FAQS: Misting Systems

What is a misting system and what does it do?
Misting systems include a length of tubing, specially designed misting nozzles, and a high pressure pump designed to increase the water pressure to 1,000 pounds per square inch (PSI). At this pressure, the water is atomized into micron size droplets that flash evaporate and create significant
temperature reduction.

When used in an enclosed environment, such as a greenhouse, the system will initially create cooling. Over time, the humidity level increases beyond the saturation point and high levels of humidity can be artificially created and maintained. This is especially useful for greenhouse propagation, removal of static electricity in electronics production facilities, or removal of dust and odors for many industrial and agricultural applications.

How does misting work?
Misting systems provide outdoor cooling through evaporation. Evaporative cooling, or Thermal Dynamics, is a very simple process. Water requires energy to evaporate (600 calories of heat per gram of water). As the misting evaporates, the energy exchange results in temperature reductions. It is dependent on the existing temperature and humidity. The effectiveness of the cooling process improves as the temperature rises (85°F / 29°C to 115°F / 46°C is ideal) and the humidity level drops (above 90% humidity - performance is marginal; 40% to 90% humidity - performance is good; below 40% humidity - performance is excellent). The expected temperature drop will vary depending on the climate conditions, but cooling up to 40°F / 22°C is achievable under ideal circumstances.

I live in a humid climate. Will the system work for me?
Yes. The evaporative cooling concept will work any time you are able to achieve evaporation. The more complete the evaporation, the more effective the system will work. For areas with humidity above 90%, temperature reductions of up to 10°F / 6°C are achievable; for humidity levels between 40% and 90% humidity, temperature reductions of 20°F / 11°C are achievable; for humidity levels below 40%, temperature reductions of 40°F / 22°C are achievable.

How should the system be installed?
For outdoor cooling applications, the system should be mounted around the perimeter of the area to be cooled making sure that all open sides are covered with misting. The system should be mounted between 8 feet and 10 feet / 2.4m and 3m off the ground.

How should the system be designed?
There are many different variables associated with the proper design and installation of a misting system. The exact application, the needed benefits, and the conditions present at the system location will determine what design is required. Our Technical Support Staff are trained in all aspects and uses of misting systems and can assist in designing a system that fits the needs of any misting application. Contact us at info@a2zmisting.com for more information.

How much water does a misting system actually use?
This will vary depending on the size of the system and the number of nozzles to be used. A typical system utilizing our 012" / .03mm orifice nozzle and our 1000 PSI / 70 BAR Premium or Professional pump will use approximately .030 GPM /.114 LPM per nozzle. With a system that has 30" / 76cm nozzle spacing, this equates to a perimeter system of 80 feet / 24 meters with 32 nozzles using only .96 GPM / 3.6 LPM.

Is there any maintenance required?
The only maintenance required for a properly designed misting system is a periodic cleaning of the nozzles and an annual check-up for the pump. This check-up may include adding or changing of the oil and tightening or replacing of fan belts (only on the pulley driven pump models), and changing of the filter cartridge.