Heat Mat, underfloor heating company, has found a new gap in the market for its ice and frost prevention system: keeping animals warm.

Heat Mat’s 7mm underfloor heating cable is commonly installed in screed under paths, driveways, terraces, ramps and walkways to prevent frost and icy conditions and to help melt snow. Because it prevents slippery conditions underfoot, Heat Mat cable is the ideal solution for organisations with public ways, such as businesses, schools and nursing homes. However it’s also increasingly popular with animals and their owners. 

At ZSL Whipsnade Zoo in the Chiltern Hills, Heat Mat’s 210W/sqm cable has been embedded into a fake rock lookout in the Cheetah Rock enclosure. 

The cable was covered with a concrete screed to protect against the elements and the animals. Heat Mat’s thermal i-primer was used to reduce downward heat loss and temperature sensors were embedded into the screed. Thermostats were fitted so that the temperature of each rock could be independently controlled.

Heat Mat’s 7mm outdoor heating cable has also been used to heat dog kennels and catteries, as well as a house for giant tortoises and a roof space for bats. The company has recently had interest from a terrapin owner looking for a way to heat his terrapin pool, and from a large donkey sanctuary.

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