Mold Fogging: How to Use Invatech 868, 870, and 915 as Mold Foggers

Mold Fogging: Complete Guide to Invatech ULV Foggers for Professional Mold Remediation

Mold Fogging & Remediation Overview: Mold fogging is a supplemental treatment that uses ULV (ultra-low volume) technology to disperse fine antimicrobial droplets throughout enclosed spaces, targeting airborne mold spores and hard-to-reach surfaces. Invatech offers five professional solutions: backpack foggers (868, 870, 915) for portable large-scale projects, and cordless electric foggers (35XLT, 5500) for occupied buildings and sensitive environments. However, mold fogging works best as part of a complete remediation strategy that includes moisture correction, physical removal of contaminated materials, and ongoing ventilation management. Shop All Invatech Foggers
Critical Safety & Compliance Notice: Fogging products off-label (using a disinfectant for fogging when the label does not permit it) violates EPA pesticide regulations and can damage property or harm occupants. Mold fogging must supplement—never replace—moisture control, drainage repair, and physical removal of heavily contaminated porous materials. This guide covers supplemental mold fogging only.

Table of Contents: Professional Mold Fogging Guide

Key Takeaways: Mold Fogging with Invatech ULV Foggers

🎯 Fogging Is Supplemental

Mold fogging reduces airborne spores and treats complex surfaces but never replaces moisture control or removal of moldy materials.

🧪 Label-Approved Products Only

Only fog EPA-registered antimicrobials explicitly labeled for ULV fogging against mold indoors. Off-label use violates federal law.

💨 Professional ULV Technology

All Invatech foggers produce fine droplets that penetrate cavities and reach hard-to-access mold surfaces.

🏠 Choose By Project Type

Backpack models for large areas; electric models for occupied buildings, schools, and healthcare facilities.

⏱️ Honor Contact Time Requirements

Most mold-fogging products require 10–60 minutes of wet contact time with no occupants present to be effective.

⚠️ Vacate and Ventilate

All people and pets must leave during fogging. After contact time, ventilate thoroughly before re-entry per product label.

What Is Mold Fogging?

Mold fogging is the process of dispersing a fine antimicrobial mist throughout a building space to contact mold spores in the air and on exposed surfaces. Unlike manual scrubbing or wiping, which can only reach visible and easily accessible areas, ULV fogging sends microscopic droplets into wall cavities, crawlspaces, attic areas, joist bays, and other difficult-to-access locations where mold growth and dormant spores may persist after initial cleanup.

Invatech ULV foggers use high-velocity fans (backpack models) or precision electric atomizers (electric models) to atomize antimicrobial concentrate into droplets typically 5–50 microns in diameter. These droplets remain suspended in air long enough to settle throughout the treated space, making contact with mold cells and airborne spores. Once the fog settles, the antimicrobial's contact time begins—typically 15–60 minutes depending on the specific product—during which the chemical works to kill mold, suppress growth, and reduce spore populations.

Effective mold fogging requires a three-part approach: (1) correct all moisture sources causing mold growth, (2) physically remove visibly contaminated materials, and (3) fog remaining surfaces and cavities with label-approved antimicrobials. Skipping any of these steps reduces effectiveness and increases the risk of rapid mold recurrence.

Understanding Mold Remediation Strategy

Mold remediation is the comprehensive process of identifying mold growth, eliminating its source, removing contaminated materials, and reducing future risk. Many homeowners and contractors mistake mold fogging for complete remediation, leading to repeated problems and wasted money. The Federal EPA, state health departments, and industry standards all emphasize that fogging is one tool within a larger strategy—never a substitute for moisture control or material removal.

Why Moisture Control Is Foundation

Mold grows whenever conditions support it: moisture (>60% humidity or standing water), organic material (dust, skin cells, wood), and adequate temperature (50–90°F optimal). If moisture remains present, mold will return within weeks or months despite any fogging. According to the Florida Department of Health Mold Guidance, moisture correction—fixing leaks, improving drainage, reducing humidity—is the most critical first step. Without it, fogging provides only temporary spore suppression.

