Automatic Snow and Ice Melting System Control with Integral Ground Fault Equipment Protection
Snow Switch Model GF Pro
Features & Benefits
- Automatic snow and ice melting control minimizes operating costs
- Rated for up to 30 amp resistive loads
- Integral 30mA of Ground Fault Equipment Protection (GFEP)
- Weather-resistant NEMA 4X enclosure
- UL Listed for Temperature Regulating Equipment
- Adjustable Hold-On timer continues heater operation after snow and ice stop to ensure complete melting
- Dual sensor capability to meet site performance requirements
- Automatic and manual-override operator controls for changing environmental conditions
- Optional remote control operation for added convenience
Description
The Snow Switch Model GF Pro is an automatic snow and ice melting control system. Utilizing standard Environmental Technology snow and ice sensors (sold separately), applications include snow and ice detection and melting for pavement, sidewalks, loading docks, roofs, gutters and downspouts in commercial and residential environments.
The GF Pro interfaces with up to two standard Environmental Technology sensors to meet site requirements. The CIT–1 sensor may be roof or mast mounted and can be paired with the GIT–1 sensor for gutter applications or the SIT–6E sensor for pavement applications. All three sensors detect precipitation as snow at temperatures below 38°F (3.3°C), saving energy and ensuring thorough snow and ice melting. Since 1968, these sensors have been the industry’s most versatile and cost-effective automatic snow melting control sensors.
The GF Pro features built-in 30mA, self-testing Ground Fault Equipment Protection (GFEP), digitally filtered to minimize false tripping. A ground fault condition must be manually reset using the Test/Reset switch before heater operation can continue.
The GF Pro uses both automatic and manual-override operator controls. The adjustable Hold-On timer continues heater operations up to 8 hours after snow or ice conditions end to ensure complete melting. The Heater Cycle control button allows manual initiation or cancelation of a heating cycle. The optional RCU–4 remote control unit can be located for convenient monitoring and control. These flexible control options provide complete snow melting and water evaporation at a low operating cost.
The GF Pro weighs only 3 pounds and measures 5 1/2” (L) x 8 1/8” (W) x 4 3/8” (H). Comprehensive instruction manuals simplify installation and operation. These products are also supported by Environmental Technology Technical Support.
The GF Pro is a capable snow and ice control for medium-sized applications whose features and power requirements do not require an APS or EUR Series control panel.
Specifications
| General | |
| Area of use | Nonhazardous locations |
| Approvals | UL Listed, Type 873 Temperature Regulating Equipment |
| Enclosure | |
| Protection | IP 66, NEMA 4X |
| Cover attachment | Polycarbonate with machine screws |
| Entries | 2 x 3/4" entry (bottom right) for NEC Class 2 connections |
| 3 x 1-1/16" entries (bottom left) for supply and load power | |
| Material | Polycarbonate |
| Mounting | Wall mount |
| Dimensions | 5 1/2" (L) x 8 1/8" (W) x 4 3/8" (H) / 140mm (L) x 207mm (W) x 112mm (H) |
| Control | |
| Supply voltage | 200 - 277 VAC; 50/60 Hz |
| Load | 30 amp maximum resistive |
| Contact type | 2 Form A |
| Weight | 3 Pounds (not including sensors) |
| Maximum ratings | Voltage: 277 VAC |
| Current: 30 amps | |
| Heater Hold-On timer | 0 to 8 hours; actuated by snow stopping or toggle switch |
| System test | Switch toggles heater contact on and off. If temperature exceeds optional high limit thermistor (45°F), heater shuts off to reduce costs and prevent damage. |
| Front Panel Interface | |
| Status indicator | SUPPLY (green): Power on |
| HEAT (yellow): Heating cycle in progress | |
| SNOW (yellow): Sensor(s) detect snow | |
| GFEP (red): Ground Fault condition | |
| GFEP (red, flashing): Failed | |
| GFEP (red, rapid flashing): GFEP test in progress | |
| Snow/Ice Sensors | |
| Maximum quantity | 2 ETI sensors |
| Circuit type | NEC Class 2 |
| Lead length | Up to 500' (152m) using 18 AWG 3-wire jacketed cable |
| Up to 2,000' (609m) using 12 AWG 3-wire jacketed cable | |
| Wire and Cable Ratings | |
| Power cable | Size for heater load (30 amps maximum) |
| Sensor wiring | #18 AWG jacketed, 3-conductor |
| Heater cable | Size for maximum heater load |
| Remote wiring | #22 AWG jacketed, 2-conductor |
| Ground Fault Equipment Protection (GFEP) | |
| Set point | 30mA |
| Automatic self-test | GFEP verified before contactors operate; GFEP runs on start-up and every 24 hours |
| Manual Test/Reset | Test/Reset switch on front panel |
| Environmental | |
| Operating temperature | -31°F to 130°F (-35°C to 55°C) |
| Storage temperature | -67°F to 167°F (-55°C to 75°C) |


