Everything You Need to Know About Misting Systems

Imagine a nice, breezy, cool summer day. The sun is bright, the grass is a luscious green, and the temperature is just right to spend some quality time outside.

While this is an ideal summer afternoon, it certainly does not describe a typical one. Most of the time, you're going to have days that are 90 degrees and higher, making your central air conditioning indispensable. But what about the kids? It's tough to send them outside when the weather is so incredibly hot. Still, it would be nice to get them out of your hair.

Its 95 degrees outside, and there isn't even a sliver of shade in sight. Even in the dugout, it feels like it's over 90 degrees. Though they won't be as active as they would be in a soccer match, the kids are going to sweat a ton as they stand on the field during today's baseball game. You have four coolers full of water, but water isn't going to cool them down when they come into the dugout between innings -- it will just keep them from dehydrating. Is there anything else you can do to keep these kids cool?

A high pressure mist system kit can cool outdoor temperatures up to 30 degrees, meaning a long and comfortable day outside for the kids -- and yourself. They can decrease dust levels that come along with the summer months, as well as odors that can arise. That will allow you and the kids a lot more quality time in the sun. Summer just became a lot more bearable.

The system is simple and is easy to have installed. It contains nylon or stainless steel pipes, spray nozzles, and a pump. The pump forces water drawn from your home through the tubes, and is expelled through the misting nozzles. It's really as simple as that. You'll be enjoying all of the benefits of mist system in no time.

Though water is being sprayed, it feels like a cool breeze passing across your skin. There is no damp or wet feeling with high pressure mist systems. That's because the high pressure pump allows water to leave the nozzles in drops that are smaller in diameter than a human hair.

If you live in one of the hot southern states, or in any other area that is plagued by extreme heat and humidity, you ought to consider looking into the latest advancement in cooling technology; outdoor misting systems. Outdoor cooling systems have the ability to cool the temperature in your surrounding area by up to thirty degrees. Our patented outdoor cooling systems reduce the temperature through a process known as flash evaporation. Pressurized water is forced through a specialized nozzle that converts the water into a fine mist. The mist is then dispersed and circulated by a fan, thus bringing the temperature of the air to a reasonably bearable level.

When the body is exposed to extreme temperatures, it perspires in order to keep its internal temperature under control. Using a normal fan to circulate the air, the sweat then evaporates, resulting in a cooling of the surface (your skin). The circulating air also helps remove heat radiated by the body. Adding mist to that amplifies the cooling process and keeps the temperature at a lower level.

A single misting system can cool surrounding temperatures by up to 25 degrees. So, while the opposing team cool themselves by waving paper fans and dumping buckets of water over their heads, your team can enjoy a crisp 80-degree dugout. Not only will this keep them less fatigued and better able to play the game, but it will keep them safer: the risk of dehydration and heat stroke is greatly reduced. Bringing one of these along to the game will make you the coolest parent on the team -- literally.

MISTING SYSTEMS: CHOOSING THE RIGHT MISTING SYSTEM

We have a number of outdoor mist systems to fit most any budget. We can also work with you to devise a customized evaporative cooling system that will meet your specific needs. Regardless of the one you choose, all misting systems work on the same basic principles. The components of a basic outdoor misting system include a water reservoir, a water pump, a series of spray nozzles, and a fan to disperse the fine water mist. While most outdoor misting systems are comprised of the same basic components, not all misting systems function in the same manner. At Cool-Off.com, we use only the best parts and components in all of our products.

Another benefit of a misting system is how little energy it uses. It uses roughly 80% less energy than an air conditioner -- not that you would lug an air conditioner into the dugout. In fact, even if you were to bring that air conditioner along, it wouldn't have nearly the open-air cooling power of a misting system. So, for less energy (which means less money), you get a more powerful outdoor cooling system. And, since it doesn't use freon, it is more environmentally safe, too!

Misting systems work best in a low humidity environment. However, because humidity falls relatively when temperatures exceed 90 degrees, they are still highly effective even in more humid conditions.

Our outdoor cooling systems can be used in a wide variety of applications and settings. If you are the type of person who likes to spend summer afternoons on your back patio but you can't bear the heat and humidity, an evaporative cooling system will provide you with the relief that you need. Perhaps you are a farmer with a staff of farm workers and animals that are required to work outside even on those terribly hot days? In cases such as this, we would recommend that you consider purchasing a portable outdoor misting system. We have portable outdoor misting systems that are specifically designed to meet the needs farm workers.

