Life Simplified.

KEMF's HOTstars line is one of the few heated mat systems designed to support vehicle weight, making them suitable for parking spaces where cars will drive over the mats. Most competitors, including HeatTrak, design their mats primarily for walkways, stairs, and entrances. KEMF mats also feature a raised tread design (star pattern) that provides traction even when powered off, and use watertight screw connectors to link up multiple mats together up to 15 amps on a single circuit.

Individual mats range from 90 W to 600 W depending on size. For example, a 20" x 48" HOTstars mat draws 240 W at 120V (2.1 amps). When connecting multiple mats, total amperage determines how many can run on a single circuit—typically up to 6 HOTstars mats 20" x 48" can be connected using the watertight connector system before requiring a separate circuit.

Yes. KEMF's outdoor heated mats are constructed from heavy-duty rubber (similar to automobile tire material) and are designed for continuous outdoor exposure during winter months. The 0.4" thickness and raised tread design ensure durability even in harsh Canadian winter conditions including freeze-thaw cycles, heavy snow loads, and vehicle traffic (for HOTstars models).

No. Unlike some competitor mats that require a plywood or foam barrier to prevent heat loss into the ground, KEMF's raised design (star pattern) creates natural air gaps that reduce heat transfer to the surface below. The mats can be placed directly on concrete, asphalt, wood decks, or pavers without additional insulation.

KEMF heated mats are designed to melt snow on contact when turned on before snowfall begins. For best results, activate mats as snow starts falling so flakes evaporate immediately upon contact. If turned on after snow accumulation, allow several hours for the mat to melt through the snow layer. Melting speed depends on snow depth, ambient temperature, and whether the mat was pre-heated.

KEMF products are available through authorized distributors across Canada, with primary coverage in Quebec. The company also sells direct through kemf.ca. For commercial installations or large projects, KEMF works with professional installers who can design and install complete snow melting systems. Contact KEMF directly to find a distributor in your region or inquire about becoming an authorized distributor.

For high-traffic areas like business entrances, residential walkways, or stairs used daily, heated mats eliminate recurring snow removal labor costs and reduce liability from slip-and-fall incidents. A one-time mat investment (typically $200-$600 per mat depending on size) plus seasonal electricity costs often pays for itself within 2-3 winters compared to professional snow removal contracts. Mats also eliminate the need for salt or chemical de-icers, which can damage concrete and landscaping over time.

KEMF mats are available in both 120V and 240V configurations. For small installations (1-3 mats covering entryways or stairs), 120V is sufficient and plugs into standard household outlets using the GFCI power unit. For larger systems (4-8 connected mats covering long walkways or driveways), 240V is more efficient and reduces the amperage load per circuit. Both voltages deliver the same watt output per square foot; the choice depends on your electrical setup and total coverage area.