10 Questions You Should to Know about Venue Fog Machine

Whether you're a party planner, an aspiring photographer, or just someone who loves to play with special effects, there's a fog machine out there for you. So let's get started on your journey to becoming a fog machine expert!

What is a Fog Machine?

A fog machine is a device that creates a thick mist, adding a dramatic flair to any event or photo shoot. It's straightforward to use: with the push of a button, the machine spews out a cloud of fog that can set the mood from eerie to enchanting. Take the Ulanzi FM01 FILMOG Ace Portable Fog Machine, for example; it's a compact, handheld tool that lets you easily bring the visual impact of fog wherever you need it-perfect for parties, videos, or a fun touch to your next Halloween setup.

How Fog Machines Work

Understanding how a fog machine transforms liquid into a mesmerizing mist is pretty straightforward. Here's what happens step by step:

• Heating: First, inside the fog machine, there's a heater core that warms up the "fog juice," which is a special fluid made for fog machines.
• Vaporization: As the fog juice heats up, it turns into a vapor-a bit like boiling water into steam, but at a lower temperature so it stays visible.
• Emission: This vapor then passes through a nozzle or out of the machine's front, cooling slightly on the way out, which creates the thick cloud of fog we see.
• Control: Most machines have knobs or buttons that let you control how much fog comes out and sometimes even the thickness or thinness of the mist.

Remember, the fog from these machines can linger, filling the room with a spooky or enchanting atmosphere depending on the setting. It's a simple but effective way to add some drama to any scene!

What are the Different Types of Fog Machines?

When shopping for a fog machine, you'll notice there's a variety to choose from, each suited to different needs and situations. Here are the main types you might encounter:

• Ground Foggers: These devices are designed to keep the fog low, close to the ground, creating a creepy, creeping mist effect. They're perfect for haunted houses or "walking on clouds" dance floor moments.
• Low-Lying Fog Machines: Similar to ground foggers but often using ice or refrigeration technology, these machines produce a denser fog that stays low without rising quickly into the air
• Handheld Foggers: Portable and easy to maneuver, handheld foggers let you direct the fog precisely where you want it, ideal for photographers or mobile DJs who need to move around.
• Professional Fog Machines: Boasting higher power and larger fluid reservoirs, professional machines are built for big events and venues, capable of blanketing a large area in fog for extended periods.
• Mini Foggers: Small and typically more affordable, mini foggers are great for home parties or small indoor events where you want a touch of fog without overpowering the space.

Each type of machine offers unique benefits, so consider the event size, the desired fog effect, and how much control you want over the output when making your choice. Whether it's a creepy crawl through the mist or a dreamy haze at a wedding reception, there's a fog machine out there that can deliver the atmosphere you're aiming for.

What are the Differences Between Fog Machines and Smoke Machines?

1. Output

Fog machines are designed to produce a fine mist that can add an ethereal touch to any setting. They're the secret behind those visible beams of light at concerts and the gentle haze that gives a fairy-tale look to wedding dances. The mist is usually cool to the touch and diffuses light without being too overpowering.

Smoke machines, in contrast, create a heavier type of 'smoke' that closely resembles what you'd see with actual burning materials. This makes them ideal for special effects where you need to mimic real smoke-as in a simulated fire for a movie scene or a firefighter training exercise. The output is denser and can create an intense, sometimes startling effect.

2. Density

When it comes to fog machines, the key feature is their ability to maintain a lower density. This lighter fog spreads out smoothly to fill a room, allowing people and the environment to remain visible through the misty air. It's perfect for maintaining an aura of mystery without losing the ability to navigate the space.

On the other hand, smoke machines pump out a much thicker 'smoke' that can substantially obscure vision, making them unsuitable for situations where clarity is important. The dense output is there to create a visual barrier that looks just like smoke-filled air, ideal for evoking a sense of urgency or danger.

3. Lingering Effect

The lingering quality of fog from fog machines means that once the mist has filled the area, it will stick around, creating a consistent atmosphere that can last throughout an event. This persistent presence of fog is especially desirable when you want to set a particular mood or theme for an extended period.

