If you're having any issues with the Little Cloud Snow Gun making ice, water, or other related issues, please take a look at each of these potential causes:
Temperature/Humidity Not in the Proper Range
Explanation: If the temperature is too warm or the humidity is too high, snow will not form. If conditions are right on the edge of snowmaking, you may create slush, which can turn into icy snow.
Cause: Many times, weather apps are not always accurate. Getting the temperature and humidity at your specific location is the best way to test this theory and get accurate data.
Fix: Use a reliable thermometer and weather station at the snowmaking site to get real-time data. Waiting until temperatures are slightly colder will also help ensure conditions are successful.
Snow Gun Angle is Too Low
Explanation: The snow gun is designed so that the nucleation nozzle spray mixes with the water streams a few feet from the snow gun. These ice crystals and water droplets need time to mix and freeze in order to form snowflakes.
Cause: If the snow gun is angled too low or directly at the ground, it may not allow enough time for water droplets to freeze and mix, resulting in icy snow.
Fix: In marginal conditions, angle the gun higher in the air to allow more "hang time" or time for water droplets to freeze. Only angle the snow gun 90 degrees or downward in extremely cold conditions. (ideal snowmaking conditions)
No/Little Air Flow to the Nucleation Nozzle
Explanation: The nucleation nozzle is essential for snowflakes to form, using both air and water to project small ice crystals into the main water spray. Reduced air flow and pressure to the nozzle will negatively impact snowmaking ability.
Causes:
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Undersized Compressor: Needs to be rated at 4.5 CFM @ 90 PSI or higher. Lower output may create ice or poor-quality snow.
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Regulated Air Compressor: Some compressors have the option to regulate airflow with a regulating valve, reducing air output to the nozzle.
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Long Air Hose: Hoses longer than 25 ft can freeze internally over time, restricting airflow.
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Air Leaks: Leaks at fittings or connections can reduce pressure.
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Sticky Air Check Valve: A stuck valve can prevent air from reaching the nucleation nozzle.
Fixes:
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Use a properly rated compressor of at least 4.5 CFM @ 90 PSI.
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Remove or fully open any airflow regulators to allow max airflow to the Nucleation Nozzle.
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Use a 10 ft air hose (easiest solution) or insulate longer hoses. You can also use an inline air dryer to remove moisture from entering the air hose and reduce freezing. Another tip is wrapping the longer air hose with the pressure washer hose to generate heat from the water and friction to reduce freezing.
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Check all air connections for leaks and seal with Teflon tape.
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If you have a sticky air check valve, use a thin tool to free the stick. Contact support if needed.
Ice Cone Build-up
Explanation: Ice building up around the bottom nozzle can block the nucleation nozzle spray, producing Ice or low-quality snow.
Causes:
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Snow falling back onto the gun
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Wind blowing snow into the nozzle
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Leaks around the nucleation nozzle
Fixes:
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Adjust the angle to prevent snow blowback.
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Ensure the wind is low and steady (under 10 MPH). Angle the snow gun with the wind, not against it.
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Tighten any leaking fittings.
Low Water Pressure (Air Overpowering Water)
Explanation: The Little Cloud uses water directly from your water source. If the water pressure is too low, water droplets will not form correctly, and air will overpower the water in the nucleation nozzle, resulting in ice instead of snow.
Causes:
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Home or site water pressure is below 50 PSI.
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Air compressor CFM is too high relative to water pressure, overpowering the water supply.
Fixes:
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Ensure your water source provides between 50-120 PSI for proper operation.
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If the water pressure is too low, use a booster pump to increase pressure.
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If using an air compressor rated over 7 CFM @ 90 PSI, regulate air pressure slightly to balance air and water flow at the nucleation nozzle.
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Forecaster Troubleshooting Guide