The claim. Plug a HeatTrak mat into an outlet (an outdoor one is most convenient) and it "will prevent snow and ice accumulation on walkways and stairs around your home." The mat measures 20x60 inches and can be daisy-chained to as many as four other mats. Each mat costs $120. The first mat requires a power unit costing $30... Smaller mats for stair treads cost $50 each.
The check: The weather didn't cooperate fully, so we sprinkled old snow onto the mat, simulating use after a storm. (Instructions say that use before and dring snowfall is preferable.)
Bottom line. Let it snow. Both mats should remove falling or fallen snow and help with freezing rain.
