ULV, Fogging, and Misting
Understanding differences between ultra-low volume, thermal fogging, and cold fogging aerosol applications - each suited for specific situations.
Detailed Overview
Three aerosol application methods often confused but distinct: (1) ULV (Ultra-Low Volume): specialized equipment produces 5-30 micron droplets that remain airborne contacting flying insects. Used for mosquito adulticiding from trucks, greenhouse pest control. Minimal residual. (2) Thermal fogging: heats insecticide creating visible smoke-like fog. Droplets 1-50 microns. Used for outdoor mosquito control at special events, severe fly problems in barns, perimeter vegetation treatments. Dramatic visual effect. (3) Cold fogging (misting): mechanical atomization without heat creating fine mist. Used for perimeter vegetation, crawlspace applications, outdoor mosquito treatments. Advantages: rapid coverage of large areas, reaches pests in vegetation, provides immediate knockdown. Limitations: minimal residual (hours not days), weather dependent, drift concerns, not IPM-appropriate for indoor use. Professional use: special events requiring immediate relief, severe outdoor infestations, pre-treatment before residual applications. Customer education critical - fogging appears impressive but provides only temporary knockdown, not long-term solution. Often overused by homeowners (bug bombs) with poor results. PCO use limited to specific situations where rapid knockdown needed over large area.
When to Use
Limited professional use for specific situations: outdoor mosquito adulticiding, special event mosquito control, severe fly problems outdoors, greenhouse applications. Not for routine pest control.
Required Skill Level
Should only be performed by licensed pest management professionals
Benefits
- Rapid coverage of large outdoor areas
- Impressive visual demonstration of service
- Immediate knockdown of flying insects
- Reaches pests in dense vegetation
- Useful for special events
Limitations
- Minimal residual protection
- Weather dependent - wind disrupts application
- Drift can affect non-target areas
- Temporary solution requiring repeat applications
- Not IPM-appropriate for most situations
- Environmental concerns with overuse
Related Concepts
Other techniques that may be useful
Crack and Crevice Treatment
Pesticide application method that places insecticides directly into cracks, crevices, and voids where pests hide, minimizing exposure to people and pets.
HEPA Vacuuming
Non-chemical pest removal using High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) vacuum cleaners to physically remove pests, eggs, droppings, and allergens.
Steam Cleaning
Non-chemical pest control using high-temperature steam to kill pests, eggs, and larvae on contact.