How much does it cost to run a heated mat?

The cost to operate the HeatTrak mat depends on the size of the mat. On average, each mat costs approximately $0.15 an hour to operate. Assuming the mat is on for 4-6 hours per snow day, the approximate cost per snow day to operate is between $0.60 and $0.90.

What happens to the water when the snow melts?

The best way to use the HeatTrak mats is to turn the mat on before the snow begins to fall. This way, there will not be any water accumulation when the snow melts, because the snow flakes will evaporate as soon as they land on the mat. However, you can turn on the mats after the snow has already fallen on them. 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. Also, there will be small puddles on the mat until the water completely evaporates. But have no fear, these small puddles will be beneath the non-slip treading, so there will not be any slip hazard. Eventually, all the water will evaporate.

Snow Shoveling & Heart Attack Risk

Shoveling during winter temperatures poses unique health risks and may not be the best exercise of everyone. Each year, the combination of shoveling and typical winter temperatures causes an increase in the number of heart attacks, with heart attack deaths tripling among men 35 to 49 years old. With this in mind, Dr. Forman offers tips for safe snow removal this season:
Certain individuals should consult their doctor before shoveling snow:
People who have previously had a heart attack or other cardiovascular disease.
People with a history of chest pain or angina.
People with medical histories of high blood pressure, diabetes or high cholesterol levels.
People who smoke or who have other cardiovascular risk factors.
People who do not exercise regularly.
For those who wish to shovel snow, follow these general tips to help stay healthy:
Dress warmly and be sure to protect extremities such as your nose, ears, hands and feet. This is important because cold weather can reduce circulation, aggravating heart disease.
Stretch your arm and leg muscles as you would before any exercise; this minimizes musculoskeletal injury and strain.
Also warm up your cardiovascular system with a light activity such as marching in place or walking before shoveling. Warming up is an important means of modifying cardiovascular strain.
Don’t eat a heavy meal or drink alcohol prior to shoveling (this is not a good way to work off a big meal!). Avoid stimulants such as caffeine or nicotine, which increase heart rate and cause blood vessels to constrict.
Use a shovel with a small blade. It is safer for your heart as well as your back and joints to lift smaller and more frequent amounts of snow than to haul a few huge shovelfuls. Likewise, it is important to have a shovel that is suited for your height.
Pace yourself. Start out shoveling slowly, and don’t try to clear the entire area at once.
Take frequent breaks to give your heart a rest. Use the time off to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated. Also make sure you are eating normally and taking your routine medications. Push the snow rather than lifting and throwing it.
If you must lift, do it properly. Spread your hands along the handle for more leverage, stand with your feet hip-width apart, and bend at the knees (not at the back).
Do not twist or throw snow over your shoulder. Scoop in a forward motion and step in the direction you throw the snow to avoid lower back pain the day after shoveling.
Know the warning signs of a heart attack. Stop immediately and seek emergency medical help if you experience heart attack symptoms such as chest pain, shoulder, neck or arm pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, fainting, sweating or nausea.