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KEEP Refrigerated Refrigerated glycol should be taken and sent to a reputable lab for analysis. The lab analysis should identify the specific gravity, pH and corrosion inhibitor level of the solution. In addition, the analysis should include recommended adjustments to the brine/ glycol solution. Condenser inspection must not be for- gotten during the shutdown period. On an evaporative condenser, coils should be checked for scale buildup, the condenser water tank drained and thoroughly flushed, and the spray nozzle system inspected for plugged or damaged nozzles and any prob- lem nozzles replaced. In addition, all bear- ings and other moving parts require proper lubrication as stipulated by the manufac- turer, including the condenser shaft. V belts should be inspected and replaced if neces- sary. Any filter used on the water circulating system should be cleaned or replaced, and all water valve stems should be greased. Water-cooled condensers must have the heads removed and the tubes cleaned, while air-cooled condensers should be power- washed and fins should be checked. With this work completed, the refrigeration sys- tem will be ready for start-up. Start-up Checks and Maintenance A properly qualified person must start the refrigeration plant. In many arenas today, a refrigeration contractor does this. Prior to turning on any equipment, a number of procedures must be revisited. All valves that were previously closed and tagged must be reopened, including the water supply lines to the compressors and condenser. The proper level of primary refrigerant in the chiller must be confirmed. The correct oil level in each compressor's crankcase must be verified before it is start- ed and then rechecked once the compressor is running. V belts on the compressors and condenser fan motors should be examined for tightness and alignment. Any fuses removed from electrical panels as part of the shutdown process must be reinstalled, and all necessary electrical switches turned back on. Also, remember to check the bat- tery inside any computerized controls and replace it if necessary. Prior to turning on the brine/glycol pump, the seal and coupling should be checked and the shaft examined for tight- ness and alignment. Once the pump is switched on, the brine/glycol level should be rechecked at the expansion tank and seals on the pump monitored for leaks. When the condenser pump is operated, the water nozzles must be checked again and the pump seal monitored for leaks. When all compressors and pumps are switched on and running, operating pressures and tem- peratures will begin to change. These must be observed regularly to confirm proper operating conditions. Carefully listen for any unusual noises that will indicate a prob- lem, and follow up as necessary. Checks and Maintenance After Start-up Once the refrigeration plant has been successfully started, every operator is responsible on his/her shift for ensuring that the plant remains in good operat- ing condition. This requires a number of checks that must be done daily on a per shift basis, including: proper oil level in the compressors, liquid leaks in the system, adequate brine/glycol levels, proper refrigerant level at the chiller, plus monitoring all operating pressures and temperatures. Also, the condenser water tank must be examined for proper level and the buildup of any dirt or scale. As a result of the procedures listed above, some periodic maintenance may be required throughout the operating season. This may include such things as readjusting V belt tension, adding or draining oil (depend- ing on primary refrigerant used), replacing worn couplings on pumps, adding brine/ glycol and dealing with any electrical prob- lems such as blown fuses, broken switches or faulty operating controls. It should be noted again that a properly trained and qualified person should perform any main- tenance done on the refrigeration plant. One of the operator's most important tasks after start-up is that of maintaining an accurate logbook that records all operat- ing conditions in the refrigeration plant plus any work done on the equipment. In many jurisdictions this is law. Please check all codes or standards that are applicable to your own arena so that you, as a supervisor or operator, clearly understand the respon- sibilities with respect to the logbook. The successful operation of a refrig- eration system in today's arenas relies on a maintenance program that includes adequate funding for ongoing equipment maintenance or replacement, plus a part- nership between owners, properly trained staff, equipment suppliers and contractors who are committed to keeping the system well maintained. This type of refrigera- tion system maintenance program will go a long way to contributing to a cost effec- tive, trouble-free season, which should be the goal of every arena. J 44 / MAY.JUNE.2021 USICERINKS.COM , Observe operating pressures and temperatures regularly, and listen for any irregular noises to ensure proper performance.