Snow machines add an atmospheric effect to festive parties and other events. By shooting foam up into the air, these machines simulate real snow and create a magical effect. At Bax Music, you'll find snow-machines for every party and budget.
Snow Machine Effects: Never Real Snow
An FX-focussed snow machine or snow canon never produces real snow. Instead, it runs on special snow fluid to produce a kind of foam that looks like actual snow.
The Best Snow Machine Fluid
Before you buy and top off a snow machine, it's important to be aware of the various snow fluids you can get. First of all, it needs to be a safe non-irritant since it's going to get into people's eyes. As such, buy purpose-made snow fluid only. It's designed to be safe for both humans and your snow machine and ensures optimal performance and maximum effect. Also, don't forget to read the user manual that comes with your machine so you know which fluid is compatible and can learn how to operate the unit correctly.
Snow Machine Fluid is Harmless
Snow fluid has been carefully composed and is safe to use in normal conditions. Unless ingested, the fluid is harmless and doesn't irritate the eyes or skin when used as instructed.
A Mini or Monster Snow Machine?
Combined with light effects, snow machines can really take a New Year's Eve or Christmas party to the next level. The same goes for après-ski as well as photo-and-video shoots. Always think about the size of the space or venue beforehand so you know how much fluid you'll be needing, and remember that snow machines are mainly designed for outdoor use. While they can be set up indoors, things can get messy or slippery quite quickly, especially in the case of smoother surfaces like tiled floors.
Tank Capacity
How much fluid you need depends on a number of things. Firstly, the capacity of the tank installed in your snow machine. Then there's the output capacity, which will tell you he maximum amount of fluid your machine uses. If you want to create masses of snow, then it's a good idea to go for a high-output snow machine that comes equipped with a large fluid tank.
Portable/Mobile Snow Machines
Portable snow machines are lightweight and compact enough to be effortlessly lugged to smaller parties, making them ideal for mobile DJs and other travelling performers. Portable snow machines are as quick to deploy as they are to pack up.
Frequently Asked Questions About Snow Machines
How does a snow machine work?
Snow machines are outfitted with a built-in fan that forces snow fluid out through a nozzle under high pressure. This creates a foam that's blown up into the air and spread into foam flakes that float down and settle slowly, mimicking real snow.
What does it cost to hire a snow cannon?
At Bax Music, you can hire a snow machine for as little as £20 per month. See our Hiring Gear page for more info.
Where should you place a snow machine?
While snow machines can be placed on the ground, for maximum effect, the best way to set one up is by suspending it from a light bridge or truss. Make sure to use one or more safety cables and mounting clamps so that the machine is fully secured.
What kind of ambient temperatures are safe for snow machines?
Snow machines should only be used in non-freezing conditions, so when the temperature is above zero degrees Celsius.
How long does it take for the 'snow' to disappear?
Snow-effect fluid creates foam flakes that will disappear after 10 to 15 minutes. In some cases, the fake snow might remain for up to 30 minutes. Shorter is usually better since stacking layers of snow at a party isn't exactly practical.
How long will 5 litres of snow fluid last?
That depends on your snow machine and the way it's dialled in. On average, five litres of snow fluid should last about 45 minutes.
How do you store a snow machine?
Snow machines need to be stored in a dry, frost-free place.
How do you clean a snow machine?
If you're not going to be using your snow machine for a while, give it a good rinse using distilled water to wash away any snow fluid residue. This way, there won't be any residue that could harm the pump or hoses while the machine is in storage.
