01
Ends the shovelling and the salt
Snow lands and disappears — up to 2 inches an hour, all night if it needs to. No shovel. No salt bucket.
2″/hrMelt rate
“No more shoveling, and no more salt!”Lawrence A.
Wake up to a clear path. No shovel. No salt.
Why owners buy it
What it changes about your winter
02
Safe footing for whoever needs it most
Keep the surface clear, dry, and safer underfoot. it provides added confidence when winter conditions make every step count.
7–10°CAbove ambient
“It really helped my old dog and me get outside safely.”Janice M.
03
Built for the winter
Made from heavy-duty rubber with watertight electrical connections, they’re safe for outdoor use in rain, snow, and freezing temperatures.
WaterproofStays outdoors all Winter
“We are in Saskatchewan, so we deal with significant snow & cold… it has been fantastic.”Eugene B.
04
Quick plug-and-play setup
Roll it out, connect it, plug it into a GFCI outlet. Move it whenever you like. You safely daisy-chain multiple mats and create a custom heated pathway for your space.
10 mineasy setup
“Set up could not be easier.”Janice M.
Ready for the next snowfall?
Choose your snow melting mat ↑How it works
How HotStep clears your path
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Step 1
Lay it down
Position the mats end-to-end along the path and connect them on one line.
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Step 2
Plug it in
Run them off a GFCI power unit and a standard 120V outlet.
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Step 3
Walk out
The surface holds 7–10°C above the air and melts up to 2″ of snow an hour.
What’s inside the mat6 features
- Melts up to 2″ of snow an hourHeated element under the tread
- Stays clear and dry, not just wetSurface held 7–10°C above air
- No wiring, just plug and useOne GFCI line, 120V outlet
- Cover a whole walkway, not one spotMats interconnect end-to-end
- Safe to leave out all winterUL 499 · CSA C22.2 certified
- Enhanced grip for safer stepsSlip-resistant texture
Before you order
How HotStep mats connect
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Outlet. Plug a GFCI power unit into a standard 120V outlet.
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Male/male cord runs from the power unit to the first mat.
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Mat to mat. Each mat’s male end plugs into the next mat’s female end.
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Female/female cord turns the run around a corner.
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Keep going in one direction until the path is covered.
Max 13 A per power unit. Mats lie end-to-end and can’t be turned to cover a wider path.
Send us your measurementsWe’ll plan it for you.
Use cases
Where owners are putting them
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The path to the hot tub
“After 10″ of snow our path to our tub is clear and warm.”
Martin S. -
The front walkway
“No more shoveling the front entrance walkway.”
Irene T. -
The front walkway
“No more shoveling the front entrance walkway.”
Irene T. -
Porch steps
“Our porch is extremely slippery… This is a perfect solution.”
Samantha A.
Against the alternatives
Same path. Very different mat.
- Flat, smooth surface
- Meltwater pools on top
- Slick underfoot when wet
- Weak or flimsy thermoplastic material with low weight tolerance
- Raised cross-tread grip
- Channels drain meltwater away
- Sure footing in wet & icy weather
- Heavy-duty SBR rubber construction
- Flat, smooth surface
- Meltwater pools on top
- Slick underfoot when wet
- Weak or flimsy thermoplastic material with low weight tolerance
- Raised cross-tread grip
- Channels drain meltwater away
- Sure footing in wet & icy weather
- Heavy-duty SBR rubber construction
Compare models
Built to outlast the rest. Pick yours.
