Low-lying fog machines create a thick cover of fog that hovers just above ground level. Unlike traditional fog machines, the white clouds generated from low-lying fog machines do not rise nor dis. As a result, they are capable of tweaking the ambiance in a space without infringing on guests’ visibility. Low-lying fog machines create some impressive effects. They’re perfect for dances, parties, and other gatherings. Here’s what you need to know before you invest in one of these amazing units.
Before you dig in, here’s a preview of our top low-lying dog machine picks.
Our Top Low Lying Fog Machines
| Image | Product |
|---|---|
Best Overall  | ADJ Products Low-Lying Fogger (Entour Chill)
|
Best Upgrade Option  | CHAUVET DJ Fog Machine (The Cumulus)
|
Best for Tours  | ADJ Low Lying Fog Machine (Entour Ice)
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Best Budget Pick  | SFX 1500-Watt Low Fog Machine Dry Ice
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Best Onboard DMX  | StarLight Low-Lying Digital Fog Machine
|
ADJ Products Low-Lying Fogger (Entour Chill) – Best OVerall
Topping off our list of the best low-lying fog machines is ADJ Products’ continuous output fogger, the Entour Chill. The Chill uses less power than many of the other industrial-grade foggers on our list.
However, the 800-watt unit manages to cover large areas of ground in impressive fog-like vapor.
The Entour Chill has two individual tanks, including one for regular ice and another for fog fluid. There’s also a built-in water drain that channels excess water into a conveniently located plastic drainage bag. The unit is compatible with most standard water-based fog juice formulas and regular ice.
A Premium Design
A new and improved heating unit keeps the Entour Chill’s heating times quick (no more than 3 minutes) and stays hot even longer (it has a maximum continuous runtime of 1 hour). An LED heating indicator lets you know exactly when the unit’s ready to go. A fixed red light indicates that the unit is heating. A fixed green light indicates that the unit is ready to use. Finally, a flashing red light indicates that the fog fluid tank is low.
Users can start and stop the flow of fog with the help of the unit’s wired remote control. Onboard knobs allow users to control the blast time and output. Check out video to see just how easy it is to get the Entour Chill up and running.
The ADJ fogger measures 16.5-by-11.69-by-10.75 inches and weighs just over 17 pounds. It has a sleek, black plastic exterior with a rectangular output on the front, an ice hopper on the back, and a small fixed handle on the top. Consumers find the ADJ easy to set up and operate. With a little help from this low-lying fog machine, audiences and guests will feel as though they’re walking on clouds!
PROS:
- 800 watt consumption for ample power alongside mostly modest energy consumption
- Features two separate tanks (one 1-liter ice hopper and one 2.5 killigram fog fluid tank
- Water drainage valve with inlet to plastic bag for easy disposal and cleanup
- New and improved heater system reduce startup time (heats in three minutes)
- Runs for a maximum of one hour
- Uses standard water-based fog juice (recommend juice: ADJ Kool Fog) and regular ice
- Onboard LED heat indicator
CONS:
- Pricey
CHAUVET DJ Fog Machine (The Cumulus) – Best Upgrade Option
If you’re an experienced DJ or mobile performer, then the Chauvet’s Cumulus might be the perfect low-lying fog machine for you. The water-based low-lying fog machine generates dense, ground-hugging clouds. You can control the fog output by toggling the settings on the onboard digital display. Moreover, you can pair the fog machine and any other special effects you plan on using with an outboard DMX console.
The machine runs on water, which means there’s no need for expensive and hard-to-acquire dry ice.
This box-shaped unit is built on top of four steel caster wheels. This makes it super easy to wheel the unit in and out of just about any performance space. It boasts an internal ultrasonic agitator that converts distilled water and fog fluid into a thick mist. This artificial smoke will engulf your dance floor or cemetery display in a matter of seconds.
The unit boasts a 0.9-gallon fog fluid tank as well as a 2-gallon ice hopper. A rugged flight case makes transportation easy. You can lock the caster wheels in place once you’ve positioned the unit in your chosen location. The unit is 25-by-16-by-18 inches. It weighs just a little under 60 pounds.
This colossal fog machine doesn’t doddle. In fact, it manages to heat up to its running temperature in under 3 minutes. After that, is capable of producing up to 10,000 cubic feet of fog each minute. It consumes approximately 12 millimeters of fog fluid and 120 milliliters of water per minute. Runtimes can be set at 5 seconds to 1-minute intervals. A full tank lasts for hours regardless of settings you choose.
