Home Automation Creations recommends the HeatTrak Heated Snow Melting Mat as it’s the easiest mat to setup and allows you to connect several of them together to cover an entire walkway. (Note: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.)
If you’re looking to cut back on the amount of shoveling/snowblowing you have to do this winter, it’s hard to find a better product. The HeatTrak walkway mat runs about $125 for the standard 20″ x 30″unit on Amazon here.
You can link 5 mats together per power unit (sold separately – you can buy a power unit and mat together for $170), enough for almost all residential walkways.
More about snow melting mats
Snow melting mats are a practical and increasingly popular solution for managing snow and ice during winter months. Designed to be placed on walkways, driveways, stairs, and ramps, these mats use electric or hydronic heating elements to prevent snow accumulation and melt ice as it forms. Their benefits extend beyond convenience, offering improvements in safety, efficiency, and property maintenance.
One of the most significant advantages of snow melting mats is enhanced safety. Snow and ice are major causes of slips and falls, which can lead to serious injuries and liability concerns for homeowners and businesses alike. By keeping surfaces clear and dry, snow melting mats dramatically reduce the risk of accidents, making them especially valuable in high-traffic areas or locations used by elderly individuals and children.
Snow melting mats also save time and labor. Traditional snow removal requires repeated shoveling, plowing, or salting, often during harsh weather conditions. Mats operate automatically or with minimal activation, eliminating the need for constant manual effort. This convenience is particularly beneficial during heavy or frequent snowfall.
Additionally, these mats are environmentally friendly compared to chemical deicers. Salt and other chemicals can damage concrete, landscaping, and nearby water systems. Snow melting mats reduce or eliminate the need for such substances, helping to preserve infrastructure and the environment.
Finally, snow melting mats protect surfaces over time. Repeated freeze/thaw cycles and mechanical snow removal can crack concrete and asphalt. By preventing ice buildup, mats help extend the lifespan of walkways and driveways. Overall, snow melting mats offer a safe, efficient, and long term solution to winter weather challenges.