The smoke produced by smoke machines is more ephemeral. It appears dramatically but then fades away relatively quickly. This transient nature is useful when the goal is to have smoke appear as part of a specific cue or moment without affecting the rest of the event's visibility.

4. Fluid Used

Safety and comfort are paramount when using fog machines, which is why they generally utilize a mix of water and glycol or glycerin-based fluids. These compounds are specially formulated to produce fog that is safe to breathe and almost odorless, minimizing any potential discomfort for guests or performers.

Conversely, the variety of fluids available for smoke machines, including oil-based options, can result in a noticeable smell that may not be suitable for all environments. While effective for their intended uses, they can cause irritation, particularly in poorly ventilated areas or among people with respiratory sensitivities.

5. Common Uses

The applications of fog machines are diverse, ranging from adding a splash of magic to entertainment venues and nightclubs to bringing a ghostly vibe to Halloween parties or enhancing the ambiance in theatrical productions. Their use is typically associated with creating a pleasant, atmospheric condition that contributes to the overall experience.

Smoke machines are most commonly used in practical scenarios like emergency services training, where replicating the conditions of a real fire is crucial. They're also a staple in the film and television industry when realistic smoke effects are needed on-screen, or even in commercial settings such as alarm system testing, where the presence of thick smoke is required.

How to Choose the Right Fog Machine for Your Needs

When you're in the market for a fog machine, thinking about what you need it for is key. Here's how to choose the right one for your event or project:

• Event Size: The size of your venue or event matters a lot. If you've got a small room, a mini fog machine might do the trick without overwhelming the space. For bigger venues or outdoor areas, you'll want a professional-grade machine that can fill up the space with fog effectively.
• Fog Density and Duration: Consider how thick and how long-lasting you want the fog to be. For a dance floor that needs to look cloud-like all night long, get a machine that produces a consistent and durable mist. If you're after short bursts of fog for dramatic effect like in a play or during a specific moment at a party, a smaller machine with less output could work well.
• Control and Features: Some fog machines come with remote controls, timers, or even DMX connectivity, allowing you to synchronize the fog with music or lights. Decide if you need these extra features or if a simple on-and-off switch meets your needs.
• Fluid Compatibility: Make sure to check what type of fluid the machine requires and confirm its availability and cost. Standard fog juice is widely available, but some machines may need special fluids to create different types of effects.
• Budget: Fog machines can range from quite affordable to fairly expensive. Figure out your budget early on and find the best machine within your price range. Remember, more expensive doesn't always mean better for your specific needs.
• Portability: If you're a mobile DJ or a traveling photographer, consider how easy the machine is to carry around. Portable, battery-operated fog machines can be very handy if you're often on the move.

By considering these factors, you can narrow down the options and pick a fog machine that will suit the ambiance you're aiming to create, whether that's a soft background mist or a dense foggy scene straight out of a gothic novel.

Safety Tips for Using Fog Machines

Getting your hands on a fog machine can be exciting, but before you start creating that perfect misty atmosphere, it's important to keep safety in mind. Here are some simple tips to ensure you use your fog machine without any hiccups:

• Read the Manual: It might seem boring, but the manufacturer's instructions are there to help you use the machine safely and correctly. Give it a read.
• Ventilation is Key: Make sure your space is well-ventilated. Fog machines are generally safe, but you don't want the air getting too stuffy, especially with lots of people around.
• Keep it Dry: Electricity and liquids don't mix. Always keep your fog machine dry and handle the fog liquid carefully to avoid spills.
• Watch the Heat: These machines can get hot, so place them on a heat-resistant surface and don't touch the heating element inside.
• Fluid Matters: Only use the fluid recommended by the manufacturer. Other fluids might not work as well or could even damage your machine-or worse, be unsafe.
• No Blockages: Make sure the nozzle where the fog comes out isn't blocked. A clogged machine can overheat or stop working properly.
• Keep an Eye on It: Don't leave your fog machine running unattended. If something goes wrong, you'll want to be there to shut it off immediately.
• Breathe Easy: If someone has breathing issues or the room starts getting too foggy, turn off the machine and let the air clear. Health comes first.
• Children and Pets: Keep kids and pets away from the fog machine, both for their safety and to prevent any accidental messes or damages.