It also comes with a standard cumulus hose for even more discreet smoke distribution. The unit is quiet and easy to conceal. While it is CE-certified, it is only approved for indoor use.
PROS:
- Can be paired with a standard DMX controller
- High-capacity water and fog fluid tanks for uninterrupted low-lying fog displays
- No need for dry ice!
- Durable flight case with metal edges and lockable caster wheels
- Heats up fast while offering long runtimes
CONS:
- Not suitable for outdoor use
- Bulky
ADJ Low Lying Fog Machine (Entour Ice) – Best for Tours
This version of ADJ’s Entour Ice was built to handle the toll of tours. It is made to produce that sort of eerie, graveyard-style low-lying fog that is typically found at haunted houses. The Entour has a massive output potential, Its normal fog yield spans 5,920 square feet. As such, we think it’s safe to say it’s a wonderful upgrade for any stage performer or DJ.
The Enntour’s electronic temperature control system prevents the unit from overheating.
Meanwhile, an onboard LCD screen serves to remind users when the water tank is running low. Users also have the option to control the machine’s output from a distance with the help of an included remote control.
Amongst Entour’s many advanced technologies is a built-in timer. This feature enables users to release fog at intermittent stages. The machine runs on water and dry ice. Since the dry ice is stored in an isolated insulated tank, it can be loaded up to 10 hours before a performance. There’s absolutely no risk of premature smoke production.
This unit also comes with a 5-foot hose and an output deflector nozzle. These accessories enable you to place the Entour out of sight. With your fog machine hidden from plain view, your low-lying clouds are sure to look even more mesmerizing and mysterious.
PROS:
- Inlcudes a 5-foot house and output deflector nozzle for easy out-of-sight positioning
- Durable case and caster wheels make this an excellent choice for tour-based and mobile performers
- Seperate insulated dry ice tank means you can load your ingredients up to 10 hours before a performance
- 5-pound dry ice bucket and 8.5-gallon water tank
- No premature fog
CONS:
- Heavy (weighs 72.8 pounds with wheels and no cover)
SFX 1500-Watt Low Fog Machine Dry Ice – Best Budget Pick
The SFX is a low-lying fog machine with the potential to produce up to 18,000 cubic feet of low-lying fog per minute. At such a rate, you should have no trouble setting the stage for your next performance. The SFX is an excellent asset for mobile entertainers, DJs, and event hosts.
The unit uses standard fog juice and regular ice cubes to create luxurious and long-lasting low-lying clouds. A built-in DMX control ensures that this incredible machine can be coupled with a range of other special effect machines and stage lights. The device also comes with wireless and wired remotes. As such, you should have no trouble controlling the fog from a distance.
With a warmup time that’s guaranteed to be less than 10 minutes, you needn’t prep the SFX in advance.
The ice hopper and fog fluid tanks can hold a generous amount of material. The unit’s metal exterior is durable enough to withstand regular use.
Easy to Setup
This 1,500-watt unit is super easy to setup. It has a large-capacity flip-top ice hopper as well as a generous outboard fog juice reservoir. The power cable, DMX cables, and manual control mounts are all positioned on the back of the unit. They are located alongside a guarded ventilation fan.
Difficult to Discern
While this magnificent unit gets rave reviews, it’s difficult to discern the manufacturer and brand name. Moreover, you have very little control over the output and duration of your fog. Still, it produces a generous amount of low-lying fog without the assistance of dry ice or external chilling machines.
The unit measures 11.42-by-6.3-by-0.98 inches and weighs just under 3 pounds. It is an incredibly quiet machine. It is capable of producing uniform, ground-hugging clouds that are sure to boost the aesthetic of just about any spooky or strange scene. The thing that sets this machine apart from the rest is its incredibly low price. If you’re willing to accept this no-name staging element for what it is, you are sure to save yourself hundreds of dollars.
PROS:
- 1,500-watt motor for impressive and wide-spread coverage
- Perfect for staging weddings, dance floors, clubs, etc.