We have also designed and installed a number of outdoor misting systems for various sports and entertainment events. One of our recent installations was at a local college. In this case, the faculty felt it was necessary to protect their football team from the heat by purchasing one of our sideline misting fan systems. We installed a couple of our systems on the sidelines of their football field and, needless to say, the players were all very relieved! In fact, it has become one of the most popular sports field in the region. Coincidence? We think not.

High pressure mist systems have uses beyond cooling, too. They are ideal for adding humidity to greenhouses or other growing environments. Fires and the resulting smoke can be controlled by them, much like a sprinkler system, and they provide excellent air filtration. They can even eye-catching effects around pools, garden, and other outdoor areas.

Low and medium pressure mist systems are more cost-effective alternatives to their high pressure counterparts. Though they leave a slightly damper feeling, they do reduce temperatures by up to 10 degrees, which is still a welcome break in the dog days of summer. Either way you choose to go, a mist system can lead to your best summer yet!

HOW TO INSTALL A HOME MISTING SYSTEM

To escape the oppressive heat during the summer days, an outdoor misting system, based on evaporation of water, can bring the temperature down and provide cool comfort to open spaces. The misting system converts hot air into cold air and brings relief from a scorching summer. To install a low-pressure outdoor misting system, you may, follow these simple steps:

1. Buy a PVC pipe and cut it into lengths of 24 inches.It is advisable to use a PVC pipe cutter to cut the pipe, as it will be easier and will not produce debris in the pipe. Coat the pipe and also the nozzle with PVC primer. Remember to coat about ½-inch on exterior and interior of both ends of the nozzle with the primer.

2. Glue the nozzles onto the pipe using PVC glue to coat the end of the PVC pipe. Insert the low pressure misting nozzle over the pipe and gently turn to lock into place. Continue priming and gluing the other nozzles and pipes for the straight run of the misting system. Please know the nozzles must align straight with each other as they are glued to the pipe. This is necessary as they cannot be adjusted once the glue has dried. Remove all the spray nozzle heads to allow the system to be flushed.

3. Fix the pipe clips to the pipe straight run and hold the straight run of PVC pipe extending up to the roof. Hammer the pipe clips somewhat loosely onto the roof of the patio. Loosely attach the other straight runs to the patio roof using the clips.

4. The nozzle holes have to be suitably adjusted so that they do not point directly down but tilt out slightly. Glue the runs together using primed elbow fittings while exercising care to see the misting nozzles stay at the correct angle. Now tighten the clips and provide additional clips between two nozzles to increase support.

5. It is necessary to add a drain valve to the system to enable draining of the system whenever required. Draining may be particularly needed before winter to prevent pipes from freezing and cracking. Take a primed elbow fitting and glue to a short piece of pipe, roughly six to eight inches. Attach a drain to the bottom of the pipe. The drain should be capable of being unscrewed to release the water. Glue the elbow to the low end of the system.

6. Run PVC right from the ceiling to the faucet, using elbow fittings wherever necessary. You will have to screw in an adapter to the faucet using an elbow fitting. Allow one hour for the glue to dry and firmly set over the entire system.

7. Turn the water on and allow flushing for several minutes as trial. Turn the water off and attach the spray nozzle heads to the nozzles and then close the drain. The outdoor misting system is now ready for operation.

Remember to use a PVC cutter and not a hacksaw as it is necessary to prevent debris from accumulating in the PVC blocking the spray nozzle heads. It is advisable to clean nozzle heads periodically with a solution of vinegar and water to remove all hard water deposits. To extend the life of the nozzle heads, remove them and keep them aside at the end of the summer season.

HOW TO ESTIMATE THE WATER USE OF A MISTING SYSTEM?

How much water does outdoor misting system require? This is highly consequential to be aware of! Water usage of a misting system simply depends on the type of system used, but it is said that between 600ml and 800ml of water is used approximately per minute. In order to estimate water use of a misting system, there are three things you need to know:

The type of nozzle
Number of nozzles
Frequency of use
Water pressure of the system

MISTING NOZZLE

In order to create a cooling mist, the size of the mist nozzle opening which is coined as the orifice is balanced by the system's water pressure and flow rate (amount of water). In general, nozzles have a tendency to squirt less water at lower pressures compared to high pressures. As a matter of fact, at lower water pressures mist nozzles will not make the grade to toil. When the pressure of the water at the nozzle increases, there will be an augmentation in the flow rate through the nozzle. So, the higher the water pressure, the slighter the nozzle opening is needed.

