How to Keep a Backyard Hockey Rink Cold

For people in colder climates with relatively flat backyards, making a hockey rink can be a blast. Ice on these rinks must be kept adequately frozen for the best skating experience and to maintain safety. Keeping an ice rink cold is largely a function of the weather, but there are steps you can take after the rink is built to help the process of keeping a smooth and solid ice surface throughout the winter.

Things You'll Need

  • Faucet-to-hose adapter
  • 100-foot hose
  • Spray nozzle
  • Large towel
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Instructions

    • 1

      Ensure you have at least one solid week of sub-freezing weather prior to construction of the rink. The initial freeze is very important to ensure a consistent depth.

    • 2

      Attach the faucet to the hose with the adapter. Set the faucet to produce hot water. Spray a thin sheet of hot water evenly over the ice surface every evening prior to the weather getting its coldest.

    • 3

      Unfurl and drag large beach towels across the water immediately after application to smooth the ice surface evenly. The spray-and-smooth process should be done after every use to allow a smooth ice surface for the next skating session.