We’ve all heard the saying that hot water boils faster than cold water. Next time you’re making some ramen, try starting with hot water and putting a lid on the pot—you’ll notice how much faster it reaches a boil. But does this logic also apply to freezing? At first glance, you might think cold water would freeze faster than hot water—and under most circumstances, you’d be right.
However, when it comes to creating an ice surface for skating, we should always aim to use hot water. While it may seem counterintuitive, flooding a rink with hot water is a widely accepted practice because it produces a smoother, more durable, and higher-quality ice surface.
Why Use Hot Water for Flooding a Rink?
- Hot Water Melts Imperfections
When hot water is poured onto an ice surface, it melts the top layer of rough or uneven ice. This brief melting process smooths out scratches, chips, and other imperfections. As the hot water refreezes, it creates a uniform surface, resulting in smoother and harder ice that is ideal for skating. - Air Bubbles Are Reduced
Hot water contains less dissolved air than cold water. When it freezes, this reduced air content minimizes the formation of bubbles in the ice. The result is a denser, clearer ice surface that is stronger and less prone to chipping or cracking. Clear ice also enhances visibility, which is especially important for indoor rinks. - Faster Freezing
While it may seem surprising, hot water can freeze faster than cold water under specific conditions, a phenomenon known as the Mpemba Effect. In the context of rink flooding, the key is not just the temperature but how evenly the water is applied. Hot water spreads out thinly on the cold ice, allowing it to freeze quickly and uniformly. - Better Ice Bonding
Hot water temporarily melts the existing surface as it is applied, allowing it to bond seamlessly with the new layer of ice. This eliminates any weak points between layers that could lead to separation or cracking. Using cold water, by contrast, risks creating layers that don’t fully adhere to each other, resulting in weaker, less durable ice. - Improved Skating Performance
Smooth, dense ice isn’t just about aesthetics—it directly impacts the quality of skating. Skaters glide more efficiently on ice that is free of bubbles and rough patches. Whether for figure skating, hockey, or recreational skating, using hot water ensures a surface that enhances performance and reduces the risk of injury.
While cold water might seem like the obvious choice for freezing, when it comes to building a perfect skating rink, hot water is the way to go. It provides a smoother, denser, and more durable ice surface, improving both functionality and appearance. So, the next time you’re flooding a rink, remember that hot water is your best ally in creating a pristine skating experience.