Category Archives: NEWS

NEWS

Protect Roofs and Pedestrians

With winter fast approaching, home and business owners alike are checking the conditions of their roofs and taking steps to prepare for the impending snow and ice storms. Clearing gutters and checking the condition of shingles and flashing every fall is crucial for proper roof maintenance.

While some property owners install ice guards to prevent large slabs of ice from falling and injuring pedestrians or damaging vehicles, many opt for a more comprehensive approach when it comes to safety – and roof maintenance. 

Roofs are typically designed to withstand significant weight loads, so the volume of snow on a roof is usually not an issue. (Roofs are typically designed to withstand a snow load of 30 pounds per square foot, depending on your location and elevation). Radiant roof heating systems aren’t typically used to keep entire roofs free of snow; rather, the de-icing systems are designed to enhance safety and prolong the lifespan of a roof by keeping specific areas free of snow and ice. In general, de-icing systems are installed to prevent problems by facilitating steady runoff and eliminating any troublesome areas where ice often accumulates.

Icicles over a home's entryway

Keeping roof edges clear of snow and ice helps to ensure safety for pedestrian traffic, but perhaps the single most important function of a roof heating system is to prevent ice dams from forming. In this regard, a roof de-icing system can be a real money saver.

Ice dams are the most prominent culprits when it comes to roof damage and expensive water damage inside the home. If an attic isn’t properly insulated, warm air can escape from the home into the attic. There, the warm air rises and slowly warms the roof. The underlying layer of snow on the roof then begins to melt. It trickles down to the roof eave, but because the overhanging eaves aren’t heated by the attic air, the water tends to re-freeze. As this process repeats, eventually a ridge of ice forms on the eave. That ridge grows and gets to a point where water begins to pool behind the ridge. This is where the real trouble starts.

As water pools behind the ice dam, the water can seep into every tiny nook and crevice in the roof. When the water refreezes at night, it expands, and over time, those tiny cracks in the shingles and roofing grow. It’s a slow process, but eventually those cracks can turn into large cracks that allow water to seep into the home.

Perhaps the most affordable way to prevent ice dams from forming is to install self-regulating heat trace cable. ProLine’s cable is an industry leader, and can be easily installed along roof eaves, valleys, and in roof gutters. Using cable clips, the heat cable is installed in a repeating V pattern along the eave, which provides channels for the runoff to reach the gutter. This system is easy to customize, and is the most popular de-icing solution.

Entire roof eaves can also be heated. ProLine’s low-voltage STEP® roof heating system is often used to keep roof valleys, eaves, and other areas completely free of snow and ice. The system features thin, self-regulating heating panels that are installed neatly under shingles or metal roofs. Transformers are used to step down the high voltage to low voltage (60 V or less) while controlling specific sections of the roof de-icing system.

Low-voltage roof heating systems
The low-voltage STEP roof de-icing system is ideal for keeping roof valleys and eaves completely free of snow and ice.

The flexible heating element is polypropylene fused during fabrication to achieve water proofing and protection from alkaline or salt damage. This versatile system can be used to heat just about any type of roofing material. The heating element is available in widths of 3, 6, 9 or 12 inches. The low-voltage element is easy to install and can be cut to size on the job site. It can be nailed or stapled through, making installation quicker and easier than other traditional roof heating systems. Because the heating element is self-regulating, when the ambient temperature rises, the electrical resistance increases and the consumption of electricity decreases. This prevents the element from overheating and ensures energy-efficient operation.

ProLine is a leading provider of trusted roof de-icing systems. Self-regulating heat trace cable is also used for pipe trace solutions, so whatever your needs, contact ProLine today to find the ideal system for your needs.

In addition to industry-leading radiant heat solutions, ProLine also includes comprehensive customer support services, ranging from free installation training and system design/layout, to real-time technical support for installers. ProLine’s professional team of radiant heat system designers, trainers, and technical support staff are on hand now to assist you. Call 866-676-9276 today.

ProLine offers a wide variety of industry-leading roof heating products and de-icing solutions. For more information about ProLine’s self-regulating heat cable and other roof heating systems, contact a radiant heat professional today. Call 866-676-9276 for more information.

