A smoke or fog machine isn't just a great gadget for spreading ambience-enhancing smoke, but also serves to support your spotlights and light effects. Thanks to the smoke or mist produced by a fog machine, any light beams and lasers are much easier to see and will have a much bigger impact during your light show.
Buying a Smoke Machine
If you're thinking about picking up a smoke machine, there are a few things you'll need to pay attention to. First off, think about your needs and consider the size and the kind of space you're planning to use it in. The next step is to look for a machine that's a good match in terms of size, power capacity (in Watts) and features. Prefer a machine with built-in light effects? No problem, there are various smoke machines equipped with integrated party lights. Another important point to consider is the kind of smoke you want, in other words: the kind of fog juice you're going to need. Bear in mind that some fluids are water or glycerine-based while others are oil-based, and not every machine is compatible with every kind of smoke fluid. Read more about smoke fluid below or head straight to our extensive range of smoke machines.
Smoke Fluids
Depending on your machine, you can use a number of different types of fog juice, either water-based or oil-based liquids. Water-based smoke fluid is the most affordable option, which won't leave any residue behind as long as there’s proper ventilation. Traditional fog juice is always water-based but also contains glycols to guarantee proper smoke plumes. To boost the impact of light effects, a light mist is better than high-density smoke and can be achieved by combining a standard fog machine with something like a stage fan.
If you want the smoke or mist to stick around, you'll want to use smoke fluid based on mineral oils. While this stuff is a bit more pricey, it's the go-to for professionals since it doesn't limit your vision, meaning that any spectators on a balcony will be able to see what's happening on stage without missing the highlighted bundles of light. As always, make sure to set any high-output smoke machine up in a space that's large enough and ensure sufficient spreading. If used correctly, the compatible kind of smoke fluid won't have any negative effects (e.g. leave behind residue, greasy surfaces, slippery floors, etc).
How long the smoke or mists lasts doesn't depend on the machine, but depends on the liquid, the intensity (or density) of the output and the way it spreads throughout the room. See our range of smoke fluids.
BeamZ and Other Affordable Smoke Machines
BeamZ is one of the most popular brands in the world of foggers and smoke machines. Their affordable units usually run on water-based smoke fluids, are easy to use, and often come including a convenient remote control. Popular budget smoke machines are sold by Ayra, while Antari is a go-to for countless professionals.
Mini Smoke Machines
Compact smoke machines are also extremely popular. They're great in smaller spaces, easy to get from A to B and don't take up much space. In addition, these machines often come complete with fog juice and can be used out of the box. The amount of time it takes for a room to fill with smoke depends on the output capacity of the machine and the time it takes to re-heat.
Battery-Powered Smoke Machines
Portable smoke machines are often battery powered, giving you the benefit of cable-free operation. These units are easy to transport and quick to set up at locations like photo or film shoots where you won't find any mains power sockets, but don't expect battery-powered smoke machines to be able to fill a club with smoke.
Remote-Controlled Smoke Machines
While entry-level smoke machines usually come with a wired remote control, the higher-priced models often support wireless remote control. Visit our Remote-Controlled Smoke Machines section to browse all models.
DMX-Controlled Smoke Machines
The DMX protocol opens up the option of taking remote control over your smoke machine in conjunction with your lighting gear. In most cases, this means control over the intensity of the output. DMX support can even be offered by budget smoke machines, and all you basically need is a DMX input and a DMX controller. That said, DMX is mainly used by industry professionals so, if you're a hobbyist who only throws smaller parties, you probably don't need a DMX-ready smoke machine. Heard enough? Head to our range of DMX-compatible smoke machines.
LED-Equipped Smoke Machines
Some smoke machines are equipped with LEDs or built-in effects and are able to simulate fountains, flames or highlighted CO2-effects. Have a look at our assortment of smoke machines with built-in lights.
Setting Up a Smoke Machine in the Living Room
In most living rooms, a light mist is enough to get the house-party started. But not before proper ventilation is taken care of to avoid a build-up of smoke or residue! To find a living-room-friendly smoke machine, go to our complete range of smoke machines and filter the results for less output and a lower price.
The Difference Between Smoke Machines and Fazers
Fazers are basically smoke machines with a built-in fan, allowing them to produce a lighter mist when compared to most standard smoke machines, which spew thicker plumes of smoke. Fazers are generally better equipped to produce a low-output for longer periods of time without re-heating in between; they're also the better choice for DJs and mobile performers who prefer light shows with depth, dynamics and ambience over dense smoke plumes.
Compact Smoke Machines
Compact smoke machines are particularly popular for smaller parties. These plucky little units are easy to get around and set up, after which they warm up in no time. A small fog machine for casual events can be picked up for less than £100.
Frequently Asked Questions About Smoke Machines
Are smoke machines harmful?
Many people wonder whether smoke machines are bad for their health, which is a legitimate question since the generated smoke that gets inhaled contains additives like glycols or glycerine, which are essential ingredients for smoke output. Fortunately, the substances in smoke fluid are safe as long as smoke effects are only used to support the show, which is to say people should never be covered in smoke from dusk till dawn. Proper ventilation is a must in any case.
How does a smoke machine work?
It's simple. After the right fluid is put into the tank, the machine will need to be hooked up to mains power so it can pre-heat like an oven. Once the machine is warmed up, the output can be dialled in using a fitted set of controls, a DMX controller or a remote control. The built-in water-pump then takes care of suction and heating, pressurising the liquid and causing it to vaporise.
Are smoke machines expensive?
Prices vary greatly depending on the model. A modest smoke machine for house-parties can be picked up for a couple of tenners. More power, flexibility and functionality obviously costs more.
How often does a smoke machine have to be cleaned?
It's hard to say. Most manufacturers also disapprove of third-party smoke machine cleaning solutions due to the risk of damage. As such, always read the included user manual for more information on safe maintenance.
Which smoke machine should I get?
First, decide what kind of machine matches your situation. If you need something for a small party, a compact, basic machine will do the trick, but if you're a DJ or travelling entertainer, a fazer would be a better choice. Take the size of the room into consideration and ask yourself whether you want the smoke to stick around for a while or fade quickly, and whether it should be dense smoke or a light mist.
