Atmosphere can make or break an event, and having fog in the air makes all your lighting effects come to life. Whether you’re hosting a private party, corporate gathering, or live performance, fog, smoke, and haze machines can elevate the experience, adding drama, excitement, and a touch of magic. This guide will help you select the right machine, understand its features, and ensure safe, effective use.
What Are Fog, Smoke, and Haze Machines?
These machines are designed to create atmospheric effects that enhance the visual and emotional appeal of an event. By producing mist-like effects, they amplify lighting making the beams visible, or sets glow, set the mood, and transform spaces. Let’s break them down:
Fog Machines and Smoke Machines
Fog or Smoke Machine - two names for the same thing used interchangeably, if we have a lighter, more diffuse smoke, we tend to call it fog, and when the air is getting dense it looks like smoke but either way you press a button and get a jet of vapour that can be used as a special effect itself, or to accent the lighting filling the air.
Higher quality fog and smoke machines can be controlled and have variable output settings. They can be controlled with DMX lighting controllers and desks so they can be part of a programmed choreographed light show, or can be operated manually.
To mimic the effect of fog hugging the ground, when a low fog machine is used. The smoke is cooled right after it is vaporised using dry ice or a chiller built into a compartment in the machine. The fluid used is slightly different to normal smoke fluid formula creating a white, fast dissipating fog that crawls across, spreads over the floor and hugs the ground, but disappears as it rises. This creates a fog effect like C02, but is safer to use.
Designed for producing dense, low-hanging fog, these machines use water-based smoke/fog fluid and vaporise it through a heat exchanger. Ideal for theatrical performances, nightclubs, or dramatic event entrances for corporate events, fog machines create a striking and entertaining effect.
Smoke machines are used in stage shows, concert stages and dance performances, DJ gigs, bars, nightclubs and corporate events where the output required can be adjusted from fast, loud and furious billowing clouds of smoke to a softer understated vibe according to your requirements.
Haze Machines
Haze Machines are generally a lot quieter when operating than fog and smoke machines, these generate a fine mist that lingers in the air, less dense than smoke but exceptionally impactful in highlighting lighting effects and laser beams. Commonly used for theatre, concerts, dance floors, and stage performances where a more subtle fog effect is desired, or a less distracting and intense smoke effect, haze machines add depth and elegance to any event.
Haze Machines are always “ready to fog” because there is no heater block or strict temperature requirements.
Fazer Machines
You can guess - a Fazer is a cross between a fog machine and a hazer. A professional fog machine with variable volume output from 0 - 100%. It can create a reasonable blast of smoke, usually used for lower volumes of fog and uses a fan to assist dispersion of the fog in the air. Very quiet operation, but still subject to needing a heater block to vaporise the fog fluid. The effect is close to that of a professional haze machine.
What Is a Dry Ice Machine?
Dry Ice Machine
Dry Ice is the real deal for dramatic billowing low-lying cloud that spreads across the stage or floor and creates real fog people can walk through.
Generally quieter when operating than fog and smoke machines, these have a tank of water that is heated to boiling point and a basket that you fill with Dry Ice (C02 pellets) and gently lower into the boiling water. The dry ice vaporises very fast causing a high pressure cloud of cold steam to push itself down a hose and out to the dissipation area.
It is fast, effective and very impressive, but there are safety issues around having a tank of boiling water and pellets of dry ice on hand which will burn skin if touched or handled without protection.
It will not set off fire alarms or smoke detectors as the C02 dissipates, but you need to make sure it isn’t going to fill the orchestra pit with gas that displaces oxygen!
Commonly used for theatre, concerts, dance floors, and stage performances where a real fog effect is desired, but the low-fogger smoke machines are better suited to school performances and most events where you don’t want to deal with boiling water and other safety issues and getting hold of dry ice can be inconvenient for a 1-off event. Use a low fogger instead.
Where to Use Fog, Smoke, and Haze Machines
From corporate events to live performances, and even emergency training, these machines are versatile tools to create and enhance ambiance and captivate audiences. Here are some common applications:
Corporate Events & Conferences
In business settings, fog and haze machines can create dramatic effects for product launches, presentations, or performances. For instance, a burst of fog during a big reveal adds excitement, while subtle haze highlights branded lighting during keynote speeches. A vertical jet of fog can be lit up with a colour or strobe effect, and creates a disorientating effect and draws attention - like a C02 jet but safer.
Private Parties & Celebrations
Weddings, birthdays, and themed parties can all benefit from these machines. Imagine a low-lying fog adding an ethereal touch to a first dance or a smoke machine revving up the energy at a costume party. They’re also a staple for DJs and live music events, creating a perfect backdrop for the festivities.
Theatrical & Live Performances
Fog, smoke, and haze machines are essential for creating immersive settings in theater, concerts, and live shows. Haze amplifies lighting effects, while fog can simulate weather or add mystery to a scene. These machines bring a production to life, transforming a stage into whatever atmosphere the script demands.
Fire Training, Aircraft Evacuation and Pipe Leak Detection
Smoke machines are designed to fill the air with safe smoke. This has an application outside the entertainment industry in training firefighters and aircraft safety evacuation training. Powerful jets of dense smoke rapidly fill an aircraft frame, bus or train carriage. Using a slightly different fog formula a dense, slow dissipating but safe to breathe for longer periods smoke is created which is perfect for blocking out the like and mimicking a real smokey fire situation.
