What is a Microfogger? 10 Reasons You May Need One

By: Kevin
Date: May 26, 2023
Time to read: 10 min.

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Did you know you can walk with a fog machine in your pocket and produce fog whenever and wherever you want?

A microfogger is a small, battery-powered device that emits a fog of microscopic water droplets. If you need to produce fog for that video shoot or performance, this machine is a must-have. The microfogger is small enough to fit in your pocket; it weighs about 0.3kg and comes with a USB cable for recharging.

These are really amazing units and can be used just for fun or on a movie set. Let’s dive into more details about them.

Table of Contents

What is a Microfogger?

Think of a microfogger like a small fog machine that fits in your pocket and runs on batteries.

Some units can produce up to 4 minutes of fog, and they are very easy to operate. You can also attach a fogger onto your belt or wear it on your wrist like an oversized watch, making the device even more portable and discreet.

The power rating of this device is 12W, but this is adjustable to up to 80W. The fog emitter has a lifetime of up to 500 hours, which is pretty impressive for such a low-cost machine. Microfoggers are perfect if you need to produce fog in tight spaces or on the go.

Most use food-grade glycerin for the fog, but you will want to make sure your machine is using a safer alternative if that’s important for the situation.

Refilling the microfogger is easy. There is an included dropper bottle that makes the process even easier.

Just fill the dropper bottle with the fog liquid and pour it into the microfogger until you reach a line on the side of the device that indicates your desired amount of fog.

The main reason someone would want this device is that it’s portable and discreet. Suppose you’re looking to create natural or artificial atmospheric effects that look like smoke without filling the room with thick, heavy fumes while being able to travel around freely.

In that case, this might be what you need for your show production.

10 Reasons You May Need a Microfogger

There are various reasons you may want to purchase this device. Here are some:

1. Fewer Odors than Dry Ice Foggers

Most microfoggers use food-grade glycerin. The fog produced has fewer odors than when using other liquids in traditional fog machines. Also, the fog is less likely to irritate your skin and eyes.

2. Microfogger is Small and Portable

This device weighs just 0.3kg. This makes it extremely light and easy to carry.

It is also small enough that you can put it in your pocket, which makes it even more discreet. You can use it anywhere you want and produce fog for any event at any given time.

It offers a constant supply of fog as long as there is power due to its battery pack – no waiting for water vaporizers to release their payloads before starting an effect again.

3. Microfogger is Rechargeable and Easy to Use

Microfoggers are very easy to operate. They typically come with a USB cable for recharging the battery, which means you won’t have to worry about running out of power at an inopportune time.

It also takes just seconds for this machine to create fog–you’ll be able to create fog for the shoot or performance in no time at all.

4. Microfogger Doesn’t Use Much Space

This machine uses a lot less area than other equipment because it is small and lightweight, which makes it perfect if you need to produce this type of effect but don’t have enough room.

5. Microfogger is Affordable

This device costs between $100-$250 depending on the type of fogger chosen. This is one of the cheapest ways to produce a ton of fog quickly if needed for certain projects or events such as outdoor performances or video shoots.

You may not need this every day, but when you do need it, you’ll be glad you have the option at hand.

6. No Cords Required (Battery-powered)

The microfoggers are battery-operated, so there isn’t any cord hanging from them like traditional dry ice machines, making these devices very portable and convenient for mobility production needs.

7. Microfogger will Reduce the Costs of Hiring Fog Machines

Sometimes you may have a small party, and you don’t want to hire a fog machine, but you need the fog. With a microfogger, you will no longer need to hire a fog machine and can save some money in the process.

8. No Fire Hazard

Unlike gas-powered machines like propane tanks that can cause fires in the event of leakage or mishandling, the microfogger is powered by a lithium-ion rechargeable battery. It doesn’t use any heat, so you won’t have to worry about the machine catching fire.

