Outdoor Fogger Machine | Invatech 868, 870, 915 Professional Yard Foggers
Table of Contents: Outdoor Fogger Machines
- Why Outdoor Fogger Machines for Yard & Property Treatment
- Outdoor Fogging Benefits & Applications
- Outdoor Fogger Machines by Property Size
- Invatech 868, 870, 915: Complete Comparison
- Coverage & Runtime Comparison Chart
- Real-World Use Cases & Applications
- Professional Outdoor Application Techniques
- Weather Considerations for Outdoor Fogging
- Outdoor Machine Maintenance & Care
- Outdoor Fogger Machine FAQ
- Complete Buying Guide
Why Outdoor Fogger Machines for Yard & Property Treatment
Professional outdoor fogger machines are essential for effective yard and large property pest control. Unlike handheld aerosols, garden hose attachments, and pump sprayers, outdoor fogger machines deliver comprehensive coverage across large areas with minimal chemical usage and maximum operator efficiency.
Key Advantages of Outdoor Fogger Machines
- Comprehensive Coverage: ULV technology produces 5-10 micron droplets that penetrate vegetation, foliage undersides, mulch areas, and soil zones
- Extended Runtime: Tank capacities from 4L (868) to 16L (915) enable continuous fogging without frequent refilling
- Large Area Treatment: Cover quarter-acre to 2+ acres per tank fill efficiently
- Portable Design: Lightweight backpack-mounted equipment allows operators to move freely across yards and properties
- Professional Results: EPA-approved equipment delivers consistent disease vector control and pest elimination
- Cost Efficiency: Uses 1/10 the chemical of hand spraying while covering 10x more area
- Residual Protection: 10-14 day to 2-4 week protection depending on product selection
- No Licensing Required: Operate legally with EPA-registered pesticides (varies by state/application type)
Outdoor Fogging Benefits & Applications
Disease Vector Control (Mosquitoes, Gnats)
Outdoor fogger machines eliminate disease-carrying mosquitoes (West Nile Virus, Zika, dengue, chikungunya) and nuisance gnats (fungus gnats, biting gnats, fruit flies) from yards and neighborhoods. ULV fogging kills flying insects on contact while IGRs disrupt larval development in moist soil and vegetation. See our dedicated guide: Foggers for Gnats for comprehensive gnat lifecycle control strategies.
Large Yard Treatment
Residential yards hosting standing water, dense vegetation, and favorable breeding conditions require professional-grade outdoor foggers. A single Invatech 870 or 915 treatment eliminates mosquitoes and gnats from entire properties in one efficient pass. Learn more: Mosquito Sprayer for Yard Guide.
Multi-Property Commercial Coverage
Property managers, HOA boards, and municipal governments use outdoor fogger machines for scheduled neighborhood pest control. The Invatech 915's 16-liter tank enables treatment of multiple properties without intermediate refilling. See Commercial Mosquito Sprayer Business Model for revenue opportunities.
Mold Remediation & Facility Disinfection
Water damage restoration contractors use outdoor fogger machines for post-disaster mold fogging and facility disinfection. The same ULV technology that controls mosquitoes effectively disperses antimicrobial solutions across large spaces. Detailed protocols: Mold Fogging Professional Guide.
Preventive Seasonal Programs
Seasonal outdoor fogging programs (spring through fall) prevent mosquito population explosions before disease transmission peaks. Weekly or bi-weekly treatments maintain continuous protection without reactive emergency fogging.
Outdoor Fogger Machines by Property Size
Quarter-Acre Properties (Condos, Townhomes, Small Lots)
Recommended Machine: Invatech 868 ($369)
The 868 is perfect for quarter-acre properties where a single tank fill covers the entire yard. Lightweight design minimizes operator fatigue for frequent seasonal treatments. Ideal for condo complexes, townhome communities, and small residential properties.
Half-Acre to Full Acre Properties (Typical Suburban Yards)
Recommended Machine: Invatech 870 ($389)
The 870 is the professional standard for suburban yards. 4-5L tank capacity provides 20-35 minutes continuous runtime, covering half-acre to three-quarter-acre properties efficiently. Most residential pest control operators standardize on the 870 for daily work.