Physical Removal of Contaminated Materials

Mold-saturated drywall, insulation, and carpeting cannot be cleaned; they must be removed. Fogging cannot penetrate deep into wet insulation or moldy wood framing to kill mold deep within these materials. Professional mold remediation companies begin by removing heavily contaminated porous materials, then apply fogging as a supplemental step to remaining accessible areas. This approach is both more effective and more cost-efficient than relying on fogging alone.

When Mold Fogging Makes Sense

Mold fogging is most appropriate and effective in these scenarios: small, limited contamination (under 10 sq ft) when visible mold is confined to small areas and can be fully removed; hard-to-reach cavities after bulk material removal to reach into stud bays, joist spaces, and crawlspaces; odor control when certain antimicrobials address musty odors that persist after physical cleanup; between demolition and reconstruction to reduce microbial load on new framing; and commercial/multi-unit buildings where property managers use fogging to suppress mold in common areas while underlying moisture problems are being resolved.

Backpack Foggers: Invatech 868, 870, and 915

Invatech backpack foggers are engineered ULV platforms originally developed for mosquito control but equally effective for mold fogging when paired with appropriate antimicrobials. All three models produce the fine droplet sizes and consistent output required for professional mold work, offering portability and power for large-scale remediation projects.

Invatech 868: Compact Mold Fogger for Small to Medium Spaces

Best for: Single rooms, bathrooms, small basements, condos, crawlspaces, townhomes.

  • Tank: 4-liter capacity, 15–25 minutes runtime per fill
  • Coverage: Effective for treating individual rooms (~500 sq ft per tank)
  • Weight: Lightweight and ergonomic, ideal for attic and crawlspace work
  • Output: Professional ULV atomization in 5–15 micron range
  • Price: $369 (one-time investment, no recurring service costs)

The 868 is the entry-point fogger for homeowners addressing mold in small properties or contractors building their remediation toolkit. Its modest tank means frequent refilling on larger jobs, but for targeted single-room treatment, it is highly effective and easy to control.

Invatech 870: Mid-Range Mold Fogger for Typical Residential Properties

Best for: Whole-home mold projects, multi-room treatments, medium basements, typical water damage scenarios.

  • Tank: 4–5 liters, 20–35 minutes runtime per fill
  • Coverage: Effectively treats multiple rooms or a full basement without frequent refilling
  • Power: Upgraded engine compared to 868, delivering consistent atomization and air velocity
  • Ergonomics: Balanced weight and power for extended use sessions without operator fatigue
  • Price: $389 (most popular model for restoration contractors)

The 870 is the "Goldilocks" choice for most residential mold fogging. It offers the runtime efficiency of larger models while maintaining the control and light feel that allows precise nozzle direction and good handling in tight spaces.

Invatech 915: Professional Heavy-Duty Mold Fogger for Large Projects

Best for: Large homes, multi-unit buildings, commercial water damage recovery, industrial mold remediation.

  • Tank: 16 liters, 60–90+ minutes runtime per fill on moderate throttle
  • Coverage: Can treat entire residential floors or large commercial spaces without intermediate refilling
  • Engine: Professional-grade 63.3cc two-stroke, 4,200+ CFM air output
  • Durability: Built for daily rental and commercial use, preferred by multi-unit operators
  • Price: $399 (fastest ROI on large mold remediation contracts)

The 915 is the professional standard for serious mold remediation contractors. Its extended runtime and powerful output make it ideal for treating large properties, commercial buildings, and facility-wide mold projects where labor time is critical.

Electric Foggers: Invatech 35XLT and 5500

Invatech electric foggers represent the next generation of mold remediation technology, eliminating fuel concerns, exhaust emissions, and noise while delivering precision micron control ideal for occupied buildings and sensitive environments. Two professional-grade models serve different project scales and operational needs.

