Depending on your application, a hydronic system may be more beneficial than an electric system. Generally, electric cable systems are more applicable in situations where only floor warming is desired or the area to be heated is relatively small.  Hydronic systems tend to be more desirable when primary heating is the goal and/or the area to be heated is relatively large. The electric draw of an electric cable system can be a limiting factor in designing a system if your electric service is not sized to accommodate it and the skyrocketing cost of electricity should be considered.

Another advantage to having a hydronic heating system is the ability to have a snow melt system. Heated driveway systems, also called "heated driveways", are a technological alternative to shoveling, salting, snow plowing, snow blowing and other snow removal methods.

With most heated driveway systems, tubing is run under the driveway (and walkways, patios and porch steps, too, if you like). Heated water is pumped through the tubing. The water in heated driveway systems is mixed with an anti-freeze (glycol). Heat radiates up from the tubing to the surface of your driveway, melting away snow and ice. Drains catch the water run-off produced by a heated driveway system, channeling the water away from your driveway, leaving your driveway snow and ice free all winter long.

For information about radiant heating systems please contact our experts at Schomberg Sheet Metal at 1.844.435.HEAT