9. Low Maintenance

This device doesn’t need to be cleaned often, and it’s small, so you can take care of any cleaning quickly or easily. You also won’t have to worry about handling the machine because there is no fire hazard like with most gas fog machines.

The microfogger is also easy to refill and provides tons of fog with just one use.

10. The Fog Produced by Microfoggers is Safe for Pets and Small Children

You don’t have to worry about pets or small children being in the same room as you when using a microfogger. The fog is safe for them and won’t irritate their skin, eyes, etc., which means they can be near it without any worries of inhaling harmful chemicals or otherwise risking bodily harm.

Microfogger FAQs

Can a Microfogger Trigger a Smoke Alarm?

If your microfogger produces enough smoke, then it can trigger photoelectric or ionization alarms. However, if you have a traditional heat-activated smoke alarm, then the microfogger won’t trigger it.

How much Smoke Does this Fog Machine Produce?

The smoke produced by this fog machine will vary depending on the type of liquid you use in it. If you use a water-based solution, there won’t be much, if any; however, using an alcohol-based product may cause more smoke because it is heavier than water and causes quicker evaporation. The amount of smoke will also change depending on the size of your room and what you are using it for.

What are the Pros and Cons of a Microfogger?

The pro is that these devices are very portable, easy to use, affordable, and won’t cause fires in most cases. The con would be if you only have photosensitive smoke alarms or need more than just one small machine for your event–you will either need multiple machines or hire someone with a gas-powered dry ice machine instead. Also, the smoke only lasts for 4 minutes before needing a refill.

Can I Breathe the Fog or Smoke from a Microfogger?

If the machine is operated properly, then the fog or smoke produced is safe to breathe and won’t cause any irritation to your skin, eyes, or lungs. However, it is still not safe to breathe the fog or smoke directly, especially if you have underlying breathing issues.

How Many Times will I have to Refill the Machine?

The amount of refills needed for each session is determined by a few things, including room size, what you are using it for (e.g., outdoor event vs. home party), and how long your sessions last, among other factors. If you use an alcohol-based liquid, then you’ll need more than one refill to produce enough fog for your event.

How do I Know When the Machine is Empty?

The microfogger will run out eventually and notify you with a beeping noise–just like any other electronic device that runs on batteries. If this happens, then it may also stop producing enough fog for your event.

What is the Best Solution to Refill a Microfogger?

You should use the liquid recommended by the manufacturer. However, most microfoggers use food-grade glycerine or glycerin with water as a base, so you can also use these if they are what is recommended by the manufacturer.

What is the Microfogger Smoke Made Out Of?

Most microfoggers use food-grade vegetable oil. Some may use alcohol, glycerin, or water.

Can I use Fog Liquid from Fog Machines in a Microfogger?

You can use these liquids, but they will be far less effective than recommended food-grade liquids. In fact, sometimes, you may not even get any smoke out of the machine at all. Also, the safety of the microfogger is only guaranteed if you use the recommended liquids.

What are the Risks with Using a Microfogger?

Some people may be allergic to different ingredients in these machines and the smoke that they produce. It’s important to read all of the instructions before using your machine for any event–even if it is a small, private one.

What Are Some Safety Precautions When Using Microfoggers?

The most important thing you can do to keep yourself safe and others around you as well is always follow manufacturer guidelines closely without question or change anything that could compromise its use (e.g., changing liquid type).

Conclusion

The microfogger is a great invention for those who want to create a thick, dramatic atmosphere but don’t have access to the money or space for one of the larger machines. It is versatile, affordable, and convenient.

You can use it for any occasion, and it is safe to use if you are careful about following all the manufacturer’s instructions and their liquids. Here is more information about what fog chemicals are safe to breathe in.

Kevin

Hello! I’m Kevin; I have been a content producer of Wild Fog since the start of this site. I have always enjoyed fun projects like fog machines and lasers. I will do my best to test out all the foggers and let you know which is best for you. Read more about us.

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