⚡ Invatech 35XLT: Compact Electric ULV Fogger

For indoor mold remediation in occupied buildings, healthcare facilities, schools, and commercial spaces, the Invatech 35XLT Electric ULV Fogger eliminates noise, exhaust fumes, and fuel concerns while delivering professional-grade disinfection against mold, bacteria, and viruses.

Key Advantages:
  • No Fumes or Exhaust: Electric operation means zero fuel emissions—safe for indoor use around sensitive populations
  • Whisper-Quiet Operation: Ideal for schools, hospitals, offices, and residential spaces where noise disruption is a concern
  • Precise Droplet Control: Adjustable micron setting (10–150 microns) and flow rate valve for customized antimicrobial delivery
  • Lightweight & Portable: Only 5 pounds dry weight with comfortable shoulder strap and long industrial hose
  • 5-Liter Tank Capacity: Sufficient for treating multiple rooms or entire residential units without frequent refilling
  • Safety Features: 13-inch extension cord with GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) prevents electrical hazards
  • 3-Year Warranty: Comprehensive coverage including motor and professional support
35XLT Technical Specifications:
Tank Capacity 1.3 gallons (5 liters)
Droplet Range 10–150 microns (adjustable)
Power Supply 110V - 60Hz, 1600 Watts
Dry Weight 5 lbs
Warranty 3 years (including motor)

Best For: Single to multi-room residential treatment, healthcare facilities, schools, offices, and occupied buildings requiring professional-grade disinfection without evacuation delays.

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🔧 Invatech 5500: Professional Electric ULV Fogger for Large-Scale Operations

The Invatech 5500 is the professional-grade electric fogger for large rooms, open spaces, and facility-wide mold remediation. With significantly larger tank capacity and extended operational range, the 5500 delivers precision mold fogging for commercial applications, multi-unit buildings, and industrial contamination scenarios.

Key Advantages:
  • Professional Tank Capacity: 4-gallon tank (15.1 liters) handles extended fogging sessions without refilling
  • Extended Range: 5–15 foot spray distance covers large open spaces and high ceilings
  • Ultra-Fine Droplets: 0–50 micron range provides exceptional penetration and surface coverage
  • Padded Back Support: Comfortable carrying system designed for hours-long professional use
  • Flow Rate & Micron Control: Long industrial hose with regulator valve for precision adjustment
  • Large Fill Mouth: Easy tank refilling reduces prep time between treatments
  • No Emissions or Noise: Electric operation ideal for continuous facility-wide fogging
5500 Technical Specifications:
Tank Capacity 4 gallons (15.1 liters)
Droplet Range 0–50 microns (adjustable via regulator)
Spray Range 5–15 feet
Dry Weight 12 pounds
Power Supply 110 volts, 60 Hz electric

Best For: Large commercial spaces, facility-wide mold remediation, multi-story buildings, industrial contamination, property management companies, and remediation contractors handling high-volume projects. The 5500's extended tank capacity and spray range make it ideal for treating large open spaces without intermediate refilling.

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Antimicrobial Solutions for Mold Fogging

Critical Rule: Only fog EPA-registered products explicitly labeled for ULV or cold fogging against mold indoors. Using any other product—even if it "works" on mold—violates EPA pesticide regulations and can create indoor air quality hazards.

Categories of Approved Mold Fogging Antimicrobials

Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (Quats): Professional-grade quats like ADBAS and other quaternary salts carry ULV fogging label language for mold and mildew control. Typical dilution: 1–2 oz per gallon. Contact time: 15–30 minutes. These products are non-corrosive, generally safe for most building materials (test first), and widely used in restoration work.

Botanical and Plant-Based Disinfectants: Thymol-based and citric acid formulations labeled for ULV mold fogging appeal to projects with chemical sensitivity concerns or in healthcare/school settings. Effectiveness equals synthetics when used at label dilution and contact time. Often slightly higher contact times required.

Chlorine Dioxide Solutions: Stabilized ClO₂ formulations engineered for cold fogging address severe mold, biofilm, and odor. Requires precise label compliance, shorter contact times (5–15 minutes), and careful ventilation. More reactive than quats; excellent for heavily contaminated scenarios.