NEWS

Happy Veterans Day

To all the men and women who have served in our country’s armed forces, WE THANK YOU!

Here at ProLine, we stand united to salute our veterans, and publicly give thanks for your dedication, commitment, and sacrifice. It is because of your service that we enjoy the freedoms and blessings of living in this great land.

We also recognize that you continue to serve this country through your experience and example. Local communities benefit because of the character and leadership of our veterans. The devotion you have shown to this country serves as an example to all of us, and will forever keep us mindful of our freedoms.

We are also proud and honored that so many of our customers, and others in the ProLine family, have served within various branches of the U.S. military. It is our privilege to serve you with the same commitment, integrity, and devotion as shown by this nation’s veterans.

We look forward to the future. We are grateful for your service, and know that together, we can continue our pursuit of happiness in a free and secure country in which we are proud to raise our children.

Happy Veterans Day, 2024!

With gratitude,

The ProLine family

House with American Flag
NEWS

ProLine Wholesale Radiant Heat Solutions

As the benefits of radiant heat become more well known, the demand for efficient radiant heating systems continues to skyrocket. Many of today’s modern homes tout radiant heated floors, and homeowners in cold weather climates are installing heated driveways and custom roof de-icing solutions. Given the characteristics of radiant heat, it’s no surprise that consumers throughout Northern America are choosing clean radiant heat for their heating and snow melting needs.

With the ongoing healthy housing market, and increase in demand for radiant heat installations, construction professionals are eager to find wholesale radiant heat providers that make the purchase and installation process easy.

Unlike other wholesale providers, ProLine Radiant not only offers significant discounts on premier quality products, but includes comprehensive customer support services, ranging from free installation training and system design/layout, technical support for installers. Contractors also know that whatever radiant heat solution is needed, ProLine has the bases covered.

A radiant snow melting system at an outdoor.
A snow melting system in action at an outdoor mall.

Building professionals don’t have to be radiant heat experts to offer heated floor, driveway, or roof de-icing solutions to their customers. ProLine’s expertise and support personnel help to ensure a successful experience for the installer and the home or business owner. ProLine managers, trainers, electrical experts, and system designers walk their customers through every step of the way during the installation process. The professional AutoCAD schematic provides installers with a detailed system design/layout that addresses all the electrical needs and layout details of the project. The professional layout is also coupled with ProLine’s industry-leading installation training and tech support services. Knowing that ProLine offers a wide variety of best-in-class radiant heat solutions, backed by premier customer support services give contractors the confidence and peace of mind

Contractors rely on ProLine for a wide variety of snow and ice melting applications. ProLine snow melting systems are among the best in their class, and the systems are easy to customize, making them ideal to homeowners with a variety of needs. ProLine offers professional builders a host of radiant heat solutions. Some of these solutions include:

Roof De-icing Options

ProLine roof de-icing solutions range from custom self-regulating heat cable applications to the industry-leading low-voltage de-icing system. Heated aluminum panels and other options are also available. While the low-voltage system is the most popular and ideal for keeping entire roof eaves, valleys, and other areas free of snow and ice, self-regulating heat cable is perhaps the most in-demand roof heating product. The cable can be easily routed where needed, and these systems are also the most affordable.

Snow Melting System Options

Electric snow melting systems can tailored to meet the specific snow melting and budget needs of home and business owners. The systems can be installed to heat driveways, sidewalks, steps, ramps, loading docks, and so much more.

Cambridge paver heated driveway.
A radiant snow melting system installed for a heated paver driveway.

Homeowners particularly appreciate the custom options when it comes to heating their driveways. The systems can be installed to heat entire driveways, or two 24-inch-wide heated tire tracks can be installed. This is an affordable yet highly effective option. Or, just portions of the driveway can be heated. Heat cable can be installed to heat virtually any size or shape of area, so consumers can simply install a snow melting system on a “problem” incline, or area(s) where ice typically forms.

Floor Heating Options

ProLine also offers a wide range of floor heating options. The systems can be used to heat virtually all types of flooring, from vinyl and hardwood to ceramic tile and stone. The floor heating elements include systems with thin heat cable as well as neat paper-thin sheets and low-voltage panels. Call a ProLine representative today to learn more about the many floor heating options that are available.