- Durable steel casing makes it a real road dog
- At just 4.4 pounds, this unit is super easy to transport and positon
CONS:
- Little-known manufacturer
- No brandname
StarLight Low-Lying Digital Fog Machine – Best Onboard DMX
The StarLight Low-Lying Digital Fog Machine features an onboard DMX controller that enables users to control both the fog output and the onboard fan. This machine uses 1,200 watts of power to generate roughly 10,000 square feet of low-lying fog per minute. This sort of rapid and complete coverage makes for stunning parties, dances, concerts, and more. The unit comes with a wired remote. The control’s 33-foot cord ensures that DJs and other production managers can control the machine’s output from a distance.
The Starlight is incredibly easy to setup.
You just add ice and fog fluid to the designated tanks and wait approximately 5 minutes for the unit to heat.
A Rugged Beast
The Starlight was built to withstand the wear and tear of constant tours. A removable power cord and durable metal casing make it a road warrior.
We love the fact that this unit is compatible with regular ice and water-based fog fluid. In our humble opinion, the Starlight’s fog output is just as dense and low-lying as any dry-ice byproduct.
PROS:
- Digital drive for next-generation entertainment
- 1,200 watts of power for longer and more productive runrtimes
- Weighs jus 46 pounds
- Generates up to 10,000 cubic feet of fog per minute
- 5-minute warmup time and 30 second re-heat time
- Onboard DMX and remote with timer
CONS:
- Poor instruction quality
- No warranty
How to Choose the Best Low-Lying Fog Machine
Low-lying fog machines create marvel and mystery But, if you’re new to the entertainment game, shopping for one can prove to be a major headache. Here’s what you need to know before you set out in search of a unit.
How Do They Work?
Low-lying fog machines use either regular or dry ice to rapidly cool fog fluid. This causes the tiny moisture particles to sink to the ground level. Unlike ordinary fog machine smoke, this dense aerial display will not rise before dissipating.
What Are They Used For?
There’s no limit to where and how you can use a low-lying fog machine. Here’s a list of some of the most popular uses for these special effects devices:
- Haunted houses, graveyard scenes, and other Halloween setups
- Dance floors, clubs, stages, and other entertainment venues
- Weddings, parties, and other special events
Dry Ice vs. Regular Ice
Keep in mind that low-lying fog machines require either regular or dry ice for cooling. Both materials are difficult to source and even more challenging to transport. Dry ice sends to produce longer-lasting, thicker clouds. However, it is also pricier, harder to find, and more hazardous than regular ice. Of course, ordinary ice poses its fair share of inconveniences too. It’s consumed rapidly and produces a substantial amount of runoff.
If you find yourself stuck choosing between the two, go ahead and opt for a low-lying fog machine that’s compatible with both types of ice.
Drainage
Water is a natural byproduct of low-lying fog. If you opt for a machine that uses regular ice, make sure that it has a drainage pipe and some sort of plastic catch basin. Unmanaged runoff is nothing but a major nuisance and safety hazard.
Ease of Use
Chances are good that your fog machine is only one element of your display or performance. Make sure that the unit you select is easy to set up and adjust. Dense, high-volume fog shouldn’t be time- or labor-intensive. DMX controllers and remotes give you the ability to manage your fogger from a distance.
Fog Output
Be sure to check your machine’s estimated output. Most industrial-grade low-lying fog machines can produce 10,000 to 25,000 cubic feet of fog per minute. A fogger with a high output rate is guaranteed to fill a space quickly and efficiently. With that said, timers and controls enable you to control the density and consistency of your cumulus clouds.
Without controllable parameters, high-output foggers could prove to become hazards.
Weight and Dimensions
Don’t forget to explore the weight and dimensions of your prospective fog machine. If you’re a mobile entertainer, you’re going to want a fogger that’s light enough to lift in and out of a vehicle. Ideally, your unit should also boast lockable casters. This way you can roll the unit into place, set it, and forget it.
Controls and Remotes
Fog machines may be controlled via onboard buttons, remote controls, or outboard DMX controllers. Most people appreciate having the option to control their fogger from a distance. Regardless of what controller you are using, you should enable to adjust the density and frequency of your fog.
If you’re looking to use your fog machine with other stage lights and effects, then a DMX cable input is a must. A DMX connection will enable you to pair your fogger and any other special effects you’re using with an outboard control console.
Tank Capacity
Most low-lying fog machines have two separate tanks, including one for ice and another for fog fluid. Check the capacity of the tanks as well as the fogger’s consumption rates. These calculations will help you determine how long it will take for your machine to burn through a full tank of fog juice.
