Fog machines can be a great addition to parties, stage performances, and Halloween decorations. However, not everyone is quite sure how they work or what kinds of liquids can be used.
One question that often arises is whether or not water can be used in a fog machine. The answer to this question depends on the type of fog machine you have and the specific kind of effect you want to achieve.
In this article, we’ll dive into the details of using water in fog machines and help you determine if it’s possible for your particular situation.
Can You Use Water in a Fog Machine
The use of water in fog machines may vary depending on the device. While some models are compatible with water, others are not designed to work with it. The addition of distilled water to a smoke machine can result in a denser and longer-lasting fog than dry fog.
However, it’s important not to use mineral or tap water as they contain impurities that can harm the device. So before using water in your fog machine, ensure that it’s suitable for use with the particular model you own, and only use distilled water to avoid potential damage.
Will Water Damage Your Fog Machine
It’s important to be mindful of the type of water you use in your fog machine. While using distilled water is safe and won’t cause any harm to your fogger, mineral or tap water can contain impurities that may clog and damage your machine.
It is recommended to perform regular cleaning of fog machines, especially when using mineral or tap water, to extend their longevity.
How Do You Make Heavy Fog with Water
In order to produce a thick fog through water, modifications to the ratio of water and glycerin utilized in the fog machine are necessary. A typical water and glycerin mixture contains 20% glycerin and 80% water, but if you want to produce thicker and longer-lasting fog, increase the proportion of glycerin from 30%-35%.
It is important to note that an increased concentration of glycerin in fog fluid results in a decreased amount of water-based fog fluid remaining for future use in the plastic bottle. So it’s advisable to stock up on extra bottles of distilled water which can be stored separately from other supplies.
Can You Mix Water with Glycol
Mixing water with glycol is possible and in fact, it’s the most commonly used fluid to create dense fog. Glycol-based fog fluids are preferred over water-based ones because of their lasting effects. If you mix distilled water with glycol, it will result in high quality smoke that won’t disappear quickly.
However, if you prefer less dense fog, a mixture of 15%-20% glycol and 80%-85% distilled water is recommended.
It is important to take note that exposure to glycol-based fog may cause some side effects such as coughing, sneezing, and difficulty breathing – especially for people with asthma or other respiratory problems.
Is Water-glycerin Fog Fluid Safe to Breathe
According to experts, it’s generally safe to breathe in water-glycerin fog juice commonly used in fog machines. However, as a precautionary measure, it is advisable to employ a protective mask while operating the machine for an extended period and avoid inhaling near the device or its outlets.
People with underlying respiratory issues, such as asthma, should consult a doctor before using this fluid since they may experience an allergic reaction to its components. If you have any breathing problems, make sure to take appropriate precautions when using the water-glycerin fog fluid.
Conclusion
In conclusion, using water in a fog machine is not recommended and can potentially damage or ruin the machine entirely. It’s important to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use the proper fluid to ensure that your fog machine operates safely and effectively.
So, if you want to create that eerie misty atmosphere for your next event or production, remember to always use the correct fluid and never substitute with water. Stay safe, and let the fog roll in!