ProLine works with building professionals, and distributes its products through wholesalers, so the prices are significantly discounted. The wholesale pricing is backed by unprecedented customer support services.

ProLine Radiant was created to match wholesale customers to the best radiant heat products and prices available while offering unprecedented customer services. As a leading provider of radiant snow melting, roof de-icing, and floor heating solutions, ProLine constantly searches for and produces the latest radiant heat technology to provide customers with outstanding quality solutions, unparalleled service, convenience, and preferred pricing.

For more information about radiant snow melting systems, roof de-icing and heat trace solutions, or floor heating systems, call a friendly ProLine representative today, at 866-676-9276.

NEWS

Roof Heating Systems

What are the Best Roof De-icing Options?

When it comes to protecting roofs (and pedestrians), there are several roof de-icing options available from ProLine. Customers can heat entire roofs, roof eaves, or simply keep roof valleys and gutters free from snow and ice.

ProLine roof heating systems can be fully automated, and they’re not difficult to install. The systems range from individual lengths of self-regulating heat cable to heated aluminum panels and thin, low-voltage heating panels that can be installed discreetly under the roof shingles.

Typical automated roof heating systems utilize a main snow/ice sensor that activates the de-icing system when moisture is detected and the temperature is below the adjustable setpoint. This results in a very cost-effective solution for heating large areas of the roof. ProLine’s master control unit is the industry’s premier control unit, and is ideally suited for virtually all types of residential and commercial applications.

Outdoor temperature sensors can be used on roofs and in roof gutters. Moisture sensors and wire sensors are normally fitted inside gutters where the melted runoff collects. The number and placement of these sensors depends on the size and nature of each individual roof de-icing system.

The Most Popular Options

The two most common roof de-icing options are ProLine’s low-voltage heating panels, and self-regulating heat cables. Both systems have proven extremely reliable and effective. The ideal system for your customers’ installation depends on their specific needs.

Low-voltage roof heating panels.
ProLine’s low-voltage roof heating panels being installed.

ProLine’s low-voltage roof de-icing system is extremely popular among professional roofers. This system features thin (only 3/64-inch thick), flexible polymer heating panels that are polypropylene fused during fabrication for added protection from alkaline, UV rays and salt. The panels are designed to be installed under the shingles or roofing material. (This system is also safe to heat metal roofs.)

Another advantage of the low-voltage panels is that they are self-regulating, so the heating element efficiently increases the heat output as the outside temperature falls and decreases the heat output as the temperature rises. The heating element can also be nailed or stapled through, and cut on site. (However, take care to avoid nailing through the bus braids at the edges of the heating element.) Low-voltage panels are available in widths of 3, 9, and 12-inches.

The low-voltage system includes an activation device (snow sensor) and a step-down transformer. Each transformer is responsible for a specific section of the de-icing system, and can step down from high voltage to low voltage (60V or less). It is the source for monitoring the power and output to the system heating element to ensure safe, accurate performance. ProLine’s low-voltage system is one of the most advanced and efficient roof heating systems on the market today.

ProLine self-regulating heat cable is the most affordable option for home and business owners who are looking to eliminate ice dams and trouble spots on their roof. Self-regulating roof and gutter heating cable features advanced technology that results in highly effective, energy efficient operation. The irradiated conductive core increases its heat output as the temperature falls, and decreases its output when the temperature rises. The heat cable’s self-regulating core ensures that the cable will also not overheat or burnout if the cable is overlapped or touching. The durable heat cable can be easily installed along roof edges and in gutters and downspouts to facilitate runoff.

Self-regulating heat cable installed along roof eave.
Self-regulating heat cable installed along the roof eave.

By zigzagging the heat cable along the roof eaves, channels are provided for runoff so that no ice dams form. The cable is also commonly installed in roof valleys as well as specific areas that are typically problem spots during the winter. Self-regulating heat cable can be easily installed to heat specific areas, and the systems are very affordable.

A great advantage of working with ProLine is that customers not only receive radiant heat solutions at wholesale prices, but that the systems are backed by preeminent customer support services. ProLine includes free installation training, professional system design, and technical support for installers.

