Snow melting is a cost-effective way of reducing time spent on snow removal. The process involves using a large machine, called a snow-melter, to meltdown large portions of snow. Snow melting is often used as an alternative or supplement to snow dumping. Melting snow rather than displacing it can reduce the cost of snow removal by 30 to 40 percent. Because of the time and money-saved, companies with large spaces needing to be cleared of snow often outsource the work to snow removal companies like G. McNeill & Son.
Snow melting is ideal for spaces where large pile-ups of snow would be cumbersome or even dangerous. Eliminating snow rather than hauling it or piling it up allows fewer potential accidents and less mess when the weather warms up. Snow melting is frequently used to keep spaces like roads and airport tarmacs free of snow so that they can be used year-round.
How does Snow Melting Work?
After a heavy snowfall, a snow removal company will inspect the site and assess whether snow melting will be beneficial. Suppose your company has an ongoing relationship or contract with the snow removal company. In that case, the process will be quick and efficient, as the snow removal company will likely have a blueprint of your site that they previously used to craft a plan of attack for when the snow comes. Having a response plan allows the snow removers to be ready with the proper equipment your site needs in the event of a winter storm.
If this is required, the removal company will generally bring in a mobile snow-melter, which looks something like a small semi-truck — to begin work. The machine works by using flame burners or hot water — or a combination of the two — to melt snow. Most snow-melters have a built-in reservoir to hold melt-water, but sometimes the melted snow is siphoned into a storm drain or left to dry on the ground.
What are the Benefits?
Snow melting is a tried-and-true practice that has existed since the 19th century. It is used where snow dumping would be a hassle. Removing and dumping snow can be costly and lengthy. It can also be geographically unfeasible, depending on the area needing snow clearing.
Land suitable for snow dumping may be far away and not worth the cost of transportation to reach. Melting snow rather than removing it saves time and money overall, as the expenses of dumping snow at distant sites can add up quickly. Costs can include driver wages, price of gas, and dumping ground fees.
