Our industrial chiller maintenance experts have been installing and servicing outdoor ice rinks in Toronto and beyond for decades. As warmer winter temperatures increase, many municipalities have put in refrigeration systems to prolong outdoor skating seasons. As time goes on we have noticed some common “myths” ice rink owners believe regarding outdoor ice rink maintenance. These myths are accompanied by our suggestions for proper icerink maintenance.
Myth #1: Strongest ice can be made by filling the rink only with a few inches of water, even when the temperature is below freezing.
Even at the lowest temperatures, large amounts of standing water traps air during freezing. This results in a porous sheet of ice which will become weaker with rising temperatures and put a strain on the chilling systems.
Too much water can also create “shell ice” which, much like a frozen puddle, contains trapped air beneath it. Shell ice can be removed by scraping away the entire area and building.
Light sprays of water are the best way to create a solid ice surface. The water will freeze on contact with the surface. This is possible with properly functioning ice resurfacing equipment.
Myth #2 – When you use a chilling system to make an outdoor icerink, the timing and manner in which the water is applied will have little impact on the final result.
Water is the best source of water, but hoses are better than natural elements. The way and when you apply it will determine the strength and smoothness your ice surface.
Continuous hose movement is necessary to prevent ice from becoming indented and gully-like. The hose may seem like it is spraying cold water but in fact it is warmer than the frozen surface that it is touching. For smooth results (and to prevent the water from freezing in your hose), make sure you spray a thin mist consistently and evenly.
Water must not be used when snow is present to prevent any ripples or bumps. Be sure to remove any snow from the surface before spraying it.
Myth #3: Outdoor ice rinks require less maintenance and attention than indoor ice rinks.
This myth is also false. It is also false. Owners If residents want to enjoy the outdoor chilling system’s many benefits, they must be able to react quickly to changing conditions.
Properly maintaining ice calls for the knowledgeable use of ice-resurfacing equipment—vehicles that require special regulations to operate on local roadways.
Outdoor ice rinks can be more easily accessible than indoor ones, but they still require the same TSSA and WSIB, insurance, safety standards, and other requirements as indoor ones.
Proper Ice Maintenance Requires Professional Ice Rink Maintenance(*3*)
The charm and enjoyment of outdoor rinks is undeniable; but consideration, time, and the proper equipment are needed to effectively maintain and operate them.
Industrial Refrigerated Systems is available to assist you if you own or manage an outdoor icerink. Industrial refrigeration technicians can help with ice-rink installation, preseason inspections, as well as regular, ongoing maintenance of outdoor icerinks. Call us to arrange a consultation.
