Please see the Products section for detailed information on operating costs.
Do I roll the mats up after every use or can they be left outside for a long period of time?
The mats are very durable and are designed to be left outside for the entire winter season.
The winter elements will not harm the mat in any way.
Do I leave the mats on all the time?
The mats only need to be left on during snowfall and/or for a period of time after the snowfall or to keep areas free of ice.
Will the mats wear out if I leave them on for the entire winter?
No. Leaving them on continually throughout the winter will not have any detrimental effects.
How many mats can plug into a single outlet?
The number of mats that can plug into a single outlet depends on the mats’ total amperage and the circuit breaker rating. Most household circuits can handle 15 amps. For a listing of the amperage for each mat size, please refer to the “Products Specifications ” in the “Product Page”.
What type of voltage do I need to operate the mats?
The mats are available in both 120V or 240V applications. Refer to the “Products Specifications ” in the “Product Page”.
Will the mats work if plugged into a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlet?
Yes. The mats are designed to be connected to a GFCI.
How many Stair Mats can be connected with one plug?
The number of stair mats that can be connected with one plug depends on the size of the stair mat.
A good point of reference is as follows:
One single plug for any set of stairs whose cumulative linear feet is less than 35.
Example
Stair mats that are 11” x 4’ can be connected in a set of no more than 8 stairs (4 ft x 8 qty = 32 cumulative linear feet).
Stair mats that are 11” x 5’ can only be connected in a set of 7 stairs (5 ft x 7 qty = 35 linear feet).
How hot do the mats get?
The mats will maintain an average temperature of 4.4 C (40 F) above the ambient temperature.
For example, if the ambient temperature is –18 C (0 F), the mat’s temperature will be approximately 4.4 C (40 F).
Do I turn on the mat before or after it snows?
It is better to turn the Heat Trak Mats on before the snow begins to fall. This will prevent snow accumulating on the mats as the snowflakes will evaporate upon contact with the mat*.
If the mat is turned on after the snow has fallen, the mat will require a few hours to melt through the snow. Obviously the length of time will depend on the amount of snow
* Blizzard and drifting snow conditions will increase melting time.
How long does it take to melt the snow?
The mats will melt snow at an average rate of 2” per hour* (approximately).
* Blizzard and drifting snow conditions will increase melting time.
What happens to the water when the snow melts?
It is better to turn the Heat Trak Mats on before the snow begins to fall. This will prevent the majority of water accumulation when the snow melts as the snowflakes will evaporate as soon as they land on the mat. However, you can turn the mats on after the snow has already fallen; in this case give the mat a few hours to melt through the snow. When the snow melts, there will be a slight water run-off, but the run-off will go under the snow that surrounds the mat.
Small puddles of water will be visible on the mat until the water completely evaporates but the water will be beneath the non-slip chevron treads, so there will not be a slip hazard. Eventually, all the water will evaporate.
Are the mats dangerous?
No. The mats have a Equipment Leakage Circuit Interrupter (ELCI) below the plug.
The ELCI will instantaneously shut off all power to the mat if it detects a current leakage of more than 6mA.
For example, if a mat accidentally incurs a cut that could potentially cause harm, the ELCI will immediately detect it and shut off all power to the mat.
In addition, all mats are tested before leaving the manufacturing facility with a Hi-Pot machine that passes 1000 volts through the mats.
Can the mat be secured to the ground?
The HeatTrak mats and Stair Tread Mats are designed and manufactured with 3/8” brass grommet holes to make securing the mats both simple and effective. To secure the mats, we recommend using screws that are appropriate for the specific surface.
Can I drive on the mats?
No. The Heat Track mats are designed for pedestrian traffic only.
How long is the electrical cord and can I use an extension cord?
The mat is supplied with a 6’ long cord. An extension cord can be used as long as it is the correct type and the connection between the cord and plug is watertight.
Where is the power cord located on the mat?
The default location of the power cord is on the lower right corner of the mat, which is also the upper left corner if you rotate the mat.
The power cord can be reversed to the other side if requested when the order is placed.
Where is the power cord located on the stair mats?
The default location of the power cord on the Stair Tread is upper right, which is also lower left if rotated.
The power cord can be reversed to the other side if requested when the order is placed.
How long are the connector cables for the Stair Mats?
The standard connector cable is 18”. Custom lengths are available upon request.
Are Heat Trak custom-sized mats available?
Custom sized mats are available in widths of 11”, 24”, 36” and 48” and no longer than 25 feet.
How much do the mats weigh?
For a listing of weights per size, please refer to the “Products” page under “Product Specifications”.
How long is the warranty?
All Heat Trak products have a two-year manufacturer’s warranty.
