Slope Experts say when Preparing for snowmaking - Efficient snow production begins before the first cold day
14/October/2026
When temperatures drop and the first suitable snowfall window opens, things often need to happen quickly. Short cold spells leave little room for technical problems, dirty components, or unclear processes. Efficient snow production therefore doesn't begin with switching on the first snow cannons – but months in advance.
When temperatures drop and the first suitable snowfall window opens, things often need to happen quickly. Short cold spells leave little room for technical problems, dirty components, or unclear processes. Efficient snow production therefore doesn't begin with switching on the first snow cannons – but months in advance.
A well-prepared snowmaking system can make more targeted use of available cold spells, reduce downtime, and utilize existing resources efficiently. Crucial to this is the interplay of all components: from the water reservoir and pumping station to pipes and shafts, and on to snow guns, sensors, and controls.
Maintenance: The foundation for a reliable start to the season
After winter comes the next winter. The snow-free months offer the best opportunity to systematically review the entire snowmaking infrastructure.
This includes snow guns, nozzles, filters, valves, and hydrants, as well as electrical connections, pumps, and engine rooms. Wear parts can be replaced early and minor damage repaired before it leads to a breakdown during a valuable cold snap.
A complete functional test should not be postponed until the first frost. The earlier problems are detected, the greater the scope for repairs and replacement parts.
Cleaning the water tank: Clean water protects the entire system.
One aspect that shouldn't be underestimated during preparation is the inspection and cleaning of water storage tanks. During the warmer months, depending on the tank and water quality, algae, sediment, sludge, or other contaminants can form or accumulate.
If such contaminants are present, they should be removed well before the start of the snowmaking season. Contaminants can not only impair water quality but also put greater strain on filters, pumps, valves, pipes, and nozzles.
In the worst case scenario, blockages or operational disruptions occur precisely when the first cold days allow for intensive snow production.
Therefore, an early visual inspection of the water reservoir is recommended. If algae or deposits are visible, there is sufficient time for a thorough cleaning before the start of the season. At the same time, intake points, filters, and other water-carrying areas should be checked.
The goal is clear: when the first suitable snowfall window arrives, the water supply must function continuously and with as few disruptions as possible.
Check pumps, pipes and hydrants early.
In addition to the water reservoir, the further path of the water must also be controlled. The performance of a snowmaking system ultimately depends on more than just the snow guns.
Pumps, filters, valves, pipelines, hydrants, and manholes should be checked for proper function, wear, and potential leaks. Pressure levels and pump performance also play an important role.
Work on pipeline networks or shafts is much easier to carry out in summer and autumn than in sub-zero temperatures, snow and ongoing ski operations.
Define the snowmaking strategy before winter
A technically ready system is only half the battle. Equally important is the question: Where should snow be produced first during a short snowfall window?
Priorities should therefore be set before the season begins. Valley runs, connecting slopes, lift access points, or areas particularly prone to poor snow conditions may require different production targets.
A clearly defined snowmaking plan helps to deploy water, pumping and snowmaking capacities where they will be most beneficial.
Testing sensors, software and communication
Weather stations, temperature and humidity sensors, communication links and the system control should also be checked in a timely manner.
A test run before the start of the season answers important questions: Are the valves being controlled correctly? Are the snow guns communicating reliably with the control unit? Are the sensors delivering plausible values? Are the pumps and pressure regulation functioning under load?
What is identified before winter doesn't need to be improvised during the first cold night.
Preparing the team for the start of the season
Efficient snowmaking is not just a matter of technology. Well-established procedures and clear responsibilities are also crucial.
Employees should be familiar with snowmaking equipment, pumping stations, and control systems, and know how to react quickly to malfunctions. Especially during short periods of cold weather, a well-prepared team helps prevent the loss of valuable production time due to avoidable coordination or troubleshooting.
When the snow window opens, every hour counts.
The first suitable cold day should not be the time when a snowmaking system is fully checked for the first time.
Maintenance, cleaning of water reservoirs, checks of pumps and pipes, system tests, snowmaking planning and preparation of the team are all part of the weeks and months beforehand.
Because the better prepared the technology, water supply, and processes are, the more effectively the first cold days can be utilized. Efficient snow production therefore doesn't begin with sub-zero temperatures – but with proactive preparation.
Prepare snowmaking in good time for winter
An early inspection of the snowmaking system creates good conditions for a reliable start to the winter season. Maintenance work, necessary cleaning measures, and technical adjustments can be planned and carried out calmly outside of the first cold spell.
Preparing your snowmaking system in advance for the upcoming season lays the foundation for making the most reliable and efficient use of the first suitable snowfall windows. We are happy to answer any questions you may have about preparation or necessary measures.
