive the cable. Write the value in the space provided on the warranty card.
 ► Measure the ohm reading of the cable and record the results in the space provided on the warranty card.
 ► Lay the cable out and secure it so that it is ready to be embedded (under concrete, asphalt or pavers) and then measure the cable’s ohm reading. Record this value in the space provided on the warranty card.
 ► Apply the top layer (concrete, asphalt or pavers) and measure the ohm reading. Record the results in the space provided on the warranty card.
     Cable Installation Tips
 ► Always maintain proper cable spacing. (Cables should be spaced no less than 2 inches apart (center-to-center) and no more than 4 inches, center to center. Minimum spacing is 2 inches. Maximum cable spacing is 4 inches.)
 ► Never allow the cables to cross or touch each other. (Keep a cable spacing of at least 2 inches.)
 ► Never cut the heating cable.
 ► In concrete and asphalt applications, the heating cable should be 2 inches from the finished surface. (The heating cable should never be resting on the ground prior to the pour.)
 ► DO NOT run heating cable through an expansion joint. (Make sure the joint is tooled or cut no deeper than 1¼-inches. The cable must be ¾ to 1-inch below the bottom of the joint.)
 ► Do not flex or strain the heat cable splice by pulling on the cable. Be sure to embed all of the cable, including the entire splice and 6-inches of cold lead.
 ► Do not kink or bend the cable sharply. Doing so can cause the insulation to “bubble” and pull away from the cable.
 ► When installing under pavers, make certain that there is ½-inch of compacted paver sand or stone dust on top of the heating cables or mats. (Cables must be completely encased with no air gaps.)

Installation Training

Knowing that a radiant heating system is only as good as its installation, ProLine offers free installation training, conveniently available online as well as in person at our corporate headquarters. ProLine also provides free training at rep locations throughout the country. Special training sessions may also be set up at your convenience. Our personal instructors will cover all the necessary topics and answer any questions you may have to give you the knowledge and confidence necessary to install interior and exterior radiant heat systems. These courses will help you gain the confidence you need to install radiant heated driveways, heated floors and roof deicing systems.

Contact ProLine to learn more about our products and installation support, free training, and professional design and layout services.

Call ProLine today at (866.676.9276).