These services have established ProLine as an industry leader, and are responsible for a great deal of repeat business from contractors and professional builders. Contractors know that when they install ProLine radiant heat solutions, they’ll receive dedicated, personal support throughout the installation process.

ProLine offers a wide variety of industry-leading roof heating products and de-icing solutions. For more information about ProLine’s self-regulating heat cable and other roof heating systems, contact a radiant heat professional today. Call 866-676-9276 today.

NEWS

Radiant Snow Melting Systems

What are the Options for Installing a Driveway Heating System?

When it comes to radiant heat installations, there are many custom options that are available to your customers. While many homeowners may express a desire to have a radiant heated driveway, many assume that the systems are financially out of reach, and leave it at that. Intimidated by the imagined cost, they abandon any thoughts of learning more about the systems; and instead, they upgrade their old plastic snow shovel with a new, poly blade shovel with double ergonomic grip.

What many potential customers don’t realize is that radiant snow melting systems can be easily customized to accommodate everything from performance and layout to the customers’ budget. Instead of being discouraged by the perceived cost of an automated snow melting system, homeowners can work with you (and ProLine), and be matched with the system that is ideal for their needs.

Radiant snow melting systems can be installed in all the common mediums, including concrete, asphalt, and pavers. (A heat cable with a special outer jacket is available for hot asphalt installations.) Existing driveways can even be retrofitted with a radiant heat system.

Heated paver walkway with cutaway showing heat cable and paver sand.

So, while homeowners dream about having an automated heated driveway, they don’t have to give up on that dream because of preconceived notions regarding cost. Driveway heating systems can be easily customized according to the customer’s budget needs.

Some of the general layout options for driveway heating systems are listed below:

Heat entire areas – Many homeowners prefer heating the entire driveway. Heat cable can be installed to keep driveways, sidewalks, steps, ramps and other outdoor areas completely free of snow and ice. Radiant snow melting systems can be tailored to meet the customer’s specific demands, and are designed to be installed in a wide variety of applications, including concrete, asphalt, and pavers.

Heat only the trafficked areas – Another popular option for homeowners is to install radiant heat only in the commonly trafficked areas. For example, rather than heating the entire driveway, two 24-inch-wide tire tracks can be installed, or an 8-foot strip in the middle of the driveway can be heated. Heated tire tracks are especially popular for homeowners looking to heat a long driveway, have power restrictions, or are looking to keep within a tight budget. These options can save customers installation costs as well as operational costs because less surface area is being heated.

Heat only small, select areas – Radiant heat systems are easy to customize, and can be installed to heat just about any layout. Small footpaths can be heated as well as odd shaped areas. Heating cable can be installed to heat disability ramps, outdoor steps, patios, sidewalks, and even dog kennels, dog runs, and more. The applications are virtually limitless. In addition to electric radiant heat systems, ProLine also offers customers hydronic radiant heat solutions. 

Heated tire tracks in driveway
Heated tire tracks, installed in a residential driveway in Canada.

A great advantage of working with ProLine is that customers not only receive radiant heat solutions at wholesale prices, but that the systems are backed by preeminent customer support services. ProLine includes free installation training, professional system design, and technical support for installers.

These services have helped to establish ProLine as an industry leader, and resulted in so much repeat business from contractors and professional builders throughout the country. When contractors install ProLine radiant heat solutions, they know that they’ll receive dedicated, personal support throughout the installation process.

In addition to heated driveways and snow melting systems, ProLine also offers a variety of industry-leading roof de-icing, floor heating, and pipe trace products and solutions. For more information about ProLine’s radiant heat solutions and services, contact a radiant heat professional at 866-676-9276 today.

NEWS

Roof De-icing

ProLine Self-regulating Heat Trace Cable

In recent years, ProLine Radiant has nearly doubled its production of heat trace cable. In addition to the track record and performance capabilities of the heat cable, building professionals have come to appreciate the ease of working with ProLine’s professional team of radiant heat system designers, trainers, and technical support staff. With each system, customers are able to rely on a team of experts who stand beside their customers throughout the installation process

ProLine’s versatile heat trace cable has proven to be ideal for a variety of roof de-icing applications (as well as pipe freeze prevention systems). Because of its ease of installation, effectiveness, and affordability, self-regulating heat trace cable systems have been a favorite among home and business owners. The heat trace systems can prevent a host of roof de-icing problems. While these de-icing systems don’t usually keep entire eaves free of snow and ice, they successfully provide channels for the runoff, thereby effectively eliminating ice dams, and allowing a path for the water to reach the roof gutters.