Larger misting should be used with low and medium pressure systems and smaller nozzles should be used with high pressure misting systems. Sending fine mist will turn out to be a problem if you select a nozzle of smaller size; this is because the pump won't be able to send a sufficient amount of water through the nozzle and vice versa. It is not a matter of "more is better", but it is all about a sense of balance.

.012" / .3 mm -used for most of the systems, it works at its best for medium pressure misting systems. It provides minimal moisture, and complete evaporation, suggested for both open and enclosed areas.
.008" / .2 mm -perfect for systems using less water capacity with small droplet size, minimal moisture, and complete evaporation. Works its best for High pressure misting systems.
.006" / .15 mm –It provides similar results to the .008" nozzle.

NUMBER OF NOZZLES

The amount of water used by your misting system also depends on the number of nozzles. Number of nozzles required is determined by several factors such as the water pressure, flow rate at the spigot, size of the pipes that are delivering the water to misting nozzles.

WATER PRESSURE OF THE SYSTEM

Water droplet size that makes up the mist is the determining factor of the cooling effect. Evaporation of each of the little droplet is what cools the air around, compared to smaller droplets; bigger ones take just about one thousandth of a second longer. Chances are there for you to get wet, if they land on you before they are evaporated completely, on the other hand, if you end up being in a fairly dry air, this can feel amazing, as the water evaporates off of your skin. Nevertheless, in case of extreme humid weather it can turn out to be uncomfortable. The smaller droplets evaporating mid-air creates a stronger cooling effect which is coined as flash evaporation.

If the diameter of mist dewdrops is condensed by one-half, the amount of droplets produced with a given volume is amplified by octa counts.
Increasing twofold the droplet diameter will cut down the number produced by octa counts.

Listed below are the nozzle sizes' using 1000 psi / 70 bars and it denotes sampling of water droplet sizes. Measured in microns, this will help out in estimating the water use of a misting system. 1 micron is .001mm; let's have a look at the nozzle size and the droplets range

.012" / .3 mm - 1.6 microns to 39.1 microns
.008" / .2 mm - 1.4 microns to 37.9 microns
.006" / .15 mm - 1.2 microns to 36.4 microns

When you are aware of the water pressure you want to use then you can pick out a mist nozzle. For instance, if you choose a nozzle that uses 13.5 GPH (gallons per hour) / 51.1 LPH (liters per hour) (ballpark figure), this multiplied by the number of nozzles say 5, then it would come up to 13.5 GPH / 51.1 LPH multiplied by 5 = 67.5 GPH / 255 LPH. Taking this a step further to estimate the water use, you will have to append the running hours of the system. For example, if its 5 hours, then 67.5 GPH / 255 LPH multiplied by 5= 337.5 gallons /1275 liters per 5 hours.

Note- Nozzle flow rates may fluctuate depending on your home's water pressure.

HOW TO IDENTIFY A MISTING FAN/SYSTEM THAT REQUIRES MAINTENANCE?

Owning a professional grade misting system means more convenience together with handful of responsibilities…

What good is a misting system you can't afford to use during summer time? As with any piece of merchandise, maintenance is crucial and this applies to misting fans and misting systems as well. Despite the fact that, it is not obligatory to do anything for a year or two at a time, minimal maintenance together with yearly or periodical cleaning is what makes the misting unit look brand new, in spite of years of usage. Similarly, knowing how to identify a misting fan/system that requires maintenance is also highly important.

UNEVEN OR INSUFFICIENT MIST

Causes: The probable cause of an insufficient mist may be because of a damaged nozzle, inadequate water supply or damages in the unit as a whole. Inadequate water together with the worn, clogged and damaged nozzle may prompt the misting unit to give out little or no mist at all. The nozzle reduces water from the tank into dewdrops. The droplets of water which will twirl as mist, by all accounts will get strewn by the fan in such case.
Solution: Sometimes, the solution to a problem is very simple; hence look out for the obvious things first. To ensure there is sufficient misting, make sure that the tank is filled with enough water or else fasten the water hose appropriately to guarantee sufficient misting. Sometimes, dust accumulation is also responsible for uneven mist, so clean up thoroughly. Cleaning of the nozzle is also important. In case of severe damage, then nozzle replacement is what helps. Mist pollution
Cause: Sometimes unclean water may be the main cause of filthy mist, however, dust accumulation on grills and fan blades are another reason why you suffer dirty mist. Hard water mineral deposits cause pesky and unsightly stains. Over a period, it can build up around the openings, thereby causing staining, clogs and odor. Resulting in clogs that reduce the water pressure and emitting out unclean mist.
Solution: Clean the nozzle thoroughly by removing the 'O' ring, also it is highly suggested that you clean the fan blades and grills on a periodical basis. Wet grills and blades catch more dust particles, so always ensure it is dry. Storage of the misting unit places a vital role; it is good that you use a fan cover and store it.

