HeatTrak brand electric snow melt mat

[granpajohn]

Anybody tried this sort of thing?
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=470939031&pf_rd_i=507846

I have a spot perfect for 2 step heaters. Would come to about $150 I think. Most reviewers loved them, some hated.
An industrial version is a lot more cash. Hard to justify in our mild southern climate. (Cheaper than an injury, I guess.)

picture (hopefully):
Edit; trying new picture.....

 

[shawneyboy]

50 bucks for one tread ??? Damn that could get expensive for a house like mine (raised ranch). I just use rock salt, but then again I am a cheap SOB.

Shawn

 

[gpcollen1]

You need those for MD? Wow! i have never seen anybody in the northeast with those??

 

[granpajohn]

Gulp... Well...
The location is a northside brick 2 step which takes a drip as long as there is snow on the (equally northside) roof. Entering the world's most poorly designed door. The most used door in the house, by both man and beast. As to the temperature...The step sees no sun from Oct-April. Once it is frozen, it stays that way. Admit it is a shorter winter here, but it is still a problem for about 5 weeks a year.

If it was a normal concrete step, at a normal doorway, it wouldn't be much problem.
If the house was well designed with normal eaves, back porch, etc...it would be fine.
If the dogs didn't come through here dozens of times each day, it could probably be salted without much mess into the house.

I happen to have electric service right next to this door. This little mat would be perfect...If it works.
I also guess that the dogs might sit up on that mat for long periods of time, surveying their domain.