For more details about ice dams, visit ProLine’s roof de-icing web page that explains how ice dams are formed. Understanding how ice dams form helps homeowners know what steps to take to minimize or eliminate the factors that contribute to their development. Preventing problems from occurring is a whole lot easier and more affordable than dealing with the aftermath of a problem (such as structural or water damage).

Heated roof edges with self-regulating heat cable.
Self-regulating heat cable installed along roof edges.

A few years after I moved into my first home, I noticed one area on my roof where ice dams tended to develop. I know how destructive roof ice dams can be. They don’t look too threatening along the roof eaves, but underneath that pretty white snow lurks a quiet, surprisingly destructive force.

As warm air escapes from the home into a poorly insulated attic, it rises and gradually begins to warm the roof itself. Slowly, the underlying snow begins to melt. The water trickles down the roof toward the gutters. But, because the warm air doesn’t reach the roof eave, the roof is much colder, especially at night. When the runoff reaches the eaves, it eventually refreezes. When this process repeats, a wall of ice forms, and water begins to pool behind the “dam”. That water can seep into the tiniest cracks and imperfections on the roof. At night, when the water behind the ice dam refreezes, it expands. This can affect the existing anomalies and increase the size of the imperfections. The repeated freeze/thaw process can eventually threaten the integrity of the roof and shingles.

Needless to say, I didn’t want to deal with roof or water damage, so I looked into a way where I could eliminate the problem without spending a lot of money. Self-regulating heat cable was the answer.

ProLine system designers created the ideal solution for me. It was simple, easy to install, and very effective. The heat cable eliminated the possibility of ice dams, so now I don’t have to worry about any issues in those FORMER trouble spots.

Self-regulating heat cable installed along roof eave.
Self-regulating heat cable installed along roof eaves to prevent ice dams.

The self-regulating cable’s outer jacket features UV-stabilized thermoplastic elastomer to protect the irradiated conductive core. The self-regulating property allows the conductive core to increase heat output as the temperature falls and decrease output when the temperature rises. This feature ensures energy-efficient operation, and prevents the cable from overheating, even if the cables touch.

ProLine offers free installation training, system design, and technical support for installers. This is rare for a wholesale provider to offer these services. But that’s why contractors and professional builders repeated use ProLine. Not only are they assured of received top quality products at wholesale prices, but they receive the support they need to ensure their success, and that their customers are satisfied.

For more information

ProLine offers a variety of industry-leading roof de-icing products and solutions. For more information about ProLine’s self-regulating heat cable, contact a roof heating / pipe trace professional today. Call 866-676-9276 today.

NEWS

ProLine Simplifies Life for Construction Professionals

Wholesale Pricing and Unmatched Support Services Simplify Radiant Heat Installations for Contractors

When I first learned about ProLine and their wholesale pricing discounts, I figured I’d be an idiot if I didn’t check out their radiant heating products. Sure, the prices of their products were tempting, but before I jumped on the bandwagon, I did my homework. I decided to ask around and learn more about the quality of their products.

After some investigating, I was pleasantly surprised to learn that the quality of ProLine’s self-regulating roof de-icing cable, driveway snow melting cable, and system components was pretty much equal to those of the industry’s top, established manufacturers. In some cases, the components were exactly the same, and in other cases, the argument could be made that ProLine’s quality was even better than that of the industry heavyweights. Could it be that the old guard had become a little complacent? Who knows what the reason is, but it’s apparent that just over a decade ago, ProLine burst onto the scene with a vengeance. Fortunately, their arrival has benefitted contractors and construction professionals throughout Northern America.

ProLine works with contractors and building professionals, but distributes through wholesalers, so the prices are significantly discounted. The wholesale pricing was a key strategy that allowed ProLine to make its introductory splash in the industry, but the company rounded out its business plan with its commitment to offering top-quality products, backed by unprecedented customer support services.