| HotStepStandard | HotStep GlowGlow edge strip | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | — | — |
| Melt rate | 2″ per hour | 2″ per hour |
| Glow-in-the-dark edge | — | ✓ Marks the path edge at night |
| Best for | Daytime paths, driveways | Steps, unlit walkways, hot-tub paths |
| Certification | UL 499 · CSA C22.2 | UL 499 · CSA C22.2 |
| Interconnects | ✓ Same GFCI line | ✓ Same GFCI line |
| Choose a size |
Specs & details
The numbers before you buy
Spec at a glance
| Voltage | 120V household outlet, through a GFCI Power Unit |
|---|---|
| Power draw | 90W (Stair Mat) to 600W (Walkway Mat XL) |
| Melt rate | About 1.5–2.5″ of snow per hour |
| Surface temp | 7–10°C above ambient |
| Thickness | 10mm |
| Material | UV-protected heavy-duty rubber, supports vehicle weight |
| Max load per GFCI | 13A — e.g. 3 Walkway Mats (3.9A each) |
| Power unit | GFCI Power Unit required, sold separately |
| Certification | UL 499 · CSA C22.2 No. 72-10 |
What it costs to run
Based on the national average of $0.17/kWh. Your local rate may differ.
| Mat size | Power | Per hour | 8 hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stair Mat 11″×38″ | 90W | $0.015 | $0.12 |
| Doormat 24″×40″ | 240W | $0.041 | $0.33 |
| Passageway 48″×20″ | 240W | $0.041 | $0.33 |
| Walkway 48″×36″ | 430W | $0.073 | $0.58 |
| Walkway XL 60″×40″ | 600W | $0.10 | $0.80 |
Customer reviews
What owners are saying
Overall rating: 4.763889 / 5 from 72 reviews.
AI Generated Review Summary
HotStep Heated Mats are highly effective snow melting solutions for Canadian winters, praised for their functionality and safety. They are designed to prevent slips and falls without the need for constant shoveling. Certified for safety and performance, these durable mats meet UL 499 and CSA C22.2 standards. They are built with UV-protected rubber to withstand harsh winter conditions and can support the weight of vehicles. The company is also commended for its prompt service and timely delivery.
Summary topics
- Mat Functionality (34%): Many customers loved the mats for their functionality and ability to keep steps ice-free in the Canadian winters.
- Company Service (25%): Many customers stated that the service provided by the company was prompt and received their orders in a timely manner.
Review topics: ["installation","delivery","performance","mats","quality","support","snow","service","work","mat","matts"].
Review highlights
- "Installation was simple and the mats work beautifully." —
- "I bought the automatic snow sensor and wired the mats works perfectly." —
- "I was overwhelmed with the great service." —
Reviews
"Perfect size. As ordered. Can’t wait for snow!?"
2 Season heated mats
"I gifted my husband these heated mats at Christmas for the stairs down to our hot tub Then spring came and guess what, they are heating my little greenhouse to keep my plants cosy until the weather warms up! What a versatile product!"
Heated Mats
"Love the mats, they work well in melting snow and ice in our front walkway. No more shoveling, and no more salt ! Suggest that you add a few drain holes in the mats to prevent the mats from collecting water"
Just in time
"After the courier misplaced part of my shipment I got them just in time for the next snowfall. Working as advertised. Very happy with them."
Return of the mats because they will not work for me.
"The mats are of high quality and very sturdy for the Canadian winter. However I could not use the 24 by 40 mats because I was planning to use them for my 30 by 20 ft walkway thinking I could use them lengthways. Unfortunately these mats can not be used this way and will need to be returned. I am presently waiting on directions from Canada Mats as to how best to do this and not getting a very hasty response. So the last chapter is yet to be written. I am hoping for the best."
Excellent warm path
"After my sister in law installed hers we were convinced to try them. Wish we’d done this sooner. Absolutely love them. After 10” of snow our path to our tub is clear and warm."
Matt Review
"Great product. Seems to be working really well. This week will be the challenge with lots of snow coming. I should have bought two more and will for next winter"
We are in Saskatchewan, so
"We are in Saskatchewan, so we deal with significant snow & cold. We purchased a 40" x 60" mat for a small deck between our sunroom & hot tub about 2 weeks ago to make the small trek back & forth safer and more enjoyable. . . So far, it has been fantastic."
Excellent product
"I used my mat for the first time yesterday. It handled the freezing rain beautifully. It really helped my old dog and me get outside safely. I love how easy it is to move. And set up could not be easier. Really happy with it!!!"