How to Maintain and Clean Your Fog Machine

To keep your fog machine in tip-top shape and churning out that cool mist, you'll need to show it some regular love with maintenance and cleaning. Here's how to do it without getting bogged down in technical jargon:

• Regular Check-ups: Just like a car, your fog machine needs regular check-ins. After every few uses, give it an inspection for any signs of wear or damage.
• Cleaning Cycle: Every so often, run a cleaning solution through your machine to clear out any residue. Many manufacturers sell specific cleaners designed for their machines.
• Emptying the Tank: If you're not going to use your fog machine for a while, empty the fluid tank. This prevents old fluid from gunking up the works.
• Dry Storage: Store your machine in a dry place when it's not in use. Moisture can be the enemy of electronic equipment.
• Dust-free Zone: Keep your machine covered or in a case to protect it from dust. Dust build-up inside the machine can lead to blockages and overheating.
• Handle with Care: Even though some fog machines are built tough, always handle yours gently to avoid bumps and bruises that could affect its performance.

Maintenance doesn't have to be overwhelming. By following these simple steps, you'll extend the life of your fog machine and ensure it's ready to go whenever you need a burst of atmospheric magic.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're setting the stage for a spine-tingling haunted house, crafting an enchanting backdrop for a wedding, or just bringing some extra flair to your parties, choosing and using a fog machine can be simple and safe. By selecting the right type for your needs, prioritizing safety, and keeping up with straightforward maintenance, you'll not only enhance the atmosphere of your events but also get the most out of your fog machine for years to come.

FAQs About Fog Machines

Q1: Are fog machines safe?

Yes, fog machines are generally safe when used according to the manufacturer's instructions and in well-ventilated areas. The fog itself is non-toxic, and as long as you use the correct fluid and keep the machine clean, there shouldn't be any significant safety issues.

Q2: What is a good wattage for a fog machine?

For a portable fog machine, a good wattage is around 40 watts. This should be sufficient to produce an adequate amount of fog for smaller spaces or more intimate venues.

Q3: Can I make colored smoke with a fog machine?

While traditional fog machines produce white mist, you can achieve colored smoke effects by shining colored lights through the fog or by using special additives in the fog juice that are designed to produce colored fog. However, these should be used cautiously and only products specifically designed for fog machines should be used to ensure safety and avoid damaging the machine.

Q4: What is fog machine fluid made of?

Fog machine fluid is typically a blend of vegetable glycerin and propylene glycol. These substances are responsible for creating the visible mist when heated by the fog machine.

Q5: How much does a fog machine cost?

The price of a fog machine can vary widely based on size, features, and output quality. Basic models suitable for home use might start around $30 to $50, while professional-grade machines with advanced features can range from $100 to over $200.

Q6: Is fog from a fog machine safe to inhale?

Yes, the fog produced by a fog machine is generally considered safe to inhale. This is because the fluid used in these machines is primarily water-based mixed with glycol or glycerin. However, it's always important to use the machine in a well-ventilated area and follow the manufacturer's instructions to ensure safety. Individuals with asthma or other respiratory issues should exercise caution and may want to consult with a healthcare professional before spending time in an environment where a fog machine is being used.

Q7: What is the difference between a hazer and a fog machine?

The main difference between a hazer and a fog machine lies in the type of atmospheric effect they create. A hazer disperses a much finer mist that appears more diffused and subtle throughout the space, enhancing lighting effects without creating distinctly visible clouds of fog. This effect is perfect for concerts and theaters where visibility is crucial. On the other hand, a fog machine produces a thicker, more opaque output that is more localized, often used in haunted houses or for special effects that require a heavier visual impact of 'smoke'.

