A51 -- Snow Melting and Freeze Protection (SI)

The practicality of melting snow or ice by supplying heat to the exposed surface has been demonstrated in many installations, including sidewalks, roadways, ramps, bridges, access ramps, and parking spaces for the handicapped, and runways. Melting eliminates the need for snow removal by chemical means, provides greater safety for pedestrians and vehicles, and reduces the labor and cost of slush removal. Other advantages include eliminating piled snow, reducing liability, and reducing health risks of manual and mechanized shoveling. This chapter covers three types of snow-melting and freeze protection systems: (1) hot fluid circulated in slab-embedded pipes (hydronic), (2) embedded electric heater cables or wire, and (3) overhead high-intensity infrared radiant heating. Detailed information about slab heating can be found in Chapter 6 of the 2008 ASHRAE Handbook--HVAC Systems and Equipment. More information about infrared heating can be found in Chapter 15 of the same volume.

Chapter Table of Contents

Snow-Melting Heat Flux Requirement

Slab Design

Control

Hydronic System Design

Electric System Design

Freeze Protection Systems

Citation: 2011 ASHRAE Handbook -- HVAC Applications: Chapter 51, Snow Melting and Freeze Protection



Product Code(s): D-A512011SI