10 Signs Your Heated Driveway Needs Immediate Repair

A must-have during the cold, harsh winters of Canada, heated driveways can make your life so much easier. They can save you from the hassle of shoveling snow and the dangers of an icy driveway without you having to do more than lift a finger. Unfortunately, heated driveways can experience issues over the years, which might require immediate repair. In this blog, we will discuss the 10 issues you need to watch out for.

1. Uneven melting of snow

Uneven melting of snow is a clear sign that your heated driveway is not functioning optimally. If you find that parts of your driveway are covered in snow while the rest are clear, it could indicate that certain sections are malfunctioning due to problems such as wiring issues, damage or a faulty control system.

2. Cold spots

The easiest way to check if the heating elements of your driveways are faulty is to look for cold spots. If certain parts of your driveway are significantly colder than others, the heating cables underneath might be broken or disconnected. For hydronic systems, cold spots could be indicative of a blockage in the system. Prompt addressing of the issue can prevent further damage.

3. Spike in energy bills

An unexpected increase in electricity bills could point towards an existing issue in your driveway heating system. For example, malfunctioning parts in the system may cause it to overwork, thus expending more energy than usual. It is crucial to regularly monitor your energy usage so you can swiftly address any issues that may arise as far as your heated driveway is concerned.

4. Failure to turn on

An obvious sign, if your heated driveway refuses to turn on, you need to get it checked immediately by a licensed electrician. They can get to the root cause of the issue and find out if the sensors are to blame or the wiring. Or perhaps if the control panel is at fault. Their accurate diagnosis is the first step towards a quick resolution.

5. Overloaded circuits

Frequent tripping of circuit breakers caused by heated driveways could possibly point to a problem with its electrical system. Faulty wires may lead to circuit overload or even short circuits, which can be potentially dangerous if left unchecked. Immediate attention from a qualified electrician is a must.

6. Leakage

Water pooling or leaks are issues that are common with hydronic heated driveways. They can be attributed to broken pipes or loose connections, leading to a reduction in the efficacy of the system as a whole. Besides, they can also cause structural damage to your driveway so fixing them as soon as possible is a must.

7. Damage on the driveway

Do not dismiss cracks on your driveway as cosmetic damage. They might be indicative of an underlying issue. For example, deep cracks could expose your driveway heating system to the rigors of the weather. Moisture and debris can hamper the functionality of the system, which is why it's best to repair cracks as soon as possible.

8. Strange noises

Sounds such as gurgling, hissing or buzzing from a heated driveway could signal a wide range of issues that can turn into major problems if left unaddressed. From faulty pumps to electrical malfunctions and trapped air in hydronic systems - each of these has the potential to damage your system permanently.

9. Inconsistency in temperature

Taking longer than usual to heat or heating up inconsistently are red flags. Professional inspection is necessary as it can help you determine the cause, which could be anything - from malfunctioning thermostats to faulty sensors.

10. Age-related wear

Finally, if your driveway heating system is more than 10 years old and is beginning to display a wide variety of issues, it might be time to replace the whole system. Especially if repairs are out of the question due to the extent of the damage.

Conclusion

Paying close attention to signs of trouble and repairing your heated driveway accordingly can save you a world of hassle. If you’re wondering who to call for heated driveway repairs, replacements and installations in the Greater Toronto Area, A.S. Electrical Services is here for you. Contact us today and let our licensed electricians help you.