Large Properties (1-2+ Acres, Commercial/Municipal)
Recommended Machine: Invatech 915 ($399)
The 915's massive 16-liter tank delivers 60-90+ minutes continuous runtime, covering 1-2 acres without refilling. Ideal for commercial properties, municipal territories, large residential estates, and multi-property operator routes.
Invatech 868, 870, 915: Complete Comparison
Tank: 4L
Runtime: 15-25 min
Coverage: 0.25 acres
Price: $369
Tank: 4-5L
Runtime: 20-35 min
Coverage: 0.5+ acres
Price: $389
Tank: 16L
Runtime: 60-90+ min
Coverage: 1-2 acres
Price: $399
Detailed Model Specifications
Invatech 868: Entry-Level Outdoor Fogger
- Tank Capacity: 4 liters (1.06 gallons)
- Engine: Compact fuel-efficient
- Runtime per Tank: 15-25 minutes continuous fogging
- Area Coverage per Tank: Quarter-acre (~1,000 sq ft)
- Daily Treatment Capacity: 10-15 residential yards
- Weight: Lightweight, minimal operator fatigue
- Best For: Small properties, part-time operators, condos, townhomes, first-time users
- Advantage: Lowest initial investment, perfect for residential yards under quarter-acre
- Limitation: Frequent refilling needed for properties over one acre
Invatech 870: Professional Commercial Standard
- Tank Capacity: 4-5 liters (1.3 gallons)
- Engine: Balanced performance and reliability
- Runtime per Tank: 20-35 minutes continuous fogging
- Area Coverage per Tank: Half-acre to three-quarter-acre (~800-1,200 sq ft)
- Daily Treatment Capacity: 15-25 residential yards or 5-10 commercial properties
- Weight: Balanced weight distribution for all-day operation
- Best For: Professional pest control operators, established services, mixed residential/commercial work
- Advantage: Most popular model, proven reliability, optimal tank-to-weight ratio for daily use
- Proven Track Record: Industry standard for high-volume pest control operations
Invatech 915: Enterprise-Grade Large Property Fogger
- Tank Capacity: 16 liters (4.2 gallons) - LARGEST AVAILABLE
- Engine: 63.3cc professional-grade
- Air Output: 4,200+ CFM for dense vegetation penetration
- Runtime per Tank: 60-90+ minutes continuous fogging
- Area Coverage per Tank: 1-2 acres per fill without refilling
- Daily Treatment Capacity: 25-40+ large properties or multi-acre territories
- Weight: Heavier unit, compensated by extended runtime (fewer refills)
- Best For: Municipal contracts, large property management, multi-operator businesses, acre+ properties
- Advantage: Extended runtime eliminates intermediate refilling, handles large commercial jobs efficiently
- Premium Investment: Only $30 more than 870, dramatically increases daily capacity for commercial work
Coverage & Runtime Comparison Chart
| Specification | Invatech 868 | Invatech 870 | Invatech 915 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tank Capacity | 4L | 4-5L | 16L |
| Runtime per Tank | 15-25 min | 20-35 min | 60-90+ min |
| Coverage per Tank | 0.25 acres (~1,000 sq ft) | 0.5+ acres (~1,200-1,500 sq ft) | 1-2 acres (~2,000+ sq ft) |
| Acres per Hour | 0.5-1 acre/hour | 1-1.5 acres/hour | 2 acres/hour |
| Daily Treatments (Residential) | 10-15 | 15-25 | 25-40+ |
| Refill Frequency | Every 20-25 min | Every 25-35 min | Every 60-90+ min |
| Operator Fatigue | Minimal | Low | Moderate (offset by fewer refills) |
| Price | $369 | $389 | $399 |
| Best Property Size | 0.1-0.5 acres | 0.5-1.5 acres | 1+ acres |
Real-World Use Cases & Applications
Residential: Suburban Quarter-Acre to Acre Properties
Scenario: Homeowner with half-acre lot needs weekly mosquito fogging during summer. Property has dense vegetation, overgrown landscape, and standing water areas.
Solution: Invatech 870 ($389). Single tank covers entire property. 20-35 minute fogging session eliminates all mosquitoes. Weekly treatments maintain 10-14 day residual protection. Seasonal revenue opportunity: $60-100 per treatment × 15 treatments = $900-$1,500.
HOA Community: Multiple Quarter-Acre Lots
Scenario: HOA manages 40-lot community with shared yards, common areas, and playground. Requires weekly fogging to maintain property values and resident satisfaction.