Exceeded expectations
"These are fantastic. They even heat the area around the mats so most of the porch stays clear of snow. Our porch is extremely slippery with snow on it due to the sealant used. We didn't know what to do besides try to rough it up or add another coating. This is a perfect solution, we love it."
Q&A
Our promise
Ordering with confidence
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30-day returns
Return unused mats in their original packaging within 30 days of delivery. See our return policy for details.
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Help planning your layout
Send us your path measurements and we’ll work out the mats, cords and power units you need.
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Ships across Canada & the USA
We deliver to addresses anywhere in Canada and the USA.
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Canadian owned & operated
A Canadian company making mats for Canadian winters.
Frequently asked questions
Need help? We’re here for you.
From setup to safety, we’ve covered the top questions. Still unsure? Contact our team for expert support and personalized guidance.
Call (800) 624-0041 or email sales@canadamats.ca
How do HotStep snow melting mats work?
HotStep snow melting mats heat just above freezing to melt snow on contact—keeping walkways, driveways, and stairs clear and safe. Crafted from durable, weather-resistant materials, these snowmelt mats are built for tough Canadian winters. Easily connect multiple mats to cover larger areas and eliminate the need for ice melt, snow salt, or constant shoveling. Perfect for both residential and commercial snow removal, they offer an energy-efficient solution for staying safe all season.
How do I connect multiple mats to cover a large area?
HotStep snow melting mats feature built-in male and female connectors, making it easy to daisy-chain multiple snowmelt mats together for custom coverage. Whether you're clearing a long walkway or a wide entrance, the connectors snap together quickly, even in freezing conditions or while wearing gloves.
How much snow can the mats melt per hour, and how quickly do they work?
HotStep snow melting mats melt approximately 1.5 to 2.5 inches of snow per hour, depending on ambient temperature and snow or ice buildup. These efficient snowmelt mats begin heating within minutes, working quickly to replace the need for snow salt or ice melt.
How energy-efficient are the mats, and will they increase my electricity bill?
HotStep snow melting mats are up to 20% more energy-efficient than other snowmelt mats. They melt snow faster at the same wattage, helping you save on electricity—and reduce your use of snow salt or ice melt.
Are the mats waterproof and safe to leave outside all winter?
Yes, HotStep snow melting mats are fully waterproof and built for Canadian winters. Made with durable rubber and watertight connectors, they’re safe to leave outdoors through snow, rain, and freezing temperatures — no more shoveling, snow salt, or ice melt needed.
Can the mats handle heavy vehicles like trucks or SUVs?
Yes — HotStep snow melting mats are built with heavy-duty rubber and enclosed heating film, tough enough to support the weight of cars, trucks, and SUVs. Ideal for driveways and other high-traffic areas.
Are the mats safe to use on stairs and uneven surfaces?
Absolutely. HotStep snowmelt mats are designed for stairs and irregular surfaces, helping prevent slips and falls by keeping snow and ice from accumulating.
Full product details
Description
Keep your walkways, stairs, and entrances safe this winter with HotStep snow melting mats—a clean, efficient alternative to snow salt and ice melt. Designed for Canadian winters, these durable snowmelt mats automatically melt snow and ice to help prevent slips and falls, without the need for constant shoveling.
Certified for safety and performance, HotStep mats meet UL 499 standards for electric heating appliances and CSA C22.2 No. 72-10, trusted across Canada. Built with UV-protected rubber, these mats are strong enough to support the weight of vehicles and withstand harsh winter conditions.
Just plug into a GFCI outlet and let the mat do the work—no mess, no chemicals, and no back pain.
Start building your custom HotStep snow melting system today.
HotStep Snow Melting Heated Mats require at least one GFCI Power unit to plug into your home outlet. See more in the specifications.
Note: HotStep Snow Melting Heated Mats is only compatible with this GFCI Power unit which is sold separately.
It is not recommended for cars to be parked on the HotStep Mats for extended periods of time. This may cause the tires to overheat and get damaged.
