Case Study

Dehumidification System for an Ice Rink

Overview

Industry: Leisure / Sports & Recreation

Project Overview: The desiccant system dried incoming and recirculated air to stop moisture forming on cold surfaces, preventing fog and condensation. This kept the ice surface in good condition, improved visibility, and reduced structural moisture problems throughout the facility.

The facility was an indoor ice rink. Moisture from warm outside air would enter via small leaks and frequent door traffic. That moisture raised humidity and dew point inside. When the humid air met cold surfaces — such as steel roof supports or the rink’s structure — dew point could be reached, causing condensation. Water dripping onto the ice could pit the surface or form “ice mushrooms.” This damage degraded ice quality. In summer, high moisture loads could also lead to indoor fog.

 

DST’s solution was a desiccant dehumidifier configured to maintain either constant relative humidity or a stable dew point. By keeping the air dew point below the temperature of internal surfaces, condensation and fog were prevented. Lower humidity also reduced risks of mould, mildew and corrosion, and improved safety for electrical equipment.

The Challenge

  • Moisture ingress and humidity spikes: Outdoor air infiltration and door traffic continuously introduced moisture.

  • Cold internal surfaces: Ice rinks have surfaces cold enough that humid air often reaches saturation, causing condensation or dripping.

  • Ice quality risks: Water droplets falling on the ice cause surface imperfections or “ice mushrooms” which degrade skating quality.

  • Fog formation: High humidity and moisture loads, especially during warm external conditions, risked fog inside the rink, reducing visibility and creating unpleasant conditions.

  • Need for continuous control: The system had to run reliably despite varying external weather, occupant traffic, and frequent air exchanges due to door use.

The Solution

DST installed a desiccant dehumidification system tailored to the needs of an ice rink environment.

  • Humidity / Dew Point Control: The system constantly monitors air conditions. It dries recirculated air (and some fresh air where required) to maintain dew point below the temperature of rink surfaces. This ensures condensation and fog cannot form.

  • Controlled Air Recirculation: Air within the rink is recirculated and dehumidified. Fresh air may be introduced when needed, but it is first dehumidified to avoid moisture spikes.

  • Stable Environmental Conditions: By regulating humidity or dew point, the system keeps conditions stable over time, regardless of external weather or internal activity. This supports consistent ice quality, reduces risk of damage to surfaces, and maintains safety for occupants and equipment.

Installation and Integration

The DST desiccant dehumidifier was integrated into the rink’s existing air handling and circulation structure. The system was configured to run continuously, ensuring that both recirculated and fresh air remain dry and stable. The installation required minimal structural changes, avoiding disruption to the rink’s operations. Airflows were arranged to ensure dehumidified air reached all parts of the rink, especially zones most exposed to moisture ingress.

Client Feedback

Rink management reported clear improvements. They noted the ice remained in consistent, high-quality condition. Indoor air stayed dry even in warmer months. Staff appreciated reduced maintenance and safety risks. The system’s ongoing reliability and low maintenance requirements were highlighted as major benefits.

Results

  • Condensation and fog eliminated: Indoor surfaces remained dry. No condensation occurred on roof supports or rink structure. Fog events ceased.

  • Improved ice quality: Ice surface stayed smooth and undamaged. No pitting or “ice mushrooms” formed.

  • Reduced mould, mildew and corrosion risk: Lower humidity helped preserve building and mechanical components. Electrical circuits remained safe.

  • Safe, comfortable environment: Indoor air remained dry and stable, improving comfort for skaters and staff, and ensuring safe visibility.

Summary

The DST desiccant dehumidification system provided a dependable humidity and dew point control solution for the ice rink. By preventing condensation and fog, it preserved ice quality, protected structural and mechanical elements, and maintained safe indoor conditions. For leisure facilities facing moisture ingress, wet surfaces, fog, or condensation — especially where cold surfaces are present — a system like this can deliver long-term control and protection.

If your facility suffers similar humidity issues, DST Humidity Control can help plan a suitable solution.