Solution: Invatech 870 or 915. Single operator can treat 10-15 properties per day with minimal refilling (870) or one-tank treatment of common areas plus individual lots (915). Monthly contract value: $2,000-$3,000+ for weekly community fogging.
Municipality: Large Neighborhood Prevention Program
Scenario: City health department implements West Nile Virus prevention in high-risk neighborhood. Requires treatment of 10+ block area with focus on parks, common areas, and residential properties.
Solution: Invatech 915 or fleet of 870s. The 915's extended runtime (60-90+ minutes) enables treatment of 2-4 city blocks without refilling. Weekly municipal contract: $5,000-$10,000+ annually. Professional, proven equipment satisfies government procurement standards.
Commercial: Large Property Management
Scenario: Property manager oversees 3-acre office park with landscaping, retention ponds, and parking area. Requires bi-weekly fogging to maintain tenant satisfaction and prevent disease transmission.
Solution: Invatech 915. Single tank handles entire 3-acre property. 90-minute continuous fogging covers office park, perimeter, landscape zones, and retention pond areas in one efficient session. Quarterly treatment schedule: $4,000-$6,000+ annual revenue.
Mold Remediation: Post-Water Damage Treatment
Scenario: Water damage restoration company needs to fog large building (10,000+ sq ft) for mold spores and bacteria after flood event.
Solution: Invatech 915 with antimicrobial solution. Extended runtime enables complete interior building treatment without operator breaks. Mold fogging project: $500-$1,000+ added to water restoration contract. High-margin add-on service. See: Mold Fogging Professional Guide.
Professional Outdoor Application Techniques
Pre-Treatment Inspection
- Identify mosquito breeding areas (standing water, low drainage spots)
- Note dense vegetation where insects hide
- Mark treatment perimeter and priority zones
- Check weather forecast (calm conditions, no rain expected)
- Confirm family and pets indoors or removed from area
Equipment Preparation
- Inspect machine for leaks and proper operation
- Pre-mix pesticide solution per label directions (typically 1-2 oz per gallon)
- Fill tank to proper level (avoid overfilling)
- Test fog output before entering treated area
- Wear full PPE (long sleeves, pants, gloves, mask, safety glasses)
Outdoor Application Pattern
- Start Position: Begin at property perimeter (upwind if possible)
- Movement: Work systematically toward center in overlapping passes
- Fogging Height: Maintain 5-10 feet from treated vegetation for proper mist dispersion
- Slow Motion: Use deliberate, slow sweeping movements to ensure complete coverage
- Vegetation Undersides: Angle fogger upward to reach leaf undersides where insects hide
- Mulch & Soil: Direct fog toward ground-level areas and mulch where gnats breed
- Retreat: Back away from treated area as fog settles (allow 30-60 minutes before re-entry)
Large Property Strategy (1+ Acres)
- Divide large properties into zones (front, side, back, common areas)
- Use Invatech 915 for single-pass coverage of entire zone
- Treat perimeter vegetation and fence lines first (mosquito flight paths)
- Move toward center, treating shaded areas and dense foliage
- Pay special attention to areas near water (retention ponds, irrigation, gutters)
- Document treatment completion with photos/timestamps
Weather Considerations for Outdoor Fogging
Ideal Fogging Conditions
- Temperature: 60-95°F (optimal results above 70°F)
- Wind: Calm conditions, below 5 mph (higher wind disperses fine mist away from target)
- Humidity: Moderate to high (helps mist stay airborne longer)
- Time of Day: Early morning (6-8 AM) or evening (after 6 PM) when insects least active
- Cloud Cover: Overcast conditions better than bright sun (UV degrades some actives)
Conditions to Avoid
- Rain: Never apply during active rain or immediately before expected precipitation (washes off product)
- High Wind: Never apply in wind above 10 mph (disperses mist away from target area)
- Extreme Heat: Avoid application above 95°F (product degrades, operator safety risk)
- Near Pollinators: Avoid early morning if flowers are open (bees foraging)
- Immediately After Rain: Wait 1-2 hours for vegetation to dry for optimal coverage
Post-Treatment Weather Impact
- Light rain (less than 0.5 inches) within 24 hours: minimal impact on residual
- Heavy rain (2+ inches) within 48 hours: respray needed to maintain protection
- Extended drought: longer residual (product stays on vegetation longer)
- Humid conditions: extended residual (product remains active on foliage)
Outdoor Machine Maintenance & Care
Pre-Season Preparation
- Change spark plug and air filter
- Check all seals and gaskets for damage
- Test engine start and idle performance
- Verify tank integrity and spray nozzle function
- Clean all parts and check fuel lines for cracks
Between-Treatment Maintenance
- Empty tank and rinse with water after each use
- Allow engine to cool before refueling
- Check fuel level and top up before next treatment
- Inspect spray nozzle for clogs (clean with small wire if needed)
- Wipe down backpack straps and fittings
End-of-Season Storage
- Run engine dry or add fuel stabilizer to last tank
- Clean entire machine thoroughly before storage
- Store in cool, dry location away from direct sunlight
- Drain any remaining fuel from carburetor
- Store in upright position on stable surface
Professional Service Schedule
- Annual professional servicing recommended (spark plug, filter, seal replacement)
- Repair any damage immediately to prevent escalation
- Keep maintenance log documenting all service work
- Parts availability: Invatech machines use common components
Outdoor Fogger Machine FAQ
What size outdoor fogger machine do I need for my yard?
