The automatic activation devices (sensors) include aerial-mounted or pavement-mounted snow switches. These sensors detect temperatures and precipitation, activating the system only when needed. When moisture is present and the temperature is below the set point (39°F.), the sensor signals the contactor panel, which then sends power to the heating element. Both aerial and pavement-mount sensors feature adjustable temperature set points.

The Temperature and pressure relief valve on all water heaters automatically opens when they sense an excessive amount of pressure or heat in the water heater tank, alleviating any damage they might have caused. Water will leak through the valve and discharge tube after all excess air escapes from the tank.

Radiant heat is commonly used for driveway heating, floor heating, and roof de-icing. The technology behind radiant heat dates back to 5,000 B.C. China, and it was also widely used by the ancient Romans. Of course, radiant heating methods have improved dramatically since then, but the principle of efficient radiant heat remains the same. Today, radiant snow melting systems are nearing performance perfection.

Hydronic snow melt system design

Because Warmzone works with the top radiant heat manufacturers, we are able to offer a wide selection of products without bias towards any one system. This, coupled with unmatched customer service, is why building professionals consider Warmzone as a trusted partner, and a leading consumer and contractor advocate. The experienced professionals at Warmzone will identify the benefits and challenges of your project and recommend the system and layout that is best suited for the job. A detailed CAD drawing is provided with each custom radiant heating system that is customized for you. Check out some of Warmzone's residential and commercial snowmelt projects.

Another function of the temperature and pressure relief valve is to release water from the tank if it gets too hot. Thermostats and temperature controls can go out in time. When the water in our hot water tank gets to a dangerous level, we rely on the pressure relief valve to expel it from the tank and through the discharge tube before it can give us 3rd-degree burns.

Snow melt system controls

The temperature and pressure release valve protect us when any components on the water heater go out. It’s important to remember that a pressure valve is made to discharge water from the tank if there are any issues. Figuring out if it’s leaking or not can be confusing.

It doesn’t matter where the expansion tank is installed, as long as the water has somewhere to go when the thermal expansion occurs. Call Hackler Plumbing today if you think you require an expansion tank installation. We are your local McKinney plumbing company serving the surrounding Metroplex area and are here to fix all water heater-related problems and can perform tankless water complete installations.

For more information about automated, electric or hydronic heated snow melting systems, call and speak with a friendly Warmzone representative today at 888-488-9276.

Snow melt system for roof

The temperature and pressure relief valve is a safety feature we need to work on any water heater. Many components work together on a water heater so that our water is at the perfect temperature and comes out with just the right amount of pressure.

Preventive maintenance is the best way to care for a water heater. These are the best two ways to check and maintain your temperature and pressure relief valve.

Let’s say we change the temperature and pressure valve and it continues to leak after replacement. Now we know there is a more serious problem with our water heater and we wasted all that time and money.

The temperature and pressure relief valve (sometimes called a tpr valve or tp valve) helps regulate the pressure and temperature of the water inside the tank. Both can be extremely dangerous if too high.

Modern radiant heat systems utilize one of two methods to heat driveways, floors and roofs: electric or hydronic. Both radiant heat technologies require heating elements to be embedded under the surface of the area to be heated. ClearZone™ electric driveway heating systems utilize durable heating cable, while hydronic snow melting systems utilize a network of flexible PEX tubing. Both heated driveway systems utilize either an aerial or pavement mounted sensor that automatically activates the system when precipitation is detected and temperatures are below a set point (usually 39° Fahrenheit).

Snow meltingsystemsfor concrete slabs

Water expands when it gets heated. Our water heater tank and plumbing lines are a “closed” system if a check valve or pressure regulator is on the water supply for the house.

Snow melt system for driveways

There is a lot more to a water heater than meets the eye. One of the most common issues inside a water heater tank is thermal expansion. The professionals at Hackler Plumbing can tell if thermal expansion is occurring in your system and what you can do to solve the problem.

The best way to prevent a faulty temperature and pressure relief valve is to maintain it regularly. The pressure relief valve must work right as it is the most crucial safety feature on the water heater.

Residential and commercial property owners are installing radiant heated driveways and snow melting systems at increasing rates nowadays as the affordability and advantages of automated electric snowmelt systems become more well known. Automated snow melting systems from Warmzone are energy-efficient, maintenance free and remarkably effective.

Since both radiant heat systems have specific features and benefits, it is important for you to talk with an unbiased radiant heating expert to learn which system would be best suited for your home or business. In recent years, electric radiant heating systems have gained popularity because of their price, efficient operation and ease of installation. While hydronic heating systems may boast a lower operating cost, the uncertain future of non-renewable fossil fuels and local rates are issues that should be addressed prior to making any purchase.

Electric snow melt system

Electric radiant heat systems are maintenance free, operate silently, and feature rapid response times to efficiently heat surfaces quicker than hydronic heating systems. Hydronic snowmelt systems are usually a little more expensive to purchase and install; however, the operational costs can sometimes be lower, depending on the local fuel and utility rates.

