When it comes to data center reliability, are you protecting all the systems that keep your facility operating?
Data centers are designed for continuous operation. From redundant power supplies and advanced cooling technologies to sophisticated monitoring systems, every component plays a role in maintaining uptime and protecting critical digital infrastructure.
But as temperatures drop, an often-overlooked risk can emerge outside the server room: freezing temperatures can affect the mechanical systems, piping and supporting infrastructure that keep a data center operational.
While significant attention is placed on protecting IT equipment, winter conditions can introduce vulnerabilities in cooling lines, drainage systems, rooftops, mechanical spaces and exposed piping.
For facility managers, mechanical engineers, and contractors, have all potential freeze points been identified and adequately protected?
- Are Your Cooling Systems Protected Beyond the Data Hall?
Cooling is one of the most critical functions in any data center. However, not every component operates within a temperature-controlled environment. Chilled water lines, cooling tower connections, make-up water piping and other mechanical components may be located outdoors or in spaces exposed to freezing temperatures.
A frozen line can restrict flow, damage equipment or compromise cooling capacity, potentially affecting operations. Even facilities using glycol-based cooling systems may have supporting water lines that require additional protection.
Properly designed electric trace heating systems can help maintain appropriate temperatures in vulnerable piping and supporting components, reducing the risk of freezing during extreme winter conditions.
- Could Drainage Systems Become an Unexpected Source of Downtime?
Drainage systems rarely receive the same attention as power and cooling infrastructure. Yet condensate drains, equipment discharge lines and roof drainage systems can become vulnerable when temperatures fall below freezing.
A frozen drain can cause water to back up, overflow or accumulate near sensitive equipment and building infrastructure. Facility managers should consider whether exposed drainage lines, discharge points and roof drains are adequately protected.
Freeze protection should address more than the pipes supplying water. It should also consider where that water needs to go.
- What About Roofs, Gutters and Building Drainage?
Data center rooftops often accommodate extensive mechanical infrastructure, creating complex environments where snow accumulation and ice formation can introduce additional risks.
Ice dams, blocked gutters and frozen downspouts can prevent proper drainage, potentially leading to water infiltration and damage to critical building systems.
Drexan’s Roof and Gutter De-Icing System is designed to help maintain drainage pathways and reduce ice buildup in suitable applications. When properly designed and installed, roof and gutter de-icing systems can become an important part of a facility’s winter protection strategy.
- Are Mechanical Spaces and Exposed Piping Really Protected?
One common assumption is that piping located inside a building is automatically protected from freezing. Unfortunately, that isn’t always the case.
Mechanical rooms with outside air ventilation, utility spaces near exterior walls, loading docks and unheated service corridors can experience unexpected temperature drops. Similarly, exposed domestic water lines, equipment supply piping and certain fire protection systems may require additional freeze protection.
Has your facility evaluated actual winter conditions in these areas rather than assuming they remain protected? A comprehensive trace heating design considers environmental exposure, pipe materials, insulation and the temperatures that must be maintained.
For fire protection applications, system design must also account for applicable codes, certifications and installation requirements.
- Is Your Trace Heating System Designed for Long-Term Reliability?
Identifying potential freeze points is only the first step. The next question is whether the protection system itself is designed to deliver dependable performance.
A modern trace heating system includes more than heating cable. Connection systems, controls, insulation, electrical protection, documentation and technical support all contribute to overall reliability.
Our self-regulating heating cable technologies, innovative connection systems, engineering resources and experienced technical support team help customers design, install and maintain dependable freeze protection systems.
With tight heating cable power output tolerances of -0/+10%, appropriately certified solutions and a commitment to simplifying installation, Drexan continues to redefine expectations for trace heating performance and customer support.
Freeze Protection Redefined. Backed by Drexan.
Drexan Energy Systems works with engineers, contractors and facility managers to develop dependable trace heating solutions for demanding industrial and commercial environments.
From application-specific system design and innovative connection technologies to comprehensive engineering documentation and responsive technical support, we’re committed to helping customers protect critical infrastructure with confidence.
Have questions about freeze protection for your data center?
Connect with Drexan’s technical specialists to discuss your application and explore the right Data Center trace heating solution for your project.
Contact our technical support team at 1-800-663-6873.
Trace Heating Redefined.