Why Your Facility Needs a Custom CO₂ Refrigeration Plant Log Book

Why Your Facility Needs a Custom CO₂ Refrigeration Plant Log Book
As more arenas, cold storage facilities, and industrial sites transition from traditional refrigerants to CO₂ (R744) refrigeration systems, operators are discovering that this technology comes with its own maintenance requirements and documentation standards. A properly designed CO₂ Refrigeration Plant Log Book is no longer optional — it’s an essential tool for safety, compliance, and efficient operations.
Custom log books allow your team to track the exact equipment, pressures, temperatures, and maintenance routines unique to your system. Here’s why choosing a custom CO₂ refrigeration log book is one of the best decisions you can make for your facility.

Black casebound cover for a custom CO2 Refrigeration Log Book.


The Rise of CORefrigeration Systems

CO₂ refrigeration systems are rapidly becoming the preferred choice for many facilities because they are:
  • Environmentally friendly (very low GWP compared to traditional refrigerants)
  • Highly efficient, especially in colder climates
  • Safe and stable when properly maintained
  • Increasingly common in arenas, supermarkets, and industrial refrigeration
With more facilities adopting CO₂ technology, operators need documentation tools that match the unique behaviour and monitoring requirements of these systems.

Why Documentation Matters for CO₂ Systems

Consistent logging is the backbone of a well-run refrigeration plant. For CO₂ systems specifically, documentation supports:

Compliance & audits

Regulators and insurers increasingly expect detailed maintenance records to demonstrate due diligence.

Early detection of system issues

Tracking trends in pressure, oil levels, and temperatures helps identify problems before they cause downtime.

Operator training

A custom log book provides structure for new staff, ensuring they follow the correct procedures from day one.

Equipment lifespan & efficiency

Well-documented systems are easier to troubleshoot and maintain, extending component life and improving energy performance.

A sample page from a custom CO2 Refrigeration Log Book

What Should Be Logged Daily in a CO₂ Refrigeration Plant

Every plant is different, but the following items are commonly included in daily logs:
  • High-side system pressure
  • Low-side system pressure
  • Oil levels
  • Compressor suction and discharge temperatures
  • Brine temperatures
  • Ice surface temperature (for arenas)
  • Ambient machine room temperature
  • CO₂ leak detector tests
  • Alarm panel status
  • Compressor run hours
  • Visual inspection notes (frost build-up, unusual noise, leaks)
These daily logs create a baseline — making irregularities easier to catch immediately.

Weekly & Monthly Logs

In addition to daily entries, operators typically track:

Weekly:

  • Sensor and alarm tests
  • Defrost cycle verification
  • Vibration or noise checks
  • Drain and piping inspections

Monthly:

  • Oil filter or separator checks
  • Calibration of sensors
  • Valve inspections
  • Motor amperage readings
  • Safety equipment checks (PPE, ventilation, eyewash stations)
Custom log books allow you to tailor these checklists to your exact model and maintenance cycle.

Why Custom Log Books Are Better Than Generic Templates

No two CO₂ refrigeration systems operate the same way. A generic log sheet might capture the basics — but a custom log book ensures your operators record exactly what matters for your plant.
A customized CO₂ log book allows you to include:
  • Your equipment list (compressors, pumps, valves, detectors, etc.)
  • Site-specific checklists
  • Seasonal startup/shutdown procedures
  • Correct pressure and temperature ranges for your system
  • Your branding and internal SOPs
  • Unique page layouts that suit your operators' workflow
Your team doesn’t have to adapt to a generic layout — the book adapts to you.

Sample inside page spread from a custom CO2 Refrigeration Log Book

How Custom Logs Improve Safety

CO₂ systems are extremely safe when monitored properly — but they operate at higher pressures than many traditional refrigeration systems. A custom log book helps keep your facility safe by:
  • Documenting leak checks and alarm tests
  • Tracking pressure trends to catch abnormalities early
  • Ensuring consistent safety system inspections
  • Supporting emergency response procedures
  • Providing clear written protocols for new and seasonal staff
In an emergency or equipment malfunction, detailed log entries become invaluable.

Durable Log Books Built for Mechanical Rooms

CO₂ refrigeration plants are high-moisture, high-traffic environments. Your log books must withstand:
  • Cold temperatures
  • Mechanical room humidity
  • Frequent handling
  • Long-term storage and audits
Our custom log books are available in durable wire-bound or casebound formats, designed specifically for industrial and arena environments.

How to Get Started With Your Custom CO₂ Refrigeration Plant Log Book

Getting your custom book is simple:
  1. Fill out our Custom Log Book Form
  2. Upload any sample pages or reference documents
  3. Our design team will create professional proofs
  4. You can revise and approve the layout
  5. Once approved, we print and ship directly to your facility
You only move to production once you're 100% satisfied.

A sample page from a custom CO2 Refrigeration Log Book

Ready to Create Your Custom CO₂ Refrigeration Plant Log Book?

We’ve been producing custom maintenance log books for arenas, municipalities, industrial facilities, and refrigeration specialists for over 40 years. If your facility is transitioning to CO₂ — or you’re looking to improve safety and documentation — we can help you build the perfect log book.
Just reach out to LBU@logbooks.com, or complete our Custom Log Book Form to get started.