Zamboni’s are a vital asset of all sports on ice, especially hockey and figure skating. However, what do Zamboni’s really do?

Zamboni is a brand, like calling a pop a Coke, or a bandage a Band-Aid.

Frank Zamboni invented the machine in 1949, and ever since, has revolutionized the sport. But there is a common misconception about what they actually do.

“They shave the ice and then the augers pick it up and throw it into a box. Then you lay a nice smooth sheet of water behind and usually sets up within five, ten minutes,” said Troy Sager, Arena Manager at the Duluth Heritage Sports Center.

Though it may sound easy, even lifelong drivers have had their fair share of mix-ups.

“One time I was shaving way too hard and then I was coming around the corner and the tires were just spinning because I was just dragging so much behind and I was like, I don’t know what to do and I totally stalled on the ice and it was a huge mess and I had to get off the ice and we had to fix the ice. So it was a good experience, good breaking in,” shared Sager.

Zambonis drive, and are composed of similar make ups to regular cars. However, popping the hood, there are many other working parts to it.

“It’s like your typical working engine, there is a main water tank. This is what you fill up every time and that’s what gets a nice smooth sheet behind you, and then there’s a second water tank, that’s a wash water tank and that sprays two jets sideways to fill in all those skate marks.”

After learning the intricacies of the machine, it was time to get on the ice and do the job.

Plus, there’s no better time or place to learn how a machine works until you’re using it.

“First thing is you want to drop the conditioner, turn on both your augers, start your water, and adjust your blade, then board brush for the first lap. That’s pretty much it and it stays that way until you get off the ice, and then everything goes in reverse.”

Sager detailed more about the Zamboni, including its top speed, how many times a day arena managers go out on the ice, and more.