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May / June 2018

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50 / MAY.JUNE.2018 USICERINKS.COM by CRAIG PETERSEN, CIRM SAFETY FIRST! It's the rink manager's credo. Out of concern for our facility, employees and customers, we have to adhere to that. And while there are many facets and components to consider when it comes to the 'safety first' mantra, one that often comes into question is bleacher heat maintenance. Bleacher heat, while considered a luxury by some, is designed to keep your customers comfortable. In order for it to achieve that goal, maintenance, like so many elements in an ice facility, is required. But more often than not it tends to be one of those 'out of sight, out of mind' things the majority of the year, and many of us probably look at bleacher heaters as something that works against our utility bill. Heck, some would probably much rather shut the breaker off than operate them at all. We're here to change that opinion. Think of bleacher heaters as a valuable tool for customer satisfaction. Plus, when properly used and maintained, these heaters can reduce the heat load on the ice surface compared to other facility heating options. So where do you start? When it comes to maintaining your radiant tube heaters, there are several things you should have your experienced and licensed company look at annually, depending on usage. 1. Burner, fan motor and gas pressure regulator settings 2. Heat exchanger integrity inspection 3. Venting, insulation and condensation drain (if applicable) integrity inspection 4. Proper vent sizing application and material verification 5. Mounting and structural integrity Other things to consider in the important bleacher heater maintenance: LOCATION In many facilities, bleacher heaters are not easily accessible. Make sure you plan ahead and give your service company plenty of time if they need to access your heaters from the ice surface. CARBON MONOXIDE Remember that an improperly burning or compromised venting of radiant heater can cause increased carbon monoxide levels in your facility. Yet another reason to make sure you take caution and care of your bleacher heaters. J Craig Petersen is the Director of Operations at Mullett Ice Center in Hartland, Wisconsin. Seat Heat The importance of bleacher heater maintenance HOW To Bleacher Heater Maintenance Give plenty of time and space for your maintenance crew to access and work on your bleacher heaters safely. PHOTOS: COURTESY OF RINK ARCHIVES ,

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