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- High-quality ice melt is effective in temperatures well below zero, melts ice quickly while keeping it from refreezing, and won't do damage to your property.
- The 96% Pure Calcium Chloride Snow & Ice Melt Pellets by FDC are the best ice melt because they melt ice in temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit, and you cna use the pellets to do other things, too.
Shovels, snow blowers, and plows are all effective tools for removing snow. But, despite your best efforts, ice finds a way of creeping onto your driveway and sidewalks. In many municipalities, you are required to keep your walks free of ice. Removing ice can also protect you from potential slip-and-fall lawsuits. Therefore, if you live in a climate where temperatures regularly dip below freezing in the winter months, snow and ice melters are a must.
There are essentially six different salts that are used as ice melt. Each has their pros and cons. Most brands use a combination of two or more salts. The right type of salt will depend on the climate you live in and how you plan on using it. Here are the main types of salts and who they are good for:
- Calcium chloride (CaCl2) is one of the most popular options because it works quickly in temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit. The problem is it can damage plants and grass if you use too much.
- Magnesium chloride is considered environmentally friendly and better than most for use around pets. It lowers water's freezing point to -13 degrees Fahrenheit. The downside is that it could damage your concrete, asphalt, and plants.
- Calcium magnesium acetate (CMA) is less corrosive than salts with chloride, but it's only effective in temperatures of 20 degrees Fahrenheit and above.
- Rock salt is great because it's inexpensive, but it's problematic in a number of ways: It's damaging to just about any surface, lethal if pets ingest it, and it doesn't work in low temps.
- Potassium chloride is considered safer for pets but bad for plants and grass, and it only works in temperatures 25 degrees Fahrenheit and above.
- Urea/carbonyl diamide is probably the safest option for pets and the environment, but it isn't very effective when used for deicing.
Based on our research, calcium chloride is the best salt overall, though it's a good idea to mix things up over the course of the season. Also, make a point of only applying the salt in the precise spots where you want to remove snow and ice. After it is done doing the job, remove any salt that is left over. This will minimize harmful runoff and dangers to pets and kids.
While researching the best snow and ice melt, we read through countless ratings and reviews from buyers and experts. Our guide features melters that have a track record of performance, quality, and versatility.
Here are the best snow and ice melters you can buy:
- Best ice melt overall: 96% Pure Calcium Chloride Snow & Ice Melt Pellets by FDC
- Best colorful ice melt: Blue Heat Snow and Ice Melter
- Best affordable ice melt: Snow Joe Professional Strength Calcium Chloride Pellets
- Best ice melt for long-lasting coverage: Pellets of Fire Snow & Ice Melter
- Best environmentally-friendly ice melt: Natural Rapport Pet and Kid Friendly Ice Melt
Read on in the slides below to check out our top picks.
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