OTHER COMMON FAULTS:

Inlet air leakage- restore clogged inlet fitting and ensure there is enough water supply.
Cloud droplets inside crankcase – change oil at regular intervals and replace seals if necessary.
Worn out nozzles - Replace it
Blocked water inlet - clean or replace fouled strainer
Air leak in plumbing - Reseal it, if the problem persists replace the damage part.
Squeaking slipping Belt - Tighten or replace if damaged
Dirt accumulation in the valve - Remove debris if any
Worn or damaged inlet discharge valves - Replace valves

Usage, maintenance and storage ways may also be responsible for the malfunction of a misting fan/system. Hence, read through the manual and follow the instructions carefully as you handle the unit.

As long as you take care of the misting unit in the way it's meant to be, it can last for years. If you find your misting system/misting fan to discharge the aforesaid signs, then it is good that you fix up the issue as soon as possible to avoid further complaints.

HOW TO MAINTAIN A MISTING SYSTEM THAT WORKS ALL SUMMER LONG?

GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR COOL INVESTMENT WITH PROPER MAINTENANCE AND CARE.

Misting systems are a cost-effective way of handling the heat stress during blazing summer. When they fail to fulfill the purpose called for, it becomes an additional hassle. For a prolonged usage, it is good that you give them periodical check-up together with annual maintenance, which can either be a DIY approach or experts at your service approach. If you prefer the former approach, here are a few tips that can save you thousands of dollars or even more.

NOZZLE MAINTENANCE:

YOUR MISTING SYSTEM'S PERFORMANCE IS BASED ON THE NOZZLES. HAVING A CLEAN AND CLEAR NOZZLE IS HIGHLY IMPORTANT, EVEN A PARTIAL BLOCK CAN RESULT IN POOR PERFORMANCE. FOLLOW THESE STEPS FOR CLEANING YOUR NOZZLES:

While the system is operating, with the help of a brush, clean the orifice of each nozzle.
For clogged nozzles, follow these steps:
With the system turned off, remove the clogged nozzles and soak it in a solution that will help you get rid of pesky, unsightly stains caused by hard water in your home.
Let it soak for 2-3minutes. Not more than that.
Reinstall the nozzles back and turn on the system. If they are still blocked, then it is highly suggested that you replace them.

INSPECT FOR LEAKAGES:

This is nothing but just a visual inspection of the key parts of the plumbing system for leakages. Steps:

With the water source pressurized on, check for leakages in the pump area. Seeing that there are protective covers used, consider removing the housing for a thorough inspection.
Inspect all combined areas on the misting system delivery area and look for signs of leaks and its necessary replace or restructure.

FILTER MAINTENANCE:

Like most misting pumps, maintenance is necessary and the Mist System filter is no different. An unclean filter will curb the water flow into the pump, causing cavitation ultimately resulting in vibration of the pump and excessive noise from the pump. If you find the system to function under these conditions, then it's time for you to clean or change the filter. On the other hand, if you find that your filter is requiring frequent replacement, then you can consider installing pre-filtration.

TO CHANGE THE FILTER CARTRIDGES:

Close the inlet water supply line to the unit.
Seal the inlet water supply line to the unit.
Unscrew the filter housing and with the help of a monkey wrench, turn the plastic filter housing CW motion and remove from the unit.
Wash out the filter cartridge thoroughly; concentrate on the base of the canister well. Replace with a clean filter cartridge.
Remove the O-ring from the filter housing's and apply a coat of lubricant and insert it back into the pump. As you place it back, ensure that it is seated properly in the pump and allow for a proper seal of the filter housing. Reinstall filter housing. Note: Any debris that gets ahead of the filter assembly is said to create a setback within the system so be very careful while replacing the filter and housing.

PUMP MAINTENANCE:

Pumps are an integral part of misting system. Lubricating them is what makes them come a long way. Every 500 hours of run time, the pump requires oil. We at cool-off sell our special 30w non-detergent pump oil that is ideal for maximum misting capacities.

