Get Ready for Winter: Key Considerations for Temporary Ice Rink Operators

As the winter season approaches, temporary ice rinks are a central attraction across UK’s towns and cities.  Many businesses are already in full speed preparing for these seasonal events, which nationwide deliver thousands of square metres of real ice every year. For all, ensuring the ice is maintained in top condition for a smooth and enjoyable skating experience is critical.

ICS Cool Energy has been providing temporary and fixed chiller systems for ice rinks for decades. Last season alone, the we supplied cooling to over 17,000m² of skating area across the country, supporting not only seasonal projects but also fixed arenas for emergency repairs, upgrades, and maintenance to ensure seamless service for clients and their customers.

Here are some essential factors that ice rink operators should consider when selecting cooling systems to ensure seamless operation throughout the season.

Time management and project delivery

With the seasonal nature of the ice rink industry, effective time management is crucial. Ice rinks typically operate for a limited period, often between November and January, meaning any delay in setting up can severely impact revenue. This compressed timeline leaves no room for operational setbacks. Delays in installation or setup can result in fewer days of operation, leading to lower ticket sales, dissatisfied customers, and missed opportunities to capitalise on holiday crowds.

One of the biggest risks operators face is last-minute breakdowns or installation issues. If equipment isn’t properly tested and ready for use, the time needed to resolve such problems can be costly. Ensuring that the cooling systems and supporting infrastructure are in place and functioning well before the rink opens should be a top priority.

The right cooling system provider will address this challenge by taking a proactive, methodical approach to project management – ensuring that each system undergoes rigorous testing before deployment. This includes testing hoses, pressure systems, and other critical components to avoid unforeseen failures once the rink is operational.

Reliability and swift response

Reliability is one of the most critical aspects of operating temporary ice rinks. What sets reliable providers apart is not just robust equipment but the ability to respond quickly to any issues.

Temporary ice rinks operate on a very tight schedule, with events running for only a few weeks or months, thus waiting days for an engineer is not feasible. 24/7 call-out service ensures that rink operators have immediate access to engineers, even outside of regular business hours.

Even a short period of lack of ice can have a massive impact on the skating experience and ultimately revenue.

Customised solutions for every rink

Every temporary ice rink project presents its own distinct set of challenges, from the unique layout of the site to local climate and operational constraints.

Some rinks may have limited space for placing chillers and other equipment. Often, chillers are positioned away from the rink surface, necessitating longer, insulated hoses to prevent energy loss and maintain optimal cooling efficiency.

Some projects involve equipment installed on scaffold platforms or in listed properties where extra precautions should be taken to ensure that no damage occurs to the property. Each separate project scenario needs to be carefully assessed for finding the right solution and installation process.

When hiring equipment for a temporary ice rink the choice of a supplier with a proven track record ensures dependable systems and comprehensive support, avoiding operational disasters and maintaining consistent performance throughout the rink’s operational period.