Choose based on property size: Invatech 868 for quarter-acre or smaller, 870 for half-acre to 1.5 acres, 915 for 1+ acres or multi-property commercial work. Larger tanks reduce refilling frequency and increase daily productivity. When in doubt, size up to the next model.
How long does one tank last?
Runtime per tank: 868 (15-25 minutes), 870 (20-35 minutes), 915 (60-90+ minutes). Actual runtime depends on terrain, vegetation density, and fogging pattern. Hilly properties require more passes; flat areas cover faster.
Can I use the outdoor fogger machine for indoor applications?
Yes. All Invatech models (868, 870, 915) can be used indoors for mold fogging, disinfection, and odor remediation. The same ULV technology works in enclosed spaces with proper ventilation. Use EPA-registered antimicrobial solutions for indoor use. See: Mold Fogging Guide and Bug Fogger Guide.
What's the difference between the 870 and 915?
Tank capacity: 870 has 4-5L (20-35 min runtime, covers 0.5+ acres), 915 has 16L (60-90+ min runtime, covers 1-2 acres). The 915 is only $10 more expensive and dramatically increases daily treatment capacity for commercial operations. For part-time residential use, 870 is sufficient; for professional pest control, 915 pays for itself in first week.
Is outdoor fogging safe for families and pets?
Yes, when applied following EPA label directions. ULV applications use less than 3 oz/acre—minimal chemical exposure. Apply early morning or evening when families indoors. Allow 30-60 minutes for product to settle before outdoor activities. EPA-approved products are safe for yard use. See CDC home mosquito control guidelines.
How often should I fog my yard?
Seasonal schedule: Every 7-10 days during peak season (June-August), every 10-14 days during shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October), every 21-30 days during winter (November-March). Frequency depends on mosquito pressure and rainfall. See detailed schedules in our Mosquito Sprayer for Yard guide.
Can I operate an outdoor fogger machine without training?
Yes. Invatech outdoor foggers require no special licensing or certification to operate. Basic training (15-30 minutes) covers equipment operation, chemical mixing, and safety protocols. Most users are comfortable after first treatment.
What pesticides work best with outdoor fogger machines?
Professional ULV-labeled products: Talstar P (bifenthrin), Permethrin, Cypermethrin, Bifen IT, BITHOR SC. Mix per label directions (typically 1-2 oz concentrate per gallon water). Combination with IGRs (Martin's I.G.R.) disrupts insect lifecycle for 2-4 week control. Learn more: Foggers for Gnats and Commercial Mosquito Sprayer.
Complete Buying Guide: Which Outdoor Fogger Machine is Right for You?
