ASE DS-Series Rain & Snow Sensor Controllers (Snow Melt, Roof/Gutter Deicing, Hydronic & Antenna Apps)
Posted by AJ Phillips on 10th Feb 2026
If you’ve ever dealt with nuisance snow-melt triggers, under-melted walkways that refreeze, or “disposable” sensors that fail and get tossed, the ASE DS-Series is built to solve those real-world problems. These rain/snow sensor controllers combine rugged outdoor construction with field-selectable configuration and serviceable sensor components—so you can tune performance, reduce callbacks, and keep systems running season after season.
Shop DS-Series & related products: Rain & Snow Sensors
We’re based in West Palm Beach, Florida (yes—Florida), and snow-melt controls are still one of our most requested specialty categories. We stock DS-Series items and can ship fast. If you need help selecting a model or wiring to your application, we can help you get it right the first time.
Why contractors spec the ASE DS-Series
- Outdoor-ready construction: NEMA 3R enclosure for exterior installs and harsh weather.
- Wide operating temperature electronics: designed for extreme cold and heat common to outdoor control boxes.
- One platform, many jobs: snow melt, roof/gutter deicing, hydronic low-voltage systems, and specialty antenna/VSAT use cases.
- Field-selectable settings: tune trigger temperature, precipitation sensitivity, and “Delay Off” drying cycle to match local conditions.
- Repairable approach: replace the precipitation sensor/grid instead of scrapping the whole controller.
In short: the DS-Series is built to be set up correctly, adjusted intelligently, and kept in service for the long haul.
How DS-Series rain/snow detection works (and why “Delay Off” matters)
DS-Series units use a combination of temperature sensing and a heated precipitation sensor. When moisture bridges the sensor grid, the controller detects precipitation and then uses a heater to evaporate moisture and clear the sensor. The onboard logic helps you determine whether conditions are likely rain or snow based on temperature and configuration.
One of the biggest practical advantages is the Delay Off drying cycle. After the last precipitation event clears, the controller can keep the system running long enough to dry the surface— helping reduce the risk of dangerous refreeze. This is the difference between a system that merely “melts” and a system that melts and finishes clean.
Which DS model should you choose?
Start with two questions:
- Do you need line voltage (100–277VAC) or low voltage (24VAC/DC class)?
- Do you want an integral precipitation sensor (on the enclosure) or a remote sensor on a cable?
Quick model guide (popular picks we stock)
| Model | Best for | Sensor style | Power class |
|---|---|---|---|
| DS-2C | Cost-effective, versatile snow-melt controller for many pavement applications | Integral sensor | Line voltage (100–277VAC) |
| DS-224C | Hydronic/low-voltage snow melt where 24VAC/DC-style power is required | Integral sensor | Low voltage (22–28VAC/DC) |
| DS-8C | Roof/gutter deicing or remote-mount precipitation sensing needs | Remote sensor (10' cable) | Line voltage (100–277VAC) |
| DS-824C | Low-voltage roof/gutter deicing & hydronic applications needing a remote sensor | Remote sensor (10' cable) | Low voltage (22–28VAC/DC) |
| DS-5C | Higher-capacity loads where two relays (higher load handling) are helpful | Integral sensor | Line voltage (100–277VAC) |
| DS-9C | Higher-capacity + remote sensor applications (roof/gutter/tower/deice use cases) | Remote sensor (10' cable) | Line voltage (100–277VAC) |
| DS-4C | “Antenna-optimized” applications needing profile-based control behavior | Integral sensor | Line voltage (100–277VAC) |
| DS-7C | “Antenna-optimized” + remote precipitation sensing (profiles can support deice + rain diversion logic) | Remote sensor (10' cable) | Line voltage (100–277VAC) |
Not sure where to start? If you want the “classic” all-around snow-melt controller, start with DS-2C. If you need 24V power, look at DS-224C. If you need a remote precipitation sensor for gutters/downspouts/antenna booms, look at DS-8C or DS-824C.
Serviceable sensor design: replace parts, not the whole controller
A major reason the DS-Series is such a strong long-term value is the ability to service the precipitation sensing components. When a sensor grid gets worn from years of exposure, you can often restore “like new” operation with a replacement assembly.
- Integral precipitation sensor/grid replacements: MG-5
- Remote precipitation sensor replacements: MG-6
- Need to extend a remote precipitation sensor cable? Use the proper extension approach with EX-50 (best practice: avoid “random wire splices” that can introduce leakage and erratic triggering).
- Remote monitoring/control: add a panel like CDP-2 and the appropriate interconnect cabling (example: CS-1).
Cross-reference: Danfoss part numbers & DS-Series equivalents
If you landed here searching by part number, you’re not alone. We frequently help customers who search by Danfoss SKUs (especially in maintenance and replacement scenarios). Here are common “search equivalents” that map to the DS platform. Always confirm voltage, load, and sensor style before ordering.
| Searching for… | Often matches DS-Series model | Shop link |
|---|---|---|
| Danfoss 088L3044 | DS-2C (integral sensor, line voltage) | Shop DS-2C |
| Danfoss 088L3046 | DS-5C (integral sensor, higher capacity) | Shop DS-5C |
| Danfoss 088L3045 | DS-8C (remote sensor, line voltage) | Shop DS-8C |
| Danfoss 088L3041 | DS-224C class (integral sensor, low voltage / hydronic) | Shop DS-224C |
| Danfoss 088L3042 | DS-824C class (remote sensor, low voltage / hydronic) | Shop DS-824C |
Want to browse all available options (including accessories, replacement grids, and cabling)? Visit our category page: Rain & Snow Sensors.
Manufacturer resources (ASE)
FAQ
What’s the difference between a “sensor” and a “controller” mode?
In many DS configurations, “controller” behavior generally means a longer Delay Off drying cycle so the system can finish the job and dry the surface. “Sensor” behavior is often used when the DS unit is triggering an external control panel or BAS input and you don’t want long post-event runtimes.
Do DS-Series units work for both snow and rain?
Yes. The DS-Series can be configured for multiple operating modes depending on the model and application, including snow-focused or precipitation-focused control. The temperature setting and configuration determine how the controller interprets precipitation conditions.
Integral vs. remote precipitation sensor: which is better?
Choose integral when you can mount the enclosure where the sensor has a clean exposure to precipitation. Choose remote when the best sensing location is in a gutter/downspout or on an antenna boom, and you want the control enclosure mounted elsewhere.
Can I extend the remote precipitation sensor cable?
For reliable operation, use the proper extension method/kit designed for the system. If you need extension hardware, start with the EX-50.
What maintenance should I plan for?
Outdoor precipitation sensing elements can accumulate mineral deposits and wear over time. Periodic cleaning helps, and when replacement is needed you can typically swap the sensing assembly rather than replacing the full controller: MG-5 (integral) or MG-6 (remote).
Do you stock these, and can you ship quickly?
Yes—Zot Supply stocks DS-Series sensors/controllers and common replacement parts. If you’re trying to solve a downtime issue, contact us with the model number, voltage, and application and we’ll help you match the right unit.
Ready to order or need help selecting the correct DS model?
Browse everything here: Rain & Snow Sensors —or start with these best-sellers: DS-2C, DS-8C, DS-224C.