Gutter Solutions for Every Home – Part 1: Heated Gutters
October 15, 2018Other than dry leaves and dead twigs, ice is the gutter system’s worst enemy. Not only is ice so heavy that it could strain your gutters but it also won’t thaw evenly, blocking troughs so water doesn’t drain properly
If you’ve ever experienced ice dams in your gutters before, you know how much of a pain they are to remove. While some calcium chloride and a garden rake may do the trick, the job is just too labor-intensive – not to mention you’ll need to do it in freezing temperatures.
The best solution is to prevent ice dams from forming in the first place, and that’s where heated gutters come in.
How Heated Gutters Work
Heated gutters use a simple yet sophisticated technology to raise temperature in gutter troughs. This way, any snow that manages to get into the gutters won’t form into ice, melting and draining instead through the system like rainwater.
Wait. Wouldn’t such a system require wires and other components that may negatively affect a home’s curb appeal?
Yes, heated gutters do incorporate heating elements BUT these are carefully hidden from sight. No one will ever know you have heated gutters unless you tell them.
How much energy will heated gutters require?
Though heated gutters do need electricity to function, their energy requirements are minimal, generating heat only when necessary. This prevents unnecessary energy consumption, preventing unwanted spikes in your energy bill.
When it comes to preventing ice dams, you can’t go wrong with heated gutters, especially if you live in an area that sees a lot of snow. With the gutter solution minimally affecting your home’s appearance and energy use as well, there certainly is no reason for you to not take advantage of heated gutters.