WHILE CHANGING PUMP OIL:

Have a drip pan under the pump to collect liquid wastes.
With the help of a monkey wrench, do away with the drain plug positioned on the bottom of the pump.
Let the oil drain completely and when it's done, reinstall the drain plug.
Hose down any residues around the filler cap, which is on the top side of the pump and take out fill cap.
Fill up the crankcase to midpoint of oil sight-glass on the front of the pump.
Make sure that it is bursting at the seams, as this will cause damage to the pump.
Reinstall fill cap.

One of the most imperative pre-requisites on owning a premium grade misting system is to conduct performance maintenance in a proper way. Follow the aforesaid service and maintenance schedule and keep your misting system functioning all summer long while keeping them at the highest point of excellence by maintaining it well.

HOW TO TROUBLESHOOT A MISTING SYSTEM

To trace and correct faults in any mechanical system is no easy task, but as with outdoor misting system this is may not be the case and in some cases it may be. However, chances are there for the problem appears to be simple, so always look out for the obvious things first. The mechanism of a misting system is simple, comprised of tubing and pipes through which water is delivered by compressed air to form a mist, most malfunctions show up because of a blocked nozzle or tube, in some cases it might be because of the fault of the electrical system. Listed below are some of the common issues that you may be experiencing with your outdoor misting system and its troubleshooting techniques.

WHEN THE PUMP DOESN'T TURN ON, CHECK

If the on/off switch is turned on
If whether there is power at the on/off switch connections on the pump
The outlet for power and proper voltage together with if it is plugged into a standard voltage outlet; also check the hard wired unit.
If all wirings are properly connected and is the wiring in the pressure switch is properly connected.
If the pressure switch setting is whether unfastened, if so fasten it. There will be a reduction in the required pressure in closed contact and operation of the pump if the set's nut on the pressure switch is loosened.
If there is sufficient pressure in the line close to the connector; as with the low pressure safety switch, this might be a concern.

WHEN THE PUMP TURNS ON AND YOU EXPERIENCE TRIPS THE BREAKER

Check the amp draw, especially at the breaker and pump; however, make sure that the unit is turned on.
Check if the wires are melted and look out for signs of electrical arcs in the motor junction box
Check for the breaker size, it must be 1.5 times the full load Amp draw of the system. In case, if you find it to be faulty, without any ado replace it.
Make sure that the system is connected to an individual circuit. The unit without a dedicated circuit may draw more current than the circuit can knob which results in multiple problems like tripping breakers, blowing fuses, together with overheating wire insulation which leads to breakdown and possibility of electrical fires.
Is a power extender used for the pump to bring electric power? If yes, then breaker tripping may be because if an over amp condition, having said that, as with extension cords, you will also have to check for wire size and length, if it doesn't meet its requirement, then there are chances for melting of wire that may cause an over amp condition and trip the breaker.
Check for the whole electrical connections in the unit for shorts; seizing of a motor or pump will also cause tripping of breakers or tripping of a thermal overload in the motor.
If it's a potential difference unit, disconnect the power, turn off the water and check for seizing. You can check if the pump is seized by rotating the pulleys by hand, if it doesn't revolve then the pump or the water may be seized. In order to come to a conclusion on what is seized, whether the pump or the motor, do away with the pulley belt and see if they can be turned by hand, if it doesn't turn then they need a replacement.
Check for signs of crankcase failures, i.e., look out for oil in the pump, water in the oil and also check if there are metal shavings in the oil.
The motor should be replaced if it doesn't turn on freely or seized.

WHEN THE PUMP LEAKS WATER:

Inspect all hoses and fittings and figure out where the water is exactly coming from and replace the part causing this water seepage issue.
Do a thorough check with all the internal parts like the pump seals, the pistons and also check the pump crankcase if there is water in the oil.

WHEN THE MOTOR LEAKS OIL:

Determine where the oil is coming leaking from. Worn crank seals, crankcase cover seal or drain plug are the probable cause of oil leaks. In this case, replace the seals. In addition, check for the oil drain plug and make sure they are secured.
Depending upon the severity of the pump damage, sometimes you will have to replace the pump oil seals or the entire pump.
In some cases, you will have to replace or restructure the pump, mainly when you see if water has leaked into the covering enclosing a crankshaft forcing oil out all the way through the dipstick opening. This means that there is a low pressure water seal failure.

Following these simple rules will help save time and trouble. If you still experience problems with your misting system, then without any further delay, call the experts and get the issue fixed.