What NOT to Fog

  • Household Bleach: Not labeled for fogging; damages furnishings, creates hazardous vapors
  • Hydrogen Peroxide: Unless specifically labeled for ULV fogging (rare); damages fabrics and materials
  • Any Product Not Labeled "ULV Fogging": Off-label use is illegal and ineffective

Step-By-Step Mold Fogging Procedure with Invatech Equipment

Pre-Fogging Phase (Days 1–3)

  • Fix Moisture Sources: Repair leaks, improve drainage, ensure sump pumps work, reduce humidity to <60%
  • Remove Contaminated Materials: Discard moldy drywall, insulation, carpet
  • Clean & HEPA Vacuum: Damp-wipe hard surfaces, use HEPA vacuum on dust and settled spores
  • Dry Completely: Run fans, dehumidifiers, and open windows; ensure moisture content <15% before fogging

Equipment Setup (Day of Fogging)

  • Inspect Fogger: Check for leaks, proper nozzle function; test startup
  • Mix Antimicrobial: Prepare fresh solution at label dilution using clean water; never pre-mix and store
  • Don PPE: Nitrile gloves (double-gloved), safety glasses, NIOSH-approved respirator, protective clothing, closed-toe shoes

Fogging Application (Execution)

  • Ensure Vacancy: All occupants and pets must be out; post "Do Not Enter" signs
  • Systematic Coverage: Start at farthest point, work toward exit using slow, deliberate movements
  • Nozzle Direction: Angle slightly upward to allow droplets to settle throughout space
  • Application Rate: Follow label-specified milliliters per 1,000 cubic feet
  • Seal Treatment Area: Close door upon exit; set timer for label contact time (typically 15–60 minutes)

Post-Fogging & Ventilation (Hours After)

  • Maintain Sealed Conditions: Keep area closed during full contact time
  • Ventilate After Contact Time: Open all doors/windows, run exhaust fans, establish cross-ventilation
  • Allow 30–60 Minutes: Ensure adequate air exchange before occupants re-enter
  • Document Application: Record product name, dilution, tank fill amount, start/end times, treated areas

Safety & Best Practices for Mold Fogging

Regulatory Compliance

Fogging a product off-label violates EPA pesticide regulations and can result in fines, license loss, and civil liability. Always verify label language before purchase. The EPA Mold Cleanup Guide and state health departments (like Texas TDLR Mold Licensing) maintain strict regulations on what products and methods are permissible.

Occupant Health & Re-Entry Protocols

All occupants, particularly those with asthma, chemical sensitivities, or respiratory conditions, must remain out during fogging and through the full re-entry time on the label. Inadequate ventilation or premature re-entry can trigger respiratory irritation, asthma attacks, or other health impacts. When in doubt, consult the product SDS and err on the side of longer ventilation times.

Mold Fogging Equipment Comparison: All 5 Invatech Models

Equipment Type Tank Size Coverage Best For Price
868 Backpack 4L ~500 sq ft/fill Small rooms, DIY $369
870 Backpack 4–5L ~800–1000 sq ft/fill Typical homes $389
915 Backpack 16L ~2000+ sq ft/fill Large properties, commercial $399
35XLT Electric 5L Multi-room residential Occupied buildings, schools $289
5500 Electric 15.1L Large commercial spaces Facility-wide, multi-unit $199

Mold Fogging FAQ

Can Invatech foggers replace professional mold remediation?

For small, accessible mold problems (under ~10 sq ft) that have been physically cleaned, Invatech foggers with label-approved antimicrobials can effectively suppress residual spores. However, larger jobs, HVAC contamination, severe water damage, or structural issues require certified professionals. Fogging is a tool, not a complete remediation service.

Which Invatech model should I choose?

