How to Fix a Fog Machine

Fog machines are often used by "haunters" to add atmosphere to Halloween displays.

Fog machines are often prone to failure due to the seasonal nature of their usage. The easiest way to avoid costly or time-wasting repairs is to care for the machine by refilling fluid often and removing the fluid from the machine before putting into storage. The most common problem with consumer fog machines is "spitting" fog, or lower fog production than usual. Both of these issues can often be fixed by thoroughly cleaning your fog machine.

Things You'll Need

• 1 gallon distilled water
• 1 gallon fog fluid
• Manufacturer's instructions

Instructions

1. Check your manufacturer's instructions for cleaning instructions; each machine differs.

2. Remove all fog fluid from the machine tank and store in a separate container. Refill your tank with distilled water and turn on your machine. After warming up, your machine will begin to produce a light vapor.

3. Allow the vapor to continue for two to three minutes, then shut off the machine and allow it to cool. Remove and discard the distilled water.

4. Refill the machine with a 50/50 mixture of fog fluid and distilled water. Turn on the machine and wait for vapor to come out of the nozzle.

5. Allow the machine to run for one minute, then turn off and wait for it to cool down. The 50/50 mixture can be left in the machine for storage or removed and replaced with fog fluid for continued use.

Tips & Warnings

• Some manufacturers will suggest cleaning your fog machine with vinegar. This should only be used as a last resort for removing heavy mineral deposits. Using vinegar in a fogger may permanently damage internal parts.

• Always follow manufacturer's instructions for cleaning/repairing your fog machine.

• Never attempt to operate your fogger without fluid or with a fluid designed for a different machine, as this can severely damage the machine and void most warranties.

• Allow your fog machine to cool thoroughly before attempting to clean or repair.

References

• Got Fog?: Fog Machine FAQs
• Horrorseek: Glycol Foggers

Resources

• Horrorseek: Ressurecting a Fog Machine