Ice and snow warning system, automatic control of heating cables

What is an ice and snow warning system?

An ice and snow detector is used to automatically control heating cables in areas where snow, ice or slippery conditions may cause problems.

The system usually consists of one or more sensors, together with a control unit that regulates the heating cables. The sensors detect the conditions in or around the surface to be protected and provide the control unit with information on when heating is required.

Unlike a simpler temperature control system, an ice and snow protection system can take into account both the cold and the presence of moisture. This makes it possible to control the heating cables according to actual requirements.

How automatic control of heating cables works

It is not just low temperatures that cause ice or snow to become a problem. Moisture also plays an important role.

An ice and snow warning system therefore uses sensors that detect the relevant conditions and relay the information to the control unit.

When the system detects conditions where there is a risk of ice or snow forming, the heating cables are activated. Once the need has passed, the heating can be switched off again.

In simple terms, the principle can be described as follows:

Temperature and humidity → sensors → control unit → heating cables → heating as required

This means that the heating cables do not need to be active throughout entire periods of low temperatures.

Where are ice and snow warnings used?

Ice and snow detection systems can be used in various parts of a property. The type of sensor and control system that is suitable depends, amongst other things, on the application and the nature of the installation.

Garage driveways

A sloping garage driveway can quickly become slippery in the event of snowfall, frost or changes in temperature.

With heating cables and an automatic control system, the heating can be activated when conditions pose a risk of snow or ice on the surface.

Ramps and loading bays

On ramps and loading bays, slippery conditions can cause problems for people, vehicles and day-to-day operations.

Automatic control makes it possible to use geothermal heating when it is needed, without keeping it running unnecessarily during cold but dry periods.

Stairs and walkways

Stairways, entrance areas and other walkways are places where ice can quickly build up, creating a slip hazard.

A demand-driven solution can help keep vulnerable areas free of ice and snow when weather conditions require it.

Gutters and downpipes

Heating cables are also used to prevent ice from forming in gutters and downpipes and to help drain away meltwater.

Here too, automatic control can be used to switch the heating on when conditions require it.

Roof drains and other exposed roof surfaces

Ice and snow can affect the flow of water from the roof. Heating cables can therefore be used, for example, at roof drains and other particularly vulnerable parts of the roof system.

Proper control ensures that the heating can be adjusted to suit the current conditions.

Why measure both temperature and humidity?

A low outdoor temperature does not automatically mean that the heating cables need to be switched on.

If it is cold but dry, there may not necessarily be any snow or moisture that could form ice. A system controlled solely by temperature therefore runs the risk of using heat even when the need is limited.

By measuring both temperature and humidity, the control system can better determine when conditions pose a risk of ice or snow forming.

This forms the basis for a more needs-based control of the heating cables.

Automatic or manual control of heating cables?

Heating cables can be controlled in various ways. In a simpler installation, for example, they can be switched on and off manually or controlled based on a set temperature.

The problem with manual control is that someone needs to recognise the need and switch the system on in good time. There is also a risk that the heating will be left on for longer than necessary.

With automatic ice and snow detection, conditions are monitored continuously and the heating cables can be activated when required.

This reduces the need for manual handling and makes it easier to use the heat when it is actually needed.

Demand-based control for more energy-efficient operation

Heating cables can have a significant impact when large areas need to be heated. How and when the system is in operation therefore affects energy consumption.

The purpose of an ice and snow melter is not to keep a surface heated throughout the winter, but to use the heat when weather conditions make it necessary.

By combining temperature and humidity data, the system can be adjusted to suit requirements. This can reduce unnecessary heating during periods when it is cold but dry.

The extent of the difference in any given installation depends, amongst other things, on the size of the system, its output, its control system, the climate and its intended use.

Do you already have an ice and snow alarm?

Many properties already have heating cables and control systems installed. Ahead of winter, it may be a good idea to check that the system is working as intended before the first snow and icy conditions set in.

It may, for example, be relevant to review:

• That the sensor and control unit are working
• That the heating cables are activated correctly
• Whether the sensors are suitable for the application in question
• Whether the existing governance framework meets current needs
• If there is scope for more needs-based management

It does not, therefore, always have to involve installing a completely new system. In some cases, an existing installation can be upgraded or the control system updated.

1. Which area or part of the property is to be protected?

Is it a garage driveway, ramp, loading bay, walkway, staircase, gutter, downpipe or roof drain?

Different applications may require different types of sensors and installations.

2. Are heating cables already installed?

In the case of an existing installation, it is important to find out what type of heating cables and control system are already in place and how the system currently operates.

This may affect the options available for upgrading or expanding the installation.

3. What conditions should the system detect?

For a demand-driven solution, the system must be able to determine when the conditions are right for ice or snow to form.

Temperature and humidity are therefore key parameters.

4. Where will the donations be used?

A sensor for a ground surface has different installation requirements to a sensor used, for example, in a guttering system or on a roof.

The type and position of the sensor therefore need to be adapted to the application.

5. What is the size of the area to be controlled?

The size of the surface area and the installed power of the heating cables affect how the control system needs to be designed.

In larger facilities, there may also be several areas or zones with different requirements.

6. How will the system work in conjunction with the existing installation?

In both new installations and upgrades, the control system must work in conjunction with the other parts of the plant.

It is therefore important to view the solution as a system in which sensors, controls and heating cables work together.