Frequently Asked Questions about Misting Systems
Mar 17th 2017
Is it too humid where I live to use misting?
If properly designed and installed, a high pressure (1000 PSI) mist cooling system can be very effective for residential, commercial and industrial applications even in high humidity. Various geographical regions have specific summer weather inherent to their climate. When designing a system you must take into account the specific conditions associated with the area you are trying to cool. For example in arid conditions more water can accepted into the air than in a more humid environment. Hydromist engineers can help in determining the proper water flow levels for your region.
What is the key difference between a low pressure mist system and a high pressure mist system?
A low pressure mist system is based on using standard hose or tap pressure (30-60psi). Although inexpensive (Less than $500) they lack the key element that makes misting effective. These systems, which are typically sold in home centers and big box stores are also known for getting you and the environment “wet”.Without high pressure the water cannot be atomized into small droplets, which causes the cooling effect of “flash evaporation”. High pressure mist systems operate at 1000psi or more, thus enabling the water to be vaporized and ensures the driest and most effective cooling possible.
What is the difference between a Hydromist Residential, Commercial and Industrial Mist Systems?
The main difference between the three systems is the structural integrity, design and the size of the system. Typically the more fans you have the larger pump size you need to properly pressurize the number of nozzles per fan.Also a big determining factor is the fan head diameter (size), fan speed and durability to elements of outdoor exposure.For instance our residential and commercial fans are built with more design and ambience in mind where our Extreme Fans (Industrial Series) are built with more ruggedness and power.There are trade offs for each.In most cases smaller fans and pumps are quieter thus more suited for patios and restaurants where larger more powerful fans are generally used for cooling large outdoor venues, steel mills, warehouses, and factories where noise is not an issue.
Misting Fans Vs Misting Lines
The two most accepted mist applications are the misting line and the misting fan. The mist line is comprised of a series of misting nozzles in-line with one-another. This creates a curtain of mist which will cool the air. However a mist line relies on nature’s movement of air to cool the surrounding areas. A mist line is usually installed around a perimeter of a building or in an open (non-covered area). Mist lines will produce an ambient temperature drop of about 5-10 degrees. Mist lines work well in dry climates; they however are not as effective in humid climates.
A Misting Fan utilizes “flash evaporative cooling”. By introducing a mist system into the front of a fan you are moving the mist (flash evaporation) over a larger more direct area, The air movement generated by the fan creates a wind chill which will lower temperatures by as much as 25 degrees. When trying to cool a humid environment the mist fan is much more effective than a mist line. Hydromist specializes in the manufacturing of portable and mounted misting fans.
Are there any other benefits to a Misting System?
Besides comfort, the two biggest benefits are Environmental and Safety. Most high pressure misting systems use very little water and energy but in turn can create a cool environment that will cost you much less than AC and much cleaner than the use of a “swamp cooler.” A misted and cooled area, large or small has less dust, reduces odor, and is abatement to flying insects. Misting can also greatly reduce the risk of heat illnesses in young athletes and workers. Whether dealing with excessive heat on a football field, in a steel mill or factory, or on your back patio, misting can be a great solution in preventing heat exhaustion and heat stroke
If you have any more questions about Misting Fan cooling….Please call Hydromist 512 225-0923