Wrapping Up
Low-lying fog machines have just one job. That is to simply create the sort of ground-hugging clouds that dominate moody dance scenes, spooky graveyard plots, and spooky bog-like settings. After careful consideration, we’re happy to announce that the winner of this roundup as the ADJ Products Low-Lying Fogger ( aka the Entour Chill).
ADJ Products Low-Lying Fogger (Entour Chill)
Check Price
This 800-watt device is capable of producing copious amounts of low-lying fog. It has an incredibly short warm-up time. Moreover, you can access all its controls through a conveniently located onboard LCD screen. Its rugged, fire-resistant plastic case and remote control make it the perfect pick for theatrical productions, concerts, and on-the-fly entertainment.
Thanks for joining us for yet another product roundup! You know have the insight you need to choose the best low-lying fog machine for your entertainment business.
Hi, I’m seeking for a machine that can create the low-lying, floor-hugging fog effect. Any advice is appreciated.
What you’re looking for is a fog machine. The most widely employed technique to produce fog is the cooling of water to below its boiling point (20 degrees Celsius) using a device called an “effect smoke generator”. This produces two effects: First, the water vaporizes and becomes a gas; second, this gas cools further as it moves through your air space. This results in condensation of liquid into tiny droplets that mimic the visual properties of fog. The effect has been used in theater and movies for years and can be found inside many commercial machines on the market today. Try ADJ Products Low-Lying Fogger.
Do you know if the fluids used in ground foggers and regular foggers are different?
At the present time it is not known if aerosolized fluids used in ground foggers are different from those used in regular foggers. It would be interesting to conduct such a comparison.
Fogging is often done by a contractor using specialized equipment, the size and type of which depends on the size of the area being fogged. Often there are many acres involved.
Larger volumes of insecticide (in liquid form) are placed in spray tanks mounted on trucks or trailers. The volume will depend both on how large an area is to be fogged, and also on the toxicity of the chemical to be applied.
In general, however, we know that many of the solvents and propellants used in both types of products have been linked to cancer or neurotoxicity. The US Department of Health and Human Services has declared several of these compounds as carcinogens under conditions where exposures occur over long periods (10-15 years). This means that when an individual uses a ground fogger on a regular basis every spring and summer they may actually increase their risk for cancer with respect to other people who might have otherwise used the product.
What are the most effective low fog machines on the market? Is there anything that doesn’t need dry ice or CO2? What is the best liquid for producing results?
What are the most effective low fog machines on the market?
There are several factors that determine a machine’s effectiveness at creating low fog. To begin, there are two types of machines for indoor use: Air-fed machines and air-aspirated inducers.
Air-Aspirated Inducing (AAI) machines rely on fan forced air to move the “fog” through the room. They can be effective in open spaces but do not work well in smaller areas with obstructions such as curtains or other furniture where the “fog” might get stuck. These are lower cost units because they have smaller motors than air fed units and less powerful fans to drive the fog into the area.
Air Fed units provide their own source of forced air and come in various sizes from about 100 CFM to 500 CFM. They can be mounted on the wall above or built into the ceiling. The “fog” is created by passing water through a series of very small holes in a plate called a fogger creating droplets 1-5 microns in size, about the same size as dry ice “smoke”. These machines come with either an internal pump for re-circulating water pumped up from below or gravity feed where the water is dropped into an external reservoir and gravity pulls it back down through the fogger.
Smaller units such as those from American DJ, Chauvet, Elation Professional, Showtec have been among industry standards for many years because they are reliable and relatively inexpensive while still being powerful enough.
Is there anything that doesn’t need dry ice or CO2? What is the best liquid for producing results?
Dry ice is sold in blocks and pellets. It can be “stacked” to make a larger amount of the ultra-cold dense smoke. It has many uses but low fog machines are one of them. The challenge with dry ice (regardless of brand) is that it needs to be handled carefully as it can burn skin and if enough pressure builds up, even explode (and your venue will get the bill for all repairs). Dry ice also sublimates from solid directly to gas so it will disappear pretty quickly from a small machine.
If you don’t need large quantities of fog CO2 may not be necessary at all. Some units simply use hot water which evaporates like any other liquid when it gets too warm or blows it through a fogger for smaller areas.
CO2 is sold in cylinders to dispense carbonated beverages like soda from at home, to make dry ice and as a fire extinguisher agent. There are some concerns that the release of CO2 into an area can cause asphyxiation (i.e. people dying in basements) so they require special vents for outdoor use but with proper ventilation no issues exist indoors.