Radiant heat installation support
ProLine services include free installation training, technical support, and system design.

Who Does That?

Personal end-user customer services from wholesale suppliers were virtually unheard of back in the day, but ProLine has changed the game. The typical business model for wholesalers is one that omits the need to accommodate any customer service needs of the end user. But ProLine flipped that rule upside down. ProLine includes services such as professional system design, free installation training, and technical support. By offering those services, ProLine changed the wholesale scene, and the company continues to take the lead when it comes to customer service. By consistently providing the best quality products, backed by comprehensive customer support services, ProLine has established itself as an industry leader, and a provider upon which construction professionals can rely.

Maintain proper cable spacing
Heating cable being properly spaced and secured to remesh prior to pouring the concrete for a heated driveway.

ProLine snow melting systems feature durable heat cable off the spool or in mats. The cable off the spool is available for installations with 3- and 4-inch spacing (and custom spacing upon request) to create the ideal custom wattage per square foot for the customer. The snow melting heating mats feature cable that is pre-spaced for accurate spacing and fast, easy installation.

Heated driveways are easy to customize and install. ProLine systems have been installed to keep public transportation hubs clear of snow and ice, as well as to heat driveways, ramps, outdoor steps, parking areas, and more.

ProLine is also one of the largest suppliers of self-regulating heat cable. Self-regulating heat cable is typically used for roof de-icing applications as well as pipe trace free prevention systems. Several types of cable are available for a wide variety of de-icing needs. A thin, low-voltage heating panel that can be installed under roof shingles is also available. The popular system is often used to keep entire roof eaves and valleys free from snow and ice.

Low-voltage roof heating element
Low-voltage heating element for roof de-icing applications.

In addition to its many custom outdoor applications, ProLine is also a popular supplier of radiant floor heating systems. A variety of heating elements and system components are available. ProLine floor heating systems range from thin heat cable to paper-thin “film” heating mats that can be installed directly under floating floors, without the need for adhesives or mortar. To learn more about ProLine Radiant’s floor heating options, contact a radiant heat expert today, at 866-676-9276.

NEWS

Designing the Optimum Radiant Heat Solution

For contractors and construction professionals new to radiant heat system installations, the thought of installing a heated driveway, heated floors, or a roof de-icing system can be daunting. While the financial benefits may be enticing, taking on something new can pose challenges. Where does one begin? What are the preinstallation steps? What’s the layout?

ProLine leads the wholesale supplier business by providing the services that are vital for building professionals. In fact, ProLine takes care of the details and legwork when it comes to radiant heat installations, so contractors are free to deal with their overall management of their projects.

One of the key services provided is ProLine’s system design services. These detailed system layouts not only show the placement of all the system components, but also include all of the electrical information, including: proper load calculations, breaker sizes, number of breakers, etc. Your electrician will have all the information needed at his/her fingertips.

Every ProLine snow melting system is designed to meet the specific demands of the customer, and to ensure optimum system performance. Factors taken into consideration include the project’s location, elevation and average winter conditions, as well as the power requirements and availability, and of course, the customer’s budget.

Sample layout of a radiant floor heating system
Example of a radiant floor heating system layout.

The system layout serves as the road map for installers. The AutoCAD® shows the entire detailed layout of the heating cable. It shows where to begin laying the heating element out so that the cold leads can be conveniently connected to the control unit, and also the exact position of the activation device. To further simplify the installation process, installers also receive free installation training from ProLine. A radiant heat professional covers every aspect of the installation, which ultimately saves time and money in the long run.

Proper installation is the key to the successful performance of radiant snow melting, heat trace, and floor heating systems. Knowing this – and despite being a wholesale radiant heat provider – ProLine takes extra care in producing detailed system design/layout for each customer. Having a smart design and accurate layout of the system help to ensure a quick, efficient, installation, and frees up contractors so they can focus on what they do best. Having ProLine in your corner for radiant heat installations is a smart business move. The industry-leading design and support services offered by ProLine are virtually unheard of among wholesale providers.

Professional design and layout of radiant heated driveway
Example of radiant snow melting system AutoCAD.

