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Yes, HeatTrak snow melting mats can be used on roofs in certain applications. While HeatTrak mats are primarily designed for walkways, stairs, and entrances, they may also be installed in roof valleys and other problem areas to help prevent snow buildup and reduce the formation of ice dams. When placed in these areas, the mats create channels for melting snow and allow water to drain more effectively, helping to protect the roof from winter-related damage.

For rooftop installations, it is important to ensure the mats are installed securely and that all electrical connections and power units are positioned safely in accordance with HeatTrak's guidelines. Professional installation or consultation with a roofing contractor is recommended to avoid damage to roofing materials and to ensure proper drainage.

HeatTrak mats don't require any internal installation, making them lower cost than internal coils or expensive equipment like plows and blowers. Operating costs are very low — HeatTrak mats average about $1 per day when in use.

The sales team offers free, no-obligation consultations and quotes to help determine the right setup and prevent unnecessary purchases.

You can also use our free cost calculator to see the cost to operate your exact system. Click here

On average, HeatTrak mats have a lifespan of 5–6 years, and with proper care and storage, they can last even longer. Unlike shovels that can break after a single season, or chemical de-icers that need replenishing with every storm, HeatTrak mats can be used for multiple snow seasons.

Fun Fact: The Customer Service team has heard reports of HeatTrak mats lasting an incredible 10 to 15 years!

Snow and ice melting mats provide an efficient alternative to traditional snow removal methods. HeatTrak mats are constructed with durable materials and integrated heating technology, operating at approximately 40 degrees above ambient temperature. This melts existing snow and ice and helps prevent new accumulation at a rate of up to 2 inches per hour.

Fun fact: All the pictures on the HeatTrak website are shared by customers to show how the mats work for them.

HeatTrak mats are made of advanced polymer blend material. Electrically operated heating elements are sandwiched between two protective surfaces of non-slip rubber, making them as durable as automobile tires and allowing them to endure harsh wear. Engineers at HeatTrak have been developing this system since 2004.

Residential: 120 Volt.

Industrial: Can be manufactured for 120V, 208V, or 240V. The 36" x 20' mat only comes in 208V or 240V. Call HeatTrak for voltage questions on custom sizes.

HeatTrak mats are portable and can be placed wherever there is access to an electrical outlet. Common effective areas include: driveways, front doors, walkways, stairways, wheelchair ramps, loading docks, or any areas with foot or wheelchair traffic.

Compatible surfaces: Concrete, Brick, Grass, Turf, Wood, Gravel*, Stamped Concrete*, Composite**

*Barrier recommended: A thin layer of insulation (1/8" pressure-treated plywood, polypropylene outdoor rug or silicone mesh is recommended under the mats on these surfaces to prevent heat penetration.

**HeatTrak mats can be used on most composite decking. However, because composite decking materials and finishes vary by manufacturer, prolonged contact with vinyl or rubber products may occasionally cause discoloration or marking.

To play it safe, we recommend placing a thin, non-staining barrier that is not vinyl or rubber based—such as 1/8" plywood, polypropylene outdoor rug or silicone mesh—between the HeatTrak mat and composite decking. This provides an extra layer of separation while still allowing water to drain.

We also recommend using your HeatTrak mats only when needed to melt snow and ice, rather than operating them continuously 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Using a HeatTrak Thermostat or Wi-Fi-enabled Smart Home device is an easy way to automatically control when your mats are operating.

Reports of discoloration on composite decking are uncommon, but following these simple precautions can help protect your deck and keep your HeatTrak system working effectively throughout the winter.

HeatTrak mats are designed for outdoor use only. They should never be used indoors or in enclosed spaces. Ideal placements include front steps, driveways, walkways, patios, loading docks, and ramps — anywhere outdoor snow and ice accumulation creates a hazard.

Driveway mats — yes, they are designed to be driven on. They lay as a track for one tire, allowing the car to travel in and out of a snowy driveway.

Residential walkway, stairs, and entrance mats — foot traffic only.

Commercial mats — can also be driven on.

No. Only during snowfall and/or for a period after it. Best practice: have an electrician wire the outlet to a switch inside the home, or use a snow sensor/controller to turn them on/off from inside. It is preferable not to unplug the mats from the outlet during winter.

Best practice is to turn them on before snowfall — snowflakes evaporate on contact and no snow accumulates. If turned on after snow has fallen, they melt at a rate of 2 inches per hour.

The mats melt snow at an average rate of 2 inches per hour (approximately).

For a listing of weights per size, refer to the "Products" page on the HeatTrak website under "Product Specifications".

The average cost to operate a HeatTrak system is only about $0.18 per hour. Running them for 10 hours during a snowfall costs about $1.80.

You can also use our free cost calculator to see the cost to operate your exact system. Click here

If turned on before snowfall, snowflakes evaporate on contact — no water accumulation.

If turned on after snowfall, there will be a slight water run-off that goes under the surrounding snow, and small puddles on the mat that eventually evaporate. Puddles sit beneath the non-slip treading, so there's no slip hazard.

