Issue link: https://read.uberflip.com/i/1527035
USICERINKS.COM SEPTEMBER.OCTOBER.2024 / 37 OK, so I didn't exactly invent that phrase. But is that really the question? The industry is very passionate about the topic of cold water flooding. In fact, I'm sure I'll get some comments from all camps about how successful (or not) switching from hot water flooding to "cold" (tap water temperature) water flooding has been for their facility. Switching from hot to cold will probably even be a source of great debate within your own organization. Left unchecked, the result will be the appearance of the proverbial three monkeys: One group will be certain that they can't see it working. The next will say they haven't really heard anything so it must be working. The third will state they can't say if it will work or not. These are the no, yes and don't-know groups. Unfortunately, a lack of clear evidence will allow this debate to swirl around endlessly, perhaps until the gloves hit the ice. Since there are probably better things to argue about, let's go back to the initial question: To heat or not to heat. It's logical that the quality of the ice is something held very dearly by icemakers. After all, it's ultimately the saleable product in any ice rink. Ice building and maintenance training courses are offered annually and regionally emphasizing the importance; however, the definition of quality ice will vary based on the organization. That is the first issue to recognize. We are talking about something that is subjective, and satisfaction will highly depend upon the particular organization. Everyone loves high-quality ice, but delivering the best possible product comes at a price. It is crucial that the floodwater is as pure as possible to maintain the quality of the ice produced. Any water impurities adversely impact the ice-making process. A critical factor to be considered is the temperature of the floodwater itself. Typically, resurfacing water is between 140°F and 160°F. An increasing number of organizations are using 120°F. Whatever the temperature you are using for resurfacing (or flood) water, the underlying question of to heat or not persists. In today's economy, cost is always a major factor in operating decisions. How does one supply a quality product and service while balancing the budget? There are several factors to consider. The cost of heating the floodwater combined with the cost of freezing the hot water again does add up. Depending on the fuel source, an arena can be facing significantly high numbers. In a busy ice rink using oil, propane or electricity to heat floodwater, hot water flooding can cost up to $30 per day more per pad than cold water flooding. Lower- to moderate-traffic arenas using oil, propane or electricity fare slightly better but also pay upwards of $20 a day more by using hot water flooding as opposed to cold water flooding. Natural gas users have an advantage with lower fuel costs; however, they still pay an extra $7-$12 per day for hot water flooding, depending upon the facility activity level. This daily cost includes the expense of re-cooling b y I A N B . S T O R E Y, P. E N G . o heat or not to heat: That is the question. T