Specifications
| Mat Type | Size | Voltage | Wattage | Amperage | Thickness | Net Weight (kgs) |
| Walkway Mat XL | 59" x 40" | 120V | 600W | 5.3A | 10mm | 15.5 |
| Walkway Mat | 48" x 36" | 120V | 430W | 3.9A | 10mm | 11.2 |
| Passageway Mat | 48" x 20" | 120V | 240W | 2.1A | 10mm | 6.2 |
| Doormat | 24" x 40" | 120V | 240W | 2.1A | 10mm | 5.8 |
| Stair Mat | 11" x 38" | 120V | 90W | 0.8A | 10mm | 2.5 |
Snow Melting Mat Energy Consumption
Average residential electricity price (national weighted average): $0.17 per kWh
Note: This estimate is based on a national average; Actual electricity costs may vary depending on your location and local utility rates. Use the estimates as a guideline, and check your area’s rates for the most accurate calculation.
|
Mat Type |
Watts (W) |
Power (kW) |
Cost per Hour |
Cost for 8 Hours |
|
Walkway Mat XL |
600 W |
0.60 kW |
0.60 × 0.17 = $0.10 |
$0.80 |
|
Walkway Mat |
430 W |
0.43 kW |
0.43 × 0.17 = $0.073 |
$0.58 |
|
Passageway Mat |
240 W |
0.24 kW |
0.24 × 0.17 = $0.041 |
$0.33 |
|
Doormat |
240 W |
0.24 kW |
0.24 × 0.17 = $0.041 |
$0.33 |
|
Stair Mat |
90 W |
0.09 kW |
0.09 × 0.17 = $0.015 |
$0.12 |
Installation
BEFORE YOU START
1. Check that the delivery note is correct compared to what has actually arrived.
2. Perform a visual control
a. Visible damage on the cable
b. Visible damage on the plugs/packaging
c. Visible damage on the mat/power cable
ASSEMBLY OF HEATING MATS
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Before installing the heating mats: Remove ice and snow from the area where you want to use the mats, you can also place the mats directly on snow and ice if needed. Warning: Do not walk on the mats until it has melted down to solid ground. Make sure the surface is free from sharp objects like stones, glass, nails, etc., which can damage the mats.
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Interconnecting heating mats: All models are constructed with waterproof connector plugs so that all the different models can be serial connected. Please tightly snap the male and female connectors together.
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Connection of power supply: The power cable can be connected to the first or the last mat in the system. Before you connect the power supply, always make sure that all the mats are thoroughly connected
together first. The mats should be connected to a grounded electrical outlet.
- Fastening the mats: The mats are all equipped with eyes (holes) in each corner. This makes it possible to fasten the mats so they do not slide/move. Use stainless or galvanized screws suitable for the surface. If the surface is suitable, also double sided tape can be used as alternative way of fastening the mats. If the incline is more than 20 degrees, we recommend to use a jointing plate to avoid that the mats are sliding/moving.
Electrical Requirements
HotStep Snow Melting Heated Mats requires a GFCI Power Unit (sold separately). The GFCI Power Unit turns off the power if any of the electric current begins leaking to the ground. It is important to test the GFCI Power Unit each time the mat is installed and before use.
To power on and off a mat, you require a GFCI unit, which connects your mat to a 120V electrical outlet only. You can connect up to 13 Amps as a safe setting on a single GFCI. If your connected mats exceed 13 Amps you will have to split up the mats and add a second GFCI to plug in a separate outlet.
Here is all you need to do:
1. Locate the test and reset buttons on the Power Unit.
2. Plug the power cord into the outlet.
3. Alternately press the RESET and TEST buttons.
4. Each time you press the RESET button, the power light should turn on. If the light does not come on, make sure there is voltage at the outlet.
5. Each time you press the TEST button, the power light should turn off.
6. Leave the Power Unit with the light turned on. If the Power Unit does not operate as described above,do not use the mat. Call customer service at (800) 624-0041.
