C182 pilot reported electrical systems overload in cruise. The pilot requested priority handling and diverted to make a precautionary landing.

Narrative

I had just departed ZZZ airport in route to ZZZ1 airport. I was climbing on my assigned route and was in IMC conditions. As the temperature was starting to approach 0 degrees C.; I selected the pitot heat on. Shortly after this; I noticed that my alternator was showing full discharge. I tried to communicate with the air traffic controller that I wanted to stop my climb and evaluate my situation with the alternator. I reduced my electrical loads to nothing but my transponder and number one radio/GPS. I was unable to communicate with the air traffic control facility I was speaking with. I squawked [priority] and started a turn to the east where I knew VFR conditions existed. I also descended to 5;000 feet; an appropriate IFR altitude for direction of flight; and down below any concerns of icing. Additionally; I had ADS-B in available to me on my iPad; and for Flight; and was able to ensure that I was not near any other traffic.While I was deviating and diverting; I learned that ZZZ2 airport had Maintenance on the field; so that is where I chose to divert to. Now that the situation was under control; I was able to use my cell phone to call the last ATC facility I had spoken to; which may have been clearance delivery from my departure airport. I explained my situation and advised him where I was going and what altitude I was at. The call kept dropping most likely because we were going from cell tower to cell tower. After a few phone calls; I was comfortable that everyone knew the situation and my destinations.Upon landing in ZZZ2; there was a message for me to contact ZZZ Center. I called and spoke with most likely a supervisor. I advised him that all was well and everyone was on the ground safely. The call ended shortly after that. I had the aircraft brought into the hanger and mechanics went through and started troubleshooting. It was discovered that the alternator circuit breaker had popped. I believe that was because I had put the pedal heat on; which probably pushed the electrical system to its limit. The mechanics and I were satisfied with what we found; and the most likely cause of the circuit breaker to pop. They gave me a logbook entries; and I continue to my destination.