Why Choose a Low Fog Machine Over Dry Ice?

Posted by Tom Brown on 27/08/2026

Low-lying fog has become a popular way to add atmosphere and visual impact to events, from wedding first dances and parties to theatre productions and live performances. Traditionally, creating this effect has often involved dry ice. However, low fog machines offer an alternative that can provide a similar look without the need to source, transport and handle solid CO₂.

So, what is the difference between dry ice effects and low fog machines, and why might a low fog machine be a better option for your event?

What Is Dry Ice Fog?

Dry ice is solid CO₂. When placed in hot water, it rapidly changes from a solid into a gas, producing a thick white fog.

This creates the familiar ‘dancing on the clouds’ effect often used for wedding first dances, as well as atmospheric effects for theatre, live productions and more.

The main limitation is that dry ice is a consumable. It needs to be purchased or delivered close to the event, stored appropriately and handled carefully. It also has a limited usable lifespan because it continually sublimates, meaning it changes directly from a solid into a gas even when it is not being used.

For events where timing, logistics and reliability are important, these additional considerations can make dry ice less convenient.

No Need for Dry Ice

This is where low fog machines offer a significant advantage.

Low fog machines use alternatives to solid CO₂. For example, at AV Xpert, we have the BeamZ LF3000 available to hire, which uses a combination of water and standard smoke fluid to produce a continuous layer of low-lying fog.

Low fog machines can create results that are very similar to a traditional dry ice effect, but without the need for a supply of dry ice.

For event organisers, this makes the setup considerably simpler. There is no requirement to arrange a separate dry ice delivery, manage a consumable that gradually disappears or ensure there is enough available throughout the event.

There are also practical benefits during setup and operation. Dry ice requires careful handling because it is extremely cold and can cause cold burns if handled incorrectly. Low fog machines remove the need to handle solid CO₂ as part of the setup.

Operational Requirements

Another advantage of low fog machines is that they can be much simpler to operate than traditional dry ice effects. Because there is no dry ice to handle, there is less specialist equipment involved in setting up and running the effect. At AV Xpert, depending on the event requirements, our low fog machines can be supplied as a dry hire, allowing the user to operate it themselves. If you would prefer, we can of course supply the machine with an experienced operator to run it for you.

Dry ice, on the other hand, involves handling solid CO₂ and requires a trained operator to manage the equipment and dry ice safely throughout the event.

Greater Control

Low fog machines also offer greater control over the effect. Output levels can often be adjusted to create anything from a subtle layer of fog across a dance floor to a much denser effect for a theatrical production.

The BeamZ LF3000 Low Fog Machine, available to hire from AV Xpert, is a good example of this. This machine can be controlled manually or via the supplied remote control. For more complex productions, DMX control allows the low fog machine to be integrated into a wider setup, enabling synchronisation with other stage equipment for coordinated effects. It features adjustable output and fan speed, giving users control over the overall effect.

Low Fog Machine Hire from AV Xpert

If you are considering a low-lying fog effect for your next event, a low fog machine can provide the visual impact you are looking for.

At AV Xpert, we offer low fog machines available for hire, including the BeamZ LF3000. Contact us today to find out more.