Put the experience of ProLine to work for you by adding radiant heat installation to your service offerings. ProLine system designers are seasoned professionals who have designed systems for all types of residential and commercial snow melting projects, ranging from airports and commercial shopping centers to residential driveway, steps, ramps, and more. Trust ProLine with all your radiant heating needs.

ProLine Radiant is a leading wholesale provider of radiant heat solutions. For more information about radiant snow melting systems, roof de-icing and heat trace solutions, or floor heating systems, call a friendly ProLine representative today, at 866-676-9276.

NEWS

ProLine Snow Melting Systems

When it comes to offering snow melting system installations, professional builders won’t find a better partner to work with than ProLine Radiant. ProLine carries the highest quality radiant snow melting systems for commercial and residential applications. In addition to receiving proven products with wholesale pricing discounts, contractors also benefit from ProLine’s industry-leading customer support services.

ProLine’s team of radiant heat experts provides a range of support services, including free installation training, complete system design and layout, and technical support during the installation. Having a team of experts on hand during the installation gives contractors peace of mind, and helps to ensure timely, hassle-free installations. The end result is another satisfied customer. Knowing that ProLine has your back, from start to finish, is crucial for contractors who are busy multitasking, and coordinating an assortment of current and future projects.

ProLine’s comprehensive support services allow professional builders to offer – and complete – more projects. Many ProLine customers are bolstering their bottom line by offering radiant heat installations to business owners and municipalities.

Snow melting system installed in ramp to parking structure.
A radiant snow melting system installed in ramps to a large commercial parking structure.

During the winter months, business owners face the challenge of keeping sidewalks, parking areas, and entryways safe for their customers. While it’s been common practice to hire snow removal services and task employees to salt and shovel the walks, keeping areas ice-free throughout the work day is never a given. Steps and walkways have to be continuously monitored, and employees must consistently step away from their typical daily responsibilities to maintain walkways and areas to ensure the safety of the customers.

For business owners, automated snow melting systems provide the ideal solution. The installation of an automated snowmelt system helps to ensure that steps, walkways, ramps, and other areas remain clear of snow and ice throughout the day and night. The systems are triggered by weather events; however, these fully automated systems can also be activated manually.

ProLine snow melting systems consist of premier heat cable that is available pre-spaced in mats or in individual lengths off the spool. The systems also feature activation devices that detect temperature as well as precipitation. These sensors can be mounted in the pavement, or near the roofline of any home or business structure. When the snow sensor detects moisture, and the temperature is below the adjustable set point (typically set at 38 F or 39 F), a signal is then sent to the controller, and then power is sent to the embedded heat cable (or other heating element). The area quickly begins to warm in order to prevent snow from building up.

Automated snow melting systems can be installed in a wide variety of applications and custom layouts. Systems are typically installed in concrete, asphalt, and under pavers. Areas can also be retrofitted with radiant heat.

Asphalt driveway being retrofitted with radiant heat.
A residential asphalt driveway being retrofitted with a radiant snow melting system.

To heat asphalt, heating cable is laid out over the area to be warmed, and then a new layer of asphalt is then applied. To heat existing concrete, saw-cut technology is used. Small channels are cut into the concrete, and the heat cable is then placed in the channels. Once the cable is installed and wired, a topcoat of epoxy is applied to seal the embedded cable. Oftentimes, a sand broadcast is then sprinkled over the epoxy (prior to curing) to provide additional traction to increase the safety of the newly heating area.

ProLine snow melting systems are easy to customize, both in terms of layout and budget. If you have customers with unique layout issues, and/or a seemingly limited budget, ProLine system designers can work with you to provide the ideal snow melting solution. A variety of options are available. Call a radiant heat expert at ProLine today to learn more about how we can provide the ideal system for you and your customer(s).

ProLine Radiant is a leading wholesale provider of radiant heat solutions. For more information about radiant snow melting systems, roof de-icing and heat trace solutions, or floor heating systems, call a friendly ProLine representative today, at 866-676-9276.