Also, getting smoke on demand to test pipes in air conditioning or other situations you have long pipes and want to find the leak.
Where to Use Dry Ice Machines
Theatrical & Live Performances and Corporate Events
Dry Ice machines can be used for authentic low fog effects in theater, concerts, and live shows. It isn;t for lighting effect augmentation, but can looks amazing if lit up with UV light or strobe lights as it permeates the stage. It is the authentic and original low-fog effect and if the script demands it, you can get it. Consider a low fogger if you don’t have ready access to the dry ice pellets.
How to Select the Right Machine
Choosing the right machine depends on the event’s needs, venue size, and the effect you want to achieve. Here’s how to make the best choice:
Event Type & Desired Mood
- For corporate events or conferences, a haze machine is ideal for subtle, refined effects that enhance lighting without obstructing visibility. It is usually used to set the scene for the opening ceremony or special part of the meeting and is less obtrusive.
- For private parties or celebrations, a fog or smoke machine can create dramatic moments, like a grand entrance or a magical first dance, and to add some more mist for the dancefloor lighting.
Venue Size & Layout
- For smaller, indoor spaces, a compact fog or smoke machine is sufficient.
- Larger venues or outdoor events require more powerful machines capable of producing greater volumes of mist or haze to fill the space effectively.
- Does the venue have a ventilation system that will rapidly remove the smoke? You’ll need more, and position the machine away from the extractors.
Specific Effect
- Choose a fog machine for dramatic, low-lying effects that evoke mystery or excitement.
- Opt for a smoke machine with output controls for lighter, more diffuse effects that enhance lighting without overwhelming the room.
- Use a haze machine to create an ambient, smoky backdrop that makes lighting effects shine, particularly on dance floors or concert stages.
- Dry Ice has its place for a low-fog special stage effect. If you can get hold of dry ice pellets and have suitably experienced operators then it is a fun experience. You also get to play with the left-over pellets putting them in glasses of water or in toilets (only for scientific experiments).
Key Considerations When Renting a Fog, Smoke Machine or Dry Ice
Machine Size and Power
Choose a smoke machine with a power output that matches your venue's size. Smaller spaces work well with low-wattage fog machines, while larger events require higher wattage for more impactful effects.
Also consider how important timing is for the burst of smoke. The cheaper budget type smoke machines do not have very sophisticated heat management built in, instead they rely solely on a thermostat. You plug them in, they heat up, and the thermostat maintains the heater temperature. Temperature of the heater is important; too hot and the fluid can be burned and produce carcinogenic byproducts, too cool and it doesn’t vaporise the fluid properly. You can end up with a big wet patch in front of the machine.
When you push that button to make fog on cue, you are hoping that the thermostat hasn’t cut output while the heater block is being heated up to spec.
The higher quality manufacturers, Antari for example, have sophisticated heat management circuitry to keep your smoke machine “ready to fog” most of the time so are more suitable for stage and corporate events when it is likely you want smoke exactly on cue.
For DJ and nightclub it probably doesn’t matter if you have to wait 20 seconds for it to warm up again.
This is also where it is important to heed the manufacturers’ suggested fog fluid formula recommendations as for a specific application a smoke machine might be adjusted to use a lower temperature fluid, or a higher one and the results will not be optimal.
Safety Precautions
Proper ventilation is essential when using fog, smoke, or haze machines, especially indoors. Overuse in small, poorly ventilated areas can lead to respiratory discomfort.
Use the right fluid - if you put oil based fluid in a water based fogger it’ll likely combust or carbonise in the heater block. This can create unwanted carcinogens, smells bad, and damages the machine.
Don’t add things to the fluid tank to change the scent unless it is designed for that purpose. As above additives and impurities will burn or solidify inside the heater block damaging or wrecking the machine.
Additionally, take measures to avoid triggering smoke alarms, particularly in venues with sensitive detectors. Find out from the venue you are using if the fire alarm will be triggered by smoke - have them disabled for your event if so.
Dry-Ice machines need careful handling. Dry Ice pellets can burn skin, as can boiling water used to vaporise the pellets. Only really suitable when supervised and operated by suitable competent persons.
Choosing the Right Fluid
Always use the fluid recommended by the machine’s manufacturer. Fog machines typically use water-based fluids, while haze machines require oil-based fluids, but there are water based haze fluids available. Using the wrong fluid can damage the machine or produce undesired results, but manufacturers like Antari make fluid that can be used in most machines with great results.
Renting Fog, Smoke, and Effects Machines for Your Event
Transform your event with high-quality fog, smoke, and haze machines for hire from Edwards Sound & Lighting. Our rental service takes the hassle out of event planning by providing delivery, setup, and on-site support, ensuring everything runs smoothly. Whether you’re organising a corporate conference or a private party, our team will guide you in choosing the perfect machine to suit your event’s specific needs.
Creating the Perfect Event Atmosphere
Fog, smoke, and haze machines are perfect for setting the mood and enhancing the ambiance of your event. By selecting the right equipment based on your venue size, event type, and desired effects, you can elevate your guests’ experience and leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re aiming to highlight dramatic lighting, create a mysterious vibe, or boost the energy in the room, these machines are essential tools. For the best results, consult with professionals who can recommend the ideal setup to bring your event vision to life.
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