Yes, but no more than 13 amps should be on a single plug. Check the Product Specifications section on the website under "Sizing & Amps" to determine the amperage of each mat size.

Yes! Three automation options are available:

1. Automatic Thermostat Extension Cable

Plugs into a 120V outlet. Automatically turns on below 35°F and off above 50°F. LED indicator shows when operating.

2. Outdoor Wi-Fi Wireless Outlet

Control mats from anywhere via smartphone app. Schedule ahead for storms. No monthly fees.

3. Wireless Outlet and Remote Control

Control from inside the home with one button push. 75-foot range. Supports up to 15 amps per remote. Good for homes without smartphones.

4. Automatic Snow-Sensing Controller (Snow Sensor)

Automatic activation: The Snow Sensor powers your HeatTrak mats whenever snowfall is detected. Plug-and-play setup: No professional installation needed—works right out of the box.

Note: Automation is not required. You can manually control the mats or have an electrician wire an outlet to an indoor switch.

Male connector (input):18".
Female connector (output):4".
Combined connected length:22".

The Power Unit (sold separately) is 6 feet long. You can use an extension cord rated for outdoor use and 14 gauge or lower. Make sure to properly cover the connection point so water doesn't touch the electrical pins. 10' and 25' watertight extenders are available on our website. You may connect multiple extenders together for longer length. Example: you can connect a 10' extender to a 25' extender for a total length of 35'.

1. GFCI Power Unit (Required)

Every set of residential mats needs one. One Power Unit per set (not per mat). Connects up to 13 amps. If your system exceeds 13 amps, you need a second Power Unit. Contains a 6-foot cord and GFCI for safety. Designed to stay outside all winter (but not submerged).

2. Cable Extenders

Available in 10FT, 25FT, and 20-inch lengths. The 20" extender is used where a Stair Mat leads to a Walkway Mat. HeatTrak's watertight extenders are purpose-built to match all mats and Power Units, ensuring a 100% watertight connection.

Mats are available in 120V, 208V, and 240V. The voltage determines the plug/receptacle type. Ensure your outlet matches the receptacle of your mat.

120V: NEMA5-15 / 208V & 240V: NEMA6-15

No. The mats are equipped with a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) below the plug. It immediately cuts off all power if it detects a current leakage of more than 6mA. All HeatTrak products are rigorously tested and TUV certified to UL499 standards.

Small-to-medium pets: Yes, perfectly safe to walk and lie on the mats.

Large/heavy pets: Not recommended. The weight can affect internal heating elements, possibly causing overheating.

Pet houses: Never place mats inside a pet house. Use them outside only — mats should never be covered or used indoors.

Accidents: Mild dish soap and water will clean up any mess. Mats are waterproof and can be hosed down.

When snow melts, small puddles may form but they sit beneath the non-slip surface, eliminating any slip hazard. Water run-off flows under surrounding snow. Eventually all water evaporates. Best practice: turn on before snowfall to prevent any accumulation.

Yes. HeatTrak ensures mats and extension cords are watertight and durable. Since 2004, over 1,000,000 snow-melting mats have been produced. All mats include a built-in GFCI protector as an extra safety layer. A two-year warranty provides additional peace of mind.

If you notice reduced performance, check that the mats are on a solid surface with no air gaps underneath, and that the surface is not elevated (which causes heat loss). Also ensure the mats have been running long enough to heat the ground beneath. If issues persist, contact HeatTrak customer service.

No. The mats will not wear out from being left on for the entire winter season. Accessories are available to help automate turning them on/off if preferred.

Instruction manual(s) are available for download on the Instruction Manual Library page to find the manual for your specific mat model.

All HeatTrak® products are covered by a 2-year manufacturer's warranty.

All HeatTrak® products come with a 2-year manufacturer's warranty from the date of shipment. HeatTrak has the right to repair or replace any defective product. The warranty does not cover damage from improper use, incorrect installation, or product abuse.

For the full return policy, visit: Return Policy

The mats are highly durable and intended for outdoor use throughout the entire winter season. They withstand winter weather without damage. Only roll them away at the end of the snow season.

Steps:

1. Thoroughly inspect mats, cords, plugs, power units, thermostats, remotes, and outlets for damage.
2. Clean with mild dish detergent and a scrub brush to remove dirt, salt, and debris.
3. Hose down and air dry overnight.
4. Secure connector fittings with caps or electrical tape to prevent moisture seepage.
5. Store in a dry, cool area with low humidity, laid flat (preferred) or rolled. Ensure mats are fully cooled down first.

Mats can be rolled up or laid flat. Before storing, inspect all electrical cords, plugs, thermostats, and remote controls for damage. Order replacements if needed.

Store in a dry, cool location with low humidity. Make sure cords and plugs cannot be cut or damaged. Allow mats to completely cool down before rolling or stacking.

The power cord is at the bottom right or top left of the mat (depending on rotation). All Pro/Industrial mats include a crossover strip (cable cover) to hide the cord if you need to run it to the other side.