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SMOKE MACHINES
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Click here for information on how to place an order

Can your smoke machines make coloured smoke / can I use coloured smoke fluid?
No - it is not possible. Use lighting with coloured filters to colour the smoke or use our our electrically ignited theatrical pyrotechnic coloured smoke cartridges. There is no way to create coloured smoke from a coloured fog fluid in a smoke machine. In depth answer...

Do you sell smoke machines that do not require mains power?
Yes we do - our battery powered smoke machines and our exterior gas powered smoke gun. You could also use our pyrotechnic smoke pellets and electronically detonated coloured smoke cartridges. The basic 1.1kW version of the Rocket hand portable unit can run from any 1.5kva power generator without any issues!

Do smoke machines / hazers trigger fire alarms?
Two simple factors dictate this:

- density level

- sensitivity level / type of detectors

If the smoke or haze level is dense enough, both smoke machines AND HAZERS can trigger ionisation / optical, vesda (air sampling) or video smoke detectors/detection systems, depending on their sensitivity level. However, heat or "rate of temperature increase" detectors will NOT be activated. A high-end hazer (eg Phantom Hazer) when used at a low density level is slightly less likely to set off smoke detection systems than a smoke machine.

If you are uncertain of what type of smoke detector your venue has, consult with the head of maintenance or, as a last resort, notify the fire department and do a test run. You can also manually block smoke detectors by fitting a latex rubber glove over the detector, effectively preventing smoke laden air reaching the particle sensors.

If you need to test smoke detectors, blasting the smoke from one of our machines towards the detector will set it off. We also supply specialist units which heat the smoke so it rises up like that from a real fire.

Can I use any brand of smoke fluid in my smoke machine?
Our job would certainly be easier if the answer was 'yes', but alas the answer is NO and here's why:

Smoke generators are designed around a specific mixture of chemicals, with specific boiling ranges. Using a smoke fluid that, for example, is based on propylene glycol and water, which has a relatively low boiling range, through a generator set for glycerine / water (with a much higher boiling range) potentially can crack the chemical, forming unpleasant and potentially toxic compounds (acroleins, aldehydes etc). Even changing the amount of water in a mixture can have an effect.

All the major UK manufacturers agree about the potential dangers of mixing and matching smoke chemicals, and stress that so called 'generic smoke fluids' simply could not be relied upon to produce a consistent and safe smoke in every generator. The use of generic fluids or the wrong fluid in the machine regrettably keeps our service and spare parts department busy.

Safe smoke that is non-toxic to breathe in is your responsibility!

The use of generic smoke chemical in place of the manufacturer's recommended fluid leaves you wide open to all sorts of legal recourse relating to health & safety, reliability of your machine and servicing costs. It simply isn't worth the risk.

Do smoke machines make you cough?
No they should not - and if you have experienced coughing it may be due to the operator using the incorrect fluid or a cheap 'generic' smoke fluid to save money - something we strongly advise against (see question above). If you have a respiratory condition or are asthmatic, we don't recommend you enter into an environment containing dense smoke. Occasionally people will experience a psychosomatic reaction to seeing smoke and cough for the sake of it (even though the smoke isn't actually causing this reaction in a physical sense). Contrary to popular belief, our modern oil-based thermally generated smoke/haze systems such as the Phantom is least likely to affect those with a medical condition related to their respiratory system as it does not produce a hygroscopic particle (ie does not absorb moisture to make throats and eyes dry out). Contact us for more information.

How important are the quoted smoke output volume rates?
The smoke output rate, usually quoted in cubic feet or cubic metres per minute, are figures quoted by manufacturers of smoke machines to try and illustrate how much smoke their units can produce. However, the main issue is that no density level of the smoke in the volume is ever stated which makes these output rates rather useless and very often over-exaggerated. Unlike water or air, smoke can vary in density from very thin to extremely dense. So without mentioning how dense the smoke is inside that given output volume, what does it mean? Even a small smoke machine can produce 20,000 cfm, but the smoke spread out in a 20,000 cubic foot volume would be very thin. The volume figure does not state the density, ie how thick or thin, the smoke actually is within that volume of space, so technically would be correct! Whether you'd be too happy with a barely hazy density level if you were carrying out fire training or trying to visualise airflow is another matter. Without at least specifying a visibility level, any smoke output figure is speculative and not necessarily accurate nor constant with other manufacturers' figures. It is best to compare heat exchanger wattages for a more realistic comparison.