NEWS

ProLine Offers New Controller

ProLine Adds Advanced IoT Controller to its Growing List of Product Offerings

Professional builders throughout North America have come to rely on ProLine Radiant for all their radiant snow melting and heat trace needs. Unlike other wholesale providers, ProLine not only offers a wide selection of industry-leading products, but backs those products with unmatched customer support services. ProLine’s customer services include free installation training, technical support, and comprehensive system design and layout.

As an established leader, ProLine constantly develops and researches the latest technologies and products. Consistently offering customers a large selection of the most proven and advanced products, coupled with industry-leading services is why ProLine is the trusted wholesale provider of radiant snow melting, home heating, and roof de-icing systems.

In keeping with ProLine’s commitment to offer its customers a large selection of the industry’s latest premium quality products, ProLine recently added the EcoTrace IC controller to its line of snow melting and de-icing system controls. The advanced device is a single-circuit IoT heat trace controller for use in snow melting, freeze protection and temperature maintenance applications.

What is IoT?

The term “IoT” refers to the Internet of Things. This new technology happens to be one of the most important advancements of this century. The Internet of Things (IoT) technology allows us to connect everyday objects such as cars, kitchen appliances, roofs, and other inanimate objects to the Internet via embedded devices. The devices (or sensors) can be used to measure performance or environmental parameters. The data is then transmitted through a communications network, making it possible to have seamless communication between people, processes, and things. The technology has proven to be highly beneficial and can be used to optimize the efficiency and performance of a variety of objects.

EcoTrace IC Controller for snow melting and heat trace applications.
The advanced “smart” controller for snow melting and heat trace applications.

How does the EcoTrace IC Controller Use “Iot” Technology

The EcoTrace IC controller allows the user to choose from a selection of weather-based control algorithms, which include, roof de-icing, gutter or pipe heat tracing, and driveway snow melting systems. The smart controller uses its proprietary algorithms to process weather data and then adjusts the system’s power output according to the conditions brought on by the weather event. In addition to activating the heating system, the controller’s “smart” snow melting capability includes optional preheating, the ability to ignore light storms, and dynamic heating after the storm, all to improve overall system performance and reduce energy use and operating cost.

Pipe Heat Trace

For pipe trace applications, the EcoTrace IC controller can be used for efficient freeze protection and temperature maintenance. A temperature sensor can be connected, whereby ambient or pipe sensing modes can be used to prevent pipes from freezing. Hybrid freeze protection combines weather forecast data with the local sensor data to control freeze protection systems up to 40 percent more efficiently. The temperature sensor can also be used for process temperature maintenance, grease waste lines, and hot water maintenance lines (HWM).  

Heat trace failures can result in small leaks, pipes that freeze and rupture, and damage to critical equipment. With the comprehensive 24/7 system monitoring and automated fault notification, you can rest easy knowing your systems are working. The device’s cloud platform allows you to manage all of your heat tracing systems in one place, even if you are somewhere else.

Connect from Anywhere

The advanced IoT controller connects to the Frio Cloud via Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or Cellular. When connected to the Cloud, the controller uploads system status and receives operational commands. Multiple devices can be joined together in the Cloud platform, which allows the user to have centralized control of multiple heat tracing systems. When accessed via the Cloud, the user can check status, activate the system, or run a diagnostic test. There’s no longer any need to physically check the heat trace control system.

Technical Details

A controller with Modbus and BACnet connectivity is available, as well as one without, which accepts a thermistor only. Both controller models support Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections. The devices are designed to use 802.11n Wi-Fi operating in the 2.4GHz band or the 5GHz band. Both units are compatible with older 2.4GHz 802.11b, 802.11g, and 802.11a networks. The ethernet connection supports 10Mbps and 100Mbps operation. See the user manual for firewall information.

The controller can drive up to a 30A resistive load to control electric heat trace systems operating between 110 VAC and 277 VAC. The IC (Internet Controller) comes in an outdoor-rated enclosure, tested to IP67 standard.

The controller also allows for the user to manually activate the device for a set period of time. Manual override can be set from the device’s Cloud platform, or through Modbus for BMS connected systems.

ProLine Radiant is a leading wholesale provider of radiant heat solutions. For more information about radiant snow melting systems, roof de-icing and heat trace solutions, or floor heating systems, call a friendly ProLine representative today, at 866-676-9276.