Choose 868 for small rooms/condos; 870 for typical residential homes (most popular); 915 for large properties/commercial buildings; 35XLT for occupied buildings/schools with noise concerns; 5500 for facility-wide commercial operations. Electric models (35XLT, 5500) eliminate fuel emissions and noise while offering precision micron control ideal for sensitive environments.

Is mold fogging safe for occupied homes?

Not during fogging itself. All occupants, pets, and unprotected personnel must vacate during application and through the full re-entry time listed on the antimicrobial label (typically 15–60 minutes). After adequate ventilation, the treated space is safe for re-entry. Electric foggers (35XLT, 5500) enable faster re-entry since they produce zero emissions.

What's the difference between backpack and electric foggers?

Backpack foggers (868, 870, 915) are portable, fuel-powered, ideal for large outdoor or commercial areas, and best for contractors needing extended runtime. Electric foggers (35XLT, 5500) emit zero fumes, operate quietly, offer precision micron control, and are perfect for occupied buildings, schools, healthcare facilities, and sensitive environments. The 5500's 4-gallon tank handles facility-wide applications without refilling.

How long does mold fogging suppress mold growth?

Most antimicrobials suppress mold for a few weeks to months, depending on the product and environmental conditions. However, if moisture problems persist, mold will return. Long-term success requires fixing the moisture source, maintaining humidity <55%, ensuring proper ventilation, and combining fogging with physical material removal.

What if mold returns after fogging?

Mold recurrence after fogging almost always indicates an unresolved moisture problem. Re-inspect for leaks, condensation, high humidity, or poor drainage. Fix these issues first, then re-fog if needed. Simply re-fogging without correcting moisture is not cost-effective and will lead to repeated problems.

Invatech Fogger Collections and Guides

Authoritative External Resources on Mold Remediation

Complete Summary: Mold Fogging and Remediation with Invatech ULV Foggers

Mold Fogging & Remediation: Final Action Plan

Mold fogging with Invatech ULV foggers—whether backpack models (868, 870, 915) or electric models (35XLT, 5500)—provides professional coverage for airborne spores and hard-to-reach surfaces when paired with EPA-registered antimicrobials. However, effective mold remediation requires a comprehensive strategy: fix moisture first, remove contaminated materials second, then use fogging as a supplemental finishing step. This three-part approach—moisture control, material removal, fogging—is endorsed by the EPA, state health departments, and industry standards.

Equipment Selection Guide

  • Invatech 868: Small rooms, condos, DIY projects ($369)
  • Invatech 870: Typical residential homes, multi-room treatments ($389 - most popular)
  • Invatech 915: Large properties, commercial buildings, facility-wide remediation ($399)
  • Invatech 35XLT: Occupied buildings, schools, healthcare facilities, quiet/zero-emissions requirement
  • Invatech 5500: Large commercial spaces, multi-unit buildings, facility-wide operations with extended tank capacity

Eight-Step Implementation Plan

  • Step 1 – Assess & Plan: Determine if your mold problem is DIY-appropriate (<10 sq ft) or requires professional help
  • Step 2 – Fix Moisture: Locate and repair water intrusions, improve ventilation, reduce humidity to <55%
  • Step 3 – Remove Contaminated Materials: Discard moldy drywall, insulation, carpet
  • Step 4 – Clean & Dry: HEPA vacuum and damp-wipe; ensure moisture content <15% before fogging
  • Step 5 – Select Equipment: Choose by area size and constraints: 868 (small), 870 (typical), 915 (large), 35XLT (occupied), 5500 (commercial)
  • Step 6 – Choose Antimicrobial: Select EPA-registered product labeled for ULV fogging against mold
  • Step 7 – Execute Fogging: Vacate occupants, fog with even coverage, honor contact time
  • Step 8 – Monitor & Maintain: Track humidity <55%, ensure drainage and HVAC maintenance

Mold fogging with Invatech ULV foggers is a valuable supplemental tool in professional mold remediation when integrated into a complete moisture-controlled, material-removal-focused remediation strategy. Follow the three-step approach: fix moisture, remove contaminated materials, then fog—and enjoy lasting mold prevention.

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