Can smoke be ducted down lengths of hose from your smoke machines?
In most cases yes, this is possible. In depth answer...

Can I use a smoke machine in the UK or Ireland since the public smoking ban?
The provisions of the Health Act 2006 inasmuch as smoking is concerned makes the possession of lit tobacco in a smoke-free place an offence. Therefore, the issue of smoke machines does not feature unless the smoke comes from lit tobacco - which - from any of our products - is not the case!

Are smoke machines toxic?
Not when you use the officially recommended fluid - we wouldn't be selling them if they were!
In depth answer...

Can I add scent / fragrance additives to smoke fluid so that it has an aroma?
We don't sell aroma additives for fog fluid because a technical report carried out by Brunel University on behalf of the Fire Brigade Union in the UK recommended that any additives added to smoke chemical to either add scent or colour the chemical should be removed, as a large number of these additives were found to be related to known carcinogens.
We are often asked about adding an electrical fault or burning smell to fluid, but another issue arises here - how do you know whether there is a real electrical fault or fire in your facility or whether it is the simulated aroma?

Do you sell second hand units?
Occassionally we do. These are usually ex-hire machines or units that have been discontinued or used for demonstrations. Please visit our clearance page to see the current list of items we have available. This list is updated in real-time, so if it's not on the list, we don't have it!

Can I put disinfectant in your smoke machines?
We are happy to provide smoke and aerosol generating equipment for customers to use with our water based smoke fluids whose active ingredients are recognised to have a bactericidal effect by their nature.
Customers can use their own disinfecting chemicals in the units, but in this case we can offer no warranty as to the safety, efficiency, flammability etc of the resulting fog and cannot warranty the equipment or its resulting effect as a consequence. The machine that could be most suitable for this type of application would be the Rocket with refillable canister(s) if using your own chemical or battery powered Mini Rocket for maximum portability.

Where are your smoke machines manufactured?
So that customers can make consciencious decisions when purchasing equipment, here are the locations where the smoke machines and fluids are made:

More specific questions

On this page we aim to answer as many of your smoke machine / fog generator questions as possible. There are a lot of questions, and we add to them often. We've tried to order them logically, but you may wish to do a "Find..." (Shortcut: Ctrl + F) word search with your internet browser to find just what you're looking for. If you have a question that you feel should be on this page, please let us know.

Click on a question below to view the answer.

Smoke machine basics:

What's the difference between a smoke machine and a fog machine?
What is a smoke machine?
How does a smoke machine work?
What makes the smoke?
How much do smoke machines cost?
Are smoke machines dangerous?
Are smoke machines a risk to health?

About Pea Soup:

Where can I buy a smoke machine?
Where can I hire a smoke machine?
Do you repair smoke machines?
Can I place my order over the internet?
Can I place my order without a credit/debit card?
I am not in the UK - do you export?

Specific applications:

Other Questions:

What do people use smoke machines for?
Which smoke machine do you recommend?
Why should I buy a professional machine instead of a cheaper version?
What safety advice is there for smoke machine use?
How long does the smoke hang in the air for?
How long do smoke machines take to heat up for operation?
Can I duct smoke down a length of hose?
How do I clean my smoke machine?
What is 'dry ice'?
What's the difference between dry ice, liquid nitrogen, oil and water based smoke machines?
How do smoke and fog chillers work?
What is a hazer?
What is the difference between a smoke machine and a hazer?
How much does smoke machine fluid cost?
Do I have to use the fluid that the manufacturer makes for my machine?
Why is smoke machine fluid so expensive?
Where does 'dry ice' get its name?
Can I buy smoke fluid that makes coloured smoke?
What are "intelligent lights"?
Are smoke machines suitable for use in areas of high humidity?