In rare cases, water heaters can shoot into the air like a missile without a properly functioning pressure relief valve.

They can determine whether or not you have a check valve or pressure regulator installed and help solve your temperature and pressure relief valve problem. They will even be able to install an expansion tank if they discover you do have a closed system.

If you have questions about whether your temperature and pressure relief valve is leaking or if other problems are causing it to release water, call Hackler Plumbing today. Our professionals will be able to give you the answers you need after a thorough investigation of your water heater temperature and pressure relief valve.

It’s a good idea to call Hackler Plumbing the moment we notice the tp valve or discharge tube dripping to be sure the problem isn’t the valve itself.

Adding an expansion tank to a closed system can completely stop a leaking T&P valve. If you’ve replaced your temperature and pressure relief valve, but it’s still leaking, one of our professionals at Hackler Plumbing will be happy to inspect your plumbing system.

Hydronic snow melt system

Electric snow melting systems utilize three components: the heat cable, contactor panel, and the snow sensor / activation device. The radiant heat systems that utilize an in-ground snow sensor feature a compact snowmelt controller, which is typically mounted on a wall in the garage. The advanced controllers offered by Warmzone are only 6-inches by 3.5-inches and feature an easy-to-use interface. Warmzone offers a manual timer in case you choose to pre-heat an area before a large storm to curb potentially high snow and ice accumulation, or melt snow or ice afterwards that has occurred as a result of wind (snow drift) or shade, etc.

Radiant heat system components and driveway heating systems are available from several vendors; however, it is important to consult with and buy from an established leader that provides COMPLETE radiant heat systems and services. In addition to providing you with the best valued solution, your provider should also design the system (complete with a detailed layout) so that you know all the specs and power requirements prior to any installation taking place. The top radiant heat system providers will also offer expert technical support before and during the installation process. As part of its industry leading customer service, Warmzone also includes free installation training for installers.

Hydronic systems utilize specially treated water that is heated and then circulated through a closed loop of tubing embedded in the driveway. The systems require a "mechanical room" that houses a boiler (water heater), pumps and manifold. The boiler heats the mixture of water and propylene glycol (anti-freeze) and then a series of pumps circulates the water through PEX tubing. The tubing is designed to resist corrosion and does not become soft at high operating temperatures or brittle at low outdoor temperatures. (Learn more about how hydronic radiant heating systems work.)

Commercial snow meltsystems

Waking up following a heavy winter storm and having to shovel the walks and driveway can present a daunting task in the cold, early mornings. But with an automated radiant heated snow melting system, you'll wake up to find your driveway and/or sidewalks completely clear of snow and ice. Radiant heat certainly can get your day off to a more relaxed start. Fully automated heated driveway systems utilize advanced components to detect weather conditions, so you don't have to worry about anything except setting the coffee timer.

The main job of a temperature and pressure relief valve is to leak. Diagnosing the temperature and pressure valve can be problematic for any DIYer.

When the water expands in any closed system, it will have nowhere to go. When the temperature builds up in the tank, so does the pressure. The temperature and pressure relief valve work to alleviate this excess build-up to keep our water heater from exploding.  In some cases, serious measures will need to be taken to handle the extra pressure caused by thermal expansion in a closed system.

NOTE: While installing electric radiant heating cable in your driveway is surprisingly simple, it is important that all the electrical connections to the control unit be performed by a qualified electrician. Call us today at 888-488-9276 for more information, or to discuss your snow melting project.

Installing a radiant heated driveway / snow melting system can benefit homeowners and businesses in many ways. Snowmelt systems eliminate the need for manual snow removal and the use of salt and harsh snow melting chemicals that cause environmental damage to the bordering landscape. The systems also enhance safety by keeping areas free of snow and ice 24/7. (For businesses, this is a particularly attractive feature.) Installing a radiant snow melting system can also add value to your property. In addition to raising the value of your home, the automated snowmelt system can also increase the lifespan of your driveway's concrete because there's no need for plows, shoveling or corrosive snowmelt chemicals. Radiant heat can also be instrumental in reducing the chances of spalling on concrete driveways.

Warmzone heated driveway systems are highly customizable and can be installed in almost any configuration and medium, including concrete, asphalt, under pavers, etc. The most popular time to install a radiant heated driveway system is during the new construction phase. However, existing driveways and walkways can also be retrofitted with radiant heat systems. Grooves are cut into concrete or asphalt, using saw-cut technology. Radiant heating cable is then placed in the grooves and sealed into the cement (or asphalt) using an epoxy topcoat. Weather permitting, there are no limitations as to when a snowmelt system can be installed. For more installation information, view our Installation Tips web pages.

Warmzone has a growing network of experienced contractors across the country who are ready and willing to help, wherever possible. Contact us, or call us toll free at 888-488-9276.