Choose Invatech 868 If You:
- Have a quarter-acre or smaller property
- Are starting a part-time fogging service
- Operate on a tight budget ($369 investment)
- Prefer lightweight equipment with minimal fatigue
- Want professional results for residential yards only
Choose Invatech 870 If You:
- Have half-acre to 1.5-acre property or service multiple residential accounts
- Are establishing professional pest control service
- Need balanced tank capacity and daily treatment volume (15-25 treatments)
- Operate in suburban neighborhoods with standard yard sizes
- Value industry-standard equipment (most popular professional model)
Choose Invatech 915 If You:
- Have large properties (1+ acres) or multi-acre commercial contracts
- Operate professional multi-operator pest control business
- Manage municipal contracts or large property management accounts
- Need extended runtime to reduce refilling and increase daily capacity (25-40+ treatments)
- Want to maximize operational efficiency and revenue per day
Start-Up vs. Expansion Investment
Starting Out (Single Operator): Begin with Invatech 868 or 870 ($369-389). Low investment, quick ROI (4-6 treatments break even), perfect for testing market demand. Upgrade to 870/915 as customer base grows.
Scaling Business (2+ Operators): Primary machines (870 or 915) for high-volume work, backup 868 for overflow or part-time coverage. Total equipment investment $1,000-$1,500 for full operational fleet.
Related Invatech Resources & Learning Center
Professional Guides & Educational Resources
- Mosquito Sprayer for Yard: Complete ULV Guide – Professional yard mosquito control with Invatech equipment, disease vector prevention, and application techniques
- Foggers for Gnats: Professional ULV Gnat Control Guide – Fungus gnat, biting gnat, and fruit fly treatment with BITHOR SC + IGR lifecycle disruption strategies
- Commercial Mosquito Sprayer: Professional Equipment for Pest Control Business – Revenue models, pricing strategies, and multi-operator scaling for commercial operations
- Complete Mosquito Fogger Guide: Everything You Need to Know – Comprehensive resource covering equipment operation, application methods, seasonal schedules, and business models
- Mold Fogging: Professional ULV Remediation Guide – Post-water damage mold elimination protocols and antimicrobial solution recommendations
- Bug Fogger Guide: Professional Pest Control Equipment – Complete guide to general pest control fogging applications and techniques
- Mosquito Fogger Florida: Complete State Guide – Florida-specific recommendations for all cities and regions with year-round fogging schedules
- Mosquito Fogger Texas: Complete Texas Control Guide – Texas-specific seasonal schedules, climate considerations, and application timing
- Buy Mosquito Foggers USA: Invatech 868, 870, 915 Nationwide – National purchasing guide with detailed model comparisons and ordering information
Government & Regulatory Resources
Official Standards & Compliance Information
- EPA Pesticide Information – Federal regulations, product registration requirements, label compliance, and application guidelines
- EPA Pesticide Applicators – State licensing and certification requirements by jurisdiction
- CDC Mosquito-Borne Diseases – West Nile Virus, Zika, dengue, chikungunya transmission data and prevention strategies
- CDC Home Mosquito Control Guidelines – Safety protocols and best practices for residential yard treatment
- Association of American Pesticide Control Officials (AAPCO) – State pesticide licensing standards and professional applicator requirements
- American Mosquito Control Association (AMCA) – Professional standards, best practices, and equipment specifications
Professional Research & Technical References
Industry Data & Scientific Studies
- Entomology Today: ULV Spray Effectiveness – Peer-reviewed research demonstrating ULV fogging reduces West Nile Virus transmission significantly
- ASU Research: Temperature Impact on Mosquito Control – Study on seasonal temperature patterns and disease transmission peaks
- UC Davis IPM: Fungus Gnat Control – University integrated pest management protocols for fungus gnat elimination
- Mosquito Squad: ULV Fogging Services – Professional ULV fogging methodology and commercial application information
Summary: Professional Outdoor Fogger Machines
Invatech 868, 870, and 915 are professional-grade outdoor fogger machines engineered for comprehensive yard and large property pest control. From quarter-acre residential yards to multi-acre commercial properties, these machines deliver EPA-approved disease vector control, rapid coverage, and residual protection that hand spraying and aerosols cannot match.
Choose based on property size: 868 for small properties, 870 for suburban standard, 915 for large commercial. All three deliver identical ULV technology and professional results. Extended runtime (60-90+ minutes on 915) dramatically increases daily treatment capacity and operator efficiency.
Professional outdoor foggers are essential equipment for pest control operators, property managers, municipalities, and homeowners seeking effective mosquito, gnat, and large-area pest management. Initial investment ($369-399) breaks even in 4-6 treatments. Seasonal revenue opportunities ($9,000-50,000+) make professional outdoor fogging a proven business model.
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