What's the difference between a smoke machine and a fog machine?

The terms 'smoke machine' and 'fog machine' both refer to the same type of unit.
'Fog machine' is the term used more in the United States, and 'smoke machine' is the term mainly used in the United Kingdom and Europe. Technically, the correct terminology is 'fog machine', as the dictionary definition of fog is 'liquid particles suspended in the air' (smoke/fog machines always vapourise liquid), whereas smoke is 'solid particles suspended in the air'. Tradition along with product descriptions over the decades has created this moniker foible.

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What is a smoke machine?

A smoke machine is an eletro-mechanical unit which produces clouds of smoke on demand. Smoke machines are used in theatres, nightclubs, film and television studios, theme parks and other entertainment applications to produce a smoke or fog effect which creates the illusion of fog, steam, smoke from a fire, and many other effects. They are also used to create 'safe smoke' in fire training scenarios, for leak testing of buildings and containers, testing efficiency of extraction systems and air flow in wind tunnels. Their size can range from that of a small water bottle to units that require mounting on a truck.

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How does a smoke machine work?

A smoke machine, in its simplest terms, is a heating element which gets very hot, through which special fluid is pumped and is vapourised, thereby creating smoke vapour which exits the machine through the nozzle. Electronic circuitry ensures that the heating block in the smoke machine is kept between certain temperatures - too hot and the machine can 'crack' the chemical put through it creating toxic elements (or worse, turns into a flame thrower) - too cold and it generates a wet fog that leaves residue, or shoots out hot liquid.

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What makes the smoke?

The most common type of smoke machine are those which use a water-based fluid, which is made up mainly of pharmaceutical grade glycol and water. There may also be other harmless chemicals in the fluid. Other types of smoke machine include dry ice machines which create a low lying heavy fog that uses dry ice (solid carbon dioxide), liquid nitrogen (which also creates a low lying fog), oil based smoke machines (similar in principle to water based machines, but uses an oil rather than a water base - the smoke can withstand much higher temperatures and is much more dense) and hazers (water based haze generators, mainly used to accentuate lighting than for conventional 'smoke' effects).

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How much do smoke machines cost?

Smoke machines range widely in price, but as the Romans used to say, "Talia expensa sic empta" - you get what you pay for! We supply machines by the most reputable and consistent companies who, from our own experience, have a proven track record for reliability and excellent service should the need arise.

It is not in our interest to supply smoke machines that are unreliable - so we simply don't!

Smoke machines that are capable of operating continuously at high output do cost more but always have the power available for larger and more varied applications and will never require a re-heat 'dead band'.

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Where can I buy a smoke machine?

Pea Soup directly supply the largest range of smoke machines in the UK and export around the world - view product list.

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Where can I hire a smoke machine?

Pea Soup hire out smoke machines in the UK - view smoke machine hire page.

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Do you repair smoke machines?

Pea Soup only repair the machines we sell. We can also supply spare parts only for the machines we sell. Please contact us for details. Sorry, we do not offer a repair service for the 'domestic'/home party smoke machines that we do not sell (ie SoundLab, ProSound, QTFX, KAM, Skytec, Argos, Maplin, etc.)

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Can I place my order over the internet?

Yes, for GB mainland delivery welcome online orders. We accept Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Visa Delta, Visa Electron, American Express, Discover, Diners Club, JCB and Eurocard. Click here to for ordering instructions.

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Can I place my order without a credit / debit card?

Yes. Once you have selected the machine, fluid and/or accessories you'd like, email or call us and we'll send you a quotation by email or fax for you to send a bank transfer or cheque payment. Full step-by-step instructions are on the how to order page. We also accept (and prefer) payment via BACS bank balance transfer. Contact us for the details.
Public Sector: We accept Purchase Orders.
Large Companies: First 3 orders must be paid proforma. Please email your purchase order to us. The minimum net order value for purchase orders paid on account is £150.00 ex. VAT.

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Do you export your products overseas?