Operation & Storage
Power the HotStep Snow Melting Heated Mats whenever there is a threat of snow or ice. It is a good idea to unplug it when there is no snow or ice. Before storing the mat, clean it with mild soap and water, and place it in the original packaging. Store the mat indoors after the winter season. It is important to store the mats immediately after the winter ends. Failing to do so may expose the mats to excessive summer UV sunlight, harming the mats over time.
Surface Suitability
HotStep Snow Melting Mats are safe to place on a variety of surfaces, including:
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Concrete: Concrete surfaces, such as driveways or sidewalks, are highly suitable for these snow-melting mats due to their durability and ability to withstand heat.
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Asphalt: Asphalt surfaces also handle heat well, making them a common choice for snow-melting mat installation.
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Pavers: These snow melting mats can be safely placed under pavers if they are properly installed and provide good drainage.
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Stone or Tile: These snow melting mats are often used for patios or walkways, and these snow-melting mats can be installed beneath them with proper precautions.
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Wooden Decks: These snow-melting mats are compatible with wooden surfaces.
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Synthetic Surfaces (Composite Decking): These snow melting mats can be used on synthetic decking.
- Turf or Artificial Grass: These snow melting mats are okay to use on turf or artificial grass.
FAQs
1.) Is it safe to drive over the HotStep Snow Melting Heated Mats?
The HotStep Snow Melting Heated Mats Mats are very durable and will handle normal vehicular traffic in standard wintery environments. However, it is important to make sure the ground surfaces under the mats are clear of any sharp objects that could puncture the mat. If you have questions about the durability of our mats in your specific vehicular situation (i.e., many large trucks on a regular basis), please call HOTSTEP
technical support team at (800) 624-0041
2.) Why don’t the mats feel warm when I touch them?
When you turn on the mats, they may not feel
warm to the touch, but that’s ok. This is especially true when the air temperature outside is very cold. This is because the temperature of your hand is greater than the temperature of the mat. But if you are concerned, check to see that the light on the mat’s plug is illuminated. If it is, these mats are on and they’ll melt snow. If after the first snow fall it appears the mats are not melting snow, call our troubleshooting team at (800) 624-0041
3.) Are the power units waterproof?
The power unit on the mat is certified as “rainproof”, but it is not
submersible. Therefore, please be careful not to lay the mat’s power unit in an area that will collect a lot of water, such as a small ditch. While the mats themselves are very waterproof, the power unit, however, cannot be exposed to excessive amounts of water. It is the best to make sure the power unit hangs from the outlet in a vertical manner at least 18” from the ground. However, if the power unit will be laying in a horizontal manner on a sidewalk or ground, it is the best to wrap the power unit in a plastic bag to keep as much water away as possible. Do not make the plastic bag air tight, because it
is important to make sure any water that may get inside the bag has a way to exit. The purpose of the bag is to keep excessive amounts of water away
4.) Can I leave the mats on all the time?
Yes, you can run these mats all winter long without damaging
the mat, but your electricity bill will be higher than normal. It is the best to only use the mats when you are expecting snow. Alternatively, you can use any of our thermostat accessories to automate the operation of the mats. This will save your time and money and ensure that the mats turn on even if nobody is there to turn them on (like in the middle of the night)
5.) Can I place the mat on any surface?
Some surfaces (e.g., stamped concrete) have special coatings
or sealers that may get harmed if exposed to heat. If you have a surface that you think may have a special coating on it, you should put a thin heat blocker under the mats. This blocker can be in the form of plywood, outdoor carpet or turf, thin insulation, etc. Putting a heat blocker underneath the mats will force the heat upwards away from the sidewalk, preserving the special coating on the sidewalk.
6.) Are the snow melting mats safe to drive over, and can I park my vehicle on them?
HotStep Snow Melting Mats are designed to be durable enough to drive over, supporting the weight of cars, trucks, and SUVs. However, we do not recommend parking vehicles on the mats for extended periods, as prolonged contact with heated surfaces can potentially overheat tires and may damage the vehicle.
Before the next snowfall
Wake up to a clear path. No shovel. No salt.
Ships in 24 hours from BC, backed by a 30-day return. Not sure what your path needs? Send us the measurements and we will size it for you.