Common Problems When Using a Smoke Machine

On professional event stages, you'll often see smoke effects , creating a magical and enchanting atmosphere that enhances the stage's visual appeal. However, unless you're a professional, you probably don't know how a smoke machine works, what common problems arise during use, how to fix them, and how to extend its lifespan. Let's explore this in the following article.HSV MediaOkay!

HOW A SMOKE MACHINE WORKS

First, when you plug in the power and turn on the switch, electricity goes directly into the combustion chamber, heating it up. When it reaches a certain temperature, it signals the thermal relay, cutting off the power to the combustion chamber and sending a signal to the control panel, causing the buttons on the control panel to light up.

Next, the solution from the reservoir is pumped and pushed into the condenser unit. In the condenser, the solution is heated to a temperature of approximately 230°C (the solution completely vaporizes at this temperature). When it reaches 230°C, the sensor signals the control circuit, and heating stops. At this point, the pump increases the pressure and expels the smoke from the condenser unit.

Fogging machines of different capacities will be equipped with different pumps and condensers. The larger the condenser, the greater the fog output, while the size of the pump will affect the spray range and the intensity of the fogging.

Specifically for cold smoke machines (heavy smoke), they are equipped with an additional ice compartment and a smoke outlet directed close to the ground to help create heavy smoke that floats low above the stage surface.

SOME COMMON PROBLEMS WHEN USING A SMOKE MACHINE

After a period of use, smoke machines can develop common stage malfunctions, including:

No power supply

There is power, but the combustion chamber is not heating up.

No smoke is being emitted even though the combustion chamber is hot.

Press the control button to stop the machine from emitting smoke.

The amount of smoke emitted is small, uneven, or even includes water droplets.

The pump makes a very loud noise when in use.

The heating time is much longer than usual.

The smoke machine cannot be controlled via the lighting control console (for DMX smoke machines).

HOW TO FIX STAGE SMOKE MACHINE PROBLEMS

For smoke machine malfunctions, we need to identify the root cause of each small detail to easily pinpoint the problem. This will allow us to find a solution more quickly.

1. For power supply issues (no power).

This is indicated by the switch not illuminating and the machine not heating up. Check the power cord and then the fuse. The fuse is located inside the power switch; simply remove it to find it. If the fuse is blown, check for any internal short circuits before replacing it. For standard smoke machines without a control board, the inspection is simple. For DMX smoke machines, the control board needs to be checked.

2. The combustion chamber is not hot.

Check the 220V power supply to the combustion chamber. Measure this voltage at the two electrical terminals of the combustion chamber. If there is still voltage, the combustion chamber is burned out. We need to replace the combustion chamber.

3. The combustion chamber is hot, but no smoke is coming out.

Check if the smoke machine pump is still working (provide a separate 220V power supply for the pump, and remove the smoke oil suction hose). If the pump is still working, check the temperature sensor. Or, for DMX smoke machines, also check the control board.

4. Pressing the control button but no smoke comes out.

The remote control or manual control is broken, or the 3-pin connector has a broken wire inside (this applies when the pump and combustion chamber with the relay have been checked and are working correctly).

5. The amount of smoke emitted is small, and water is also sprayed.

A clogged combustion chamber will result in low smoke output, insufficient combustion heat leading to inadequate fuel combustion and water spraying. If the combustion chamber is not hot enough but the pump is still running, check the relay to see if it is blown.

6. The pump is making a loud noise.

Pump blockage, combustion chamber blockage, pump mounting bracket has come loose.

7. Long combustion chamber warm-up time.

The combustion chamber is damaged and needs replacing.

8. Unable to control the smoke machine via the DMX control panel.

Faulty DMX signal line, faulty control board, or faulty DMX address setting unit on the back of the smoke machine.

Most of these problems are relatively easy to identify, so you can replace the internal parts to ensure the smoke machine operates smoothly throughout the event.

SOME NOTES WHEN USING A SMOKE MACHINE

Smoke-generating fluid is odorless, but if left for a long time, it will accumulate chemical residues which, under high temperatures, will burn and produce aldehydes with a pungent smell. Therefore, we should:

Clean the smoke machine regularly.

Do not leave the device running for too long before spraying smoke; 5 to 10 minutes is sufficient. When not in continuous use, turn off the smoke machine.

After using about two bottles of smoke fluid, we should flush the machine with about 1/2 liter of clean water to flush out any remaining chemical residue from the copper pipes .

Occasionally, we need to clear the exhaust vents of the machine to prevent blockages that could damage the pump.

We should not mix smoke-generating solutions with other flavorings because when heated, these flavorings become harmful to health.

If the smoke machine isn't producing smoke but instead emitting water, check the thermostat system. It's possible that for some reason, it's not generating enough heat for the chemicals to boil completely, leaving some water behind. Sometimes, if the thermostat fails to shut off the heat, a stream of molten aluminum will spray out instead of smoke, as the machine overheats and melts the aluminum.

Check when the smoke fluid will run out. Letting it run out will burn out the pump.

Above are some tips on common problems, how to handle malfunctions in smoke machines, and some things to keep in mind when using them . Hopefully, this article will help you find the best solutions for your smoke machine to maintain its durability and save fuel.

HSV Media is a reputable provider of smoke effects sales and rentals in Ho Chi Minh City. In addition, HSV Media is a leading provider of event equipment sales and rentals in Ho Chi Minh City and surrounding areas, including: LED screens , sound and lighting equipment , tents , tables and chairs, etc. Specifically , HSV MediaFurthermore, HSV Media owns the Viettruss factory, spanning 5000m2, specializing in the production of event equipment. This allows customers to save and optimize transportation/personnel costs when using HSV Media's comprehensive service package.

HSV Media promises to provide high-quality products at the best prices to our valued customers, always accompanying you in events of all sizes. Please contact us using the information below for personalized advice!

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