Ice arenas are subject to multiple concurrent gas hazards. The reference CETCI application note recommends monitoring ammoniain the mechanical chiller room, CO and NO₂ from ice resurfacer exhaust emissions, and propane or methane risks depending on the fuel utilised in vehicle parking/maintenance areas, using dedicated sensor locations.
As physical properties and sources of gases differ, sensor technology, mounting height, and alarm philosophy must be adapted accordingly.
Where Do Gas Hazards Originate in an Ice Arena?
According to the source documentation, ammonia used as the refrigerant in the mechanical refrigeration plant represents a major toxic and corrosive hazard. Meanwhile, petrol-, propane-, natural gas-, or diesel-powered equipment operating on the ice surface can generate CO and/or NO₂.
In maintenance bays housing propane-powered ice resurfacers, the tendency of heavy gas to pool near floor level must be addressed; where natural gas-powered vehicles are operated, the upward migration of methane toward the ceiling must be accounted for.
Where Should the Ammonia Sensor be Positioned?
In the reference system, the LPT-A-NH₃ transmitter is positioned close to the ceiling in the chiller room—typically monitoring approximately 12 inches below ceiling height—as ammonia is lighter than air. A remote audio/visual sounder inside the room and an external controller displaying gas concentrations outside the access door are recommended.
Monitoring CO and NO₂ Over the Ice Surface
A dual-channel LPT-P-TCO-NO₂B transmitter is positioned in the reference application at a location representative of the ice sheet, such as above the penalty box or scorekeeper's bench. The objective is to continuously monitor CO/NO₂ levels generated by ice resurfacers and other internal combustion equipment.
Different Mounting Heights for Propane and Methane
The source documentation recommends mounting the propane sensor approximately 6 inches above floor level, where possible, recommends placement at a low level / near drainage. If the vehicle is fuelled by natural gas, the methane sensor is positioned close to the ceiling. This example demonstrates that the "all gas sensors are installed at the same height" approach is incorrect.
Role of the QCC Controller
The QCC accepts analogue 4–20 mA and/or Modbus RS-485 inputs, consolidating different transmitters into a single point. In the source application, the controller is the core of alarm, ventilation, remote audible/visual warning, and manual chiller shutdown scenarios.
Example System Architecture
| Area | Gas | Example device / approach | Positioning logic |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chiller plant room | NH₃ | LPT-A-NH₃ | Close to ceiling |
| Ice surface | CO + NO₂ | LPT-P dual-channel | Point representing the ice area |
| Maintenance/vehicle room | C₃H₈ | CXT flameproof | Close to floor |
| Maintenance/vehicle room | CH₄ | CXT flameproof | Close to ceiling |
| Outside entrance | Multi-channel | QCC / QCC-RDM | Viewing levels prior to entry |
Which Gas Detectors Should Be Preferred for Ice Rinks?
In this application, due to multiple risks, the fixed system must be zoned on a sensor basis. Whilst the CETCI LPT series provides sensor options for gases such as NH₃, CO, and NO₂, an appropriately certified transmitter solution must be evaluated separately in combustible gas areas. The controller enables centralised management of alarm, ventilation, and equipment shutdown scenarios from a single point. View CETCI Fixed Gas Detectors.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why are ammonia detectors used in ice rinks?
Ammonia is used as a refrigerant in some ice refrigeration systems. The reference document recommends continuous NH₃ monitoring in the mechanical chiller plant room.
Where do CO and NO₂ originate in an ice rink?
Exhaust from ice resurfacing vehicles and other fuel-powered equipment can increase CO and NO₂ levels.
Why is the propane sensor installed close to the floor?
Propane is heavier than air and tends to accumulate in low-lying areas; the source application exemplifies a height of approximately 6 inches above floor level.
Why should the methane sensor be close to the ceiling?
Since methane is lighter than air, it tends to accumulate in upper areas.
Is it possible to view the gas level before entering the room?
In the source architecture, the QCC or QCC-RDM is mounted outside the entrance, allowing personnel to view levels before entering.
Can the same controller monitor NH3, CO, NO2, and combustible gases together?
The source QCC architecture is designed to consolidate different analogue/digital transmitters into a single controller; the number of channels and inputs must be verified according to project configuration.
Reference and Technical Note
The application architecture and model-specific technical details in this article have been compiled from an application document provided by Critical Environment Technologies Canada Inc. . As source materials may be superseded, current product codes, certificates, measuring ranges, and local regulations must be independently verified prior to project design or procurement.
Author: NOVEL Technical Team
Publication date: 7 September 2026