Snomax

Any more questions? Here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions.

FAQ

How does Snomax work?

Snomax is a protein that makes water freeze at a higher temperature. It is mixed with the snow water in the pump house. The proteins act as extra nuclides and so improve the crystallization process because water freezes faster if it can attach to nuclides. The higher number of nuclides means that snow can be generated at a higher temperature. More snow is made from the water used because less water evaporates. Snow produced using Snomax lasts longer because of its stronger ionic bonds and smaller crystal structure.

Positive effects of Snomax?

Snomax saves energy and water. That saves you money and protects the environment. The numerous positive effects that lead to a considerable saving of energy and water are:

  • Snomax generates extra nucleators so more snow can be generated from the amount of water and energy used. This reduces the snow-production time and the amount of water used.
  • Snomax snow lasts longer so it needs extra snow less often.
  • Water mixed with Snomax freezes closer to the nozzles and so counters evaporation.
  • Snomax can generate snow of a higher quality.
  • If the snow generated is too wet, Snomax prevents the formation of ice because the snow continues freezing.
  • Snomax snow is drier and easier to handle so slope preparation can be reduced.
  • With Snomax, the snow-generation system can operate at higher temperatures.

All these effects make systems that use Snomax much more efficient. You save water and energy. The skiers are happy because the snow quality is better.

Does Snomax have negative effects on the environment?

No! Snomax uses the proteins from a naturally occuring microbe. This organism is also found without Snomax in nature all over the world, in water, on land and in the air. Because Snomax does not contain living substances, it cannot increase the number of proteins. Numerous studies have proven that Snomax has no negative effects on the environment. For example:

biolink, Communication on Biotechnology, Report (PDF)
Federal Office of the Environment, Forests and Landscape (BUWAL) Report (PDF)

On the contrary, Snomax contributes significantly to the protection of resources and therefore has a positive effect on our environment.

How do I achieve maximum efficiency?

Snomax should be used within 24 hours of mixing. Snomax should not be heated but instead mixed with cold water. The water temperature should be 50°F or 10°C. The greatest enemies of Snomax proteins are heat and the bacteria that feed on the protein. The best effects will be achieved if Snomax 1) is kept cool and in closed bags before use, 2) is then mixed with cold water, and 3) is used within 24 hours.

How will I know if Snomax is really working?

Snomax works at a micro-level so you can’t see the effects with the naked eye. That’s why we’ve submitted it for independent testing numerous times to confirm its effectiveness.

If you only believe what you can see yourself, we’ll gladly pay you a visit and prove the effectiveness of Snomax using some practical tests. We’ll use a cold plate to demonstrate how quickly water freezes thanks to Snomax. You’ll easily see the positive effects because your system will produce snow instead of water at marginal temperatures. The best evidence in support of Snomax is the optimized energy balance of your system at the end of the season.

Can water with added chlorine reduce the effectiveness of Snomax?

In many regions, the snow water used has added chlorine to kill dangerous bacteria and viruses. This chlorine can reduce the effectiveness of Snomax after a time, even if the quantity is very low. It does take a while, though. That’s why it is always essential to mix fresh Snomax and use it within 24 hours. That way the chlorine cannot harm the proteins in Snomax. After 24 hours, the chlorine starts to destroy the proteins.

However, the 24-hour rule does not apply to water with no added chlorine. Nevertheless, the proteins lose their positive effect after a long period, even in the absence of chlorine.