Can I Install Misters on My Patio Covering?

It can be exhausting to spend time outdoors during Arizona’s warm months when temperatures are over 100-degrees Fahrenheit. If you don't have the budget, space or desire to install a pool, a patio awning with a misting system may be the perfect option for you.

Outdoor cooling solutions like misting systems provide homeowners and businesses with an affordable, energy-efficient option for cooling their backyard or patio space. Misters can be installed onto nearly any stationary patio awning or shade covering for a seamless appearance and effective overhead cooling.

What Is an Outdoor Misting System?

Designed to provide relief from the heat, outdoor misting systems create a fine mist of water emitted from spray nozzles that are placed along the water supply tubing (rigid pipe or flexible hose). Some models do not require electricity because they can connect to a standard garden hose and use the house or building’s existing water pressure. Higher quality misting systems do require electricity and a water pump.

How Does a Misting System Work?

Misting systems use what’s called evaporative cooling, which is when water droplets go from a liquid to a gas (evaporate) and absorb heat to reduce the surrounding temperature up to 30-degrees Fahrenheit. This means that the smaller the water droplets the quicker they evaporate and cool a shaded area.

What Are the Types of Misting Systems Available?

• Low-pressure misting systems utilize the existing pressure of a home’s main water supply, which is between 40 to 60 pounds per square inch (psi). They tend to be the first choice for homeowners because they are cost-effective and easy to install.

• Mid-pressure misting systems boost a home or building’s water pressure anywhere from 160 to 250 psi using an electric pump. They are more expensive than the low-pressure models, so they may be a better investment for homeowners who spend a lot of time outdoors and businesses with outdoor seating needs.

• High-pressure misting systems require electricity and large misting pumps to increase the water pressure anywhere between 750 to 1,000 psi. They often work best in commercial settings where the area to cool is much bigger.

Outdoor Areas Where It Might Make Sense to Install Misters

• Grill or BBQ deck
• Seating area
• Dining area
• Bar
• Garden
• Pool

What Are the Benefits of Installing a Misting System?

For a good portion of the year, Arizona sees hot temperatures for several consecutive months. When it comes to things to do during the summer months, the two typical options are to stay indoors or go to the pool. Imagine being able to enjoy your patio or outdoor space comfortably on those warm days when you would rather relax or entertain outside than be stuck inside.

Misting systems make a great addition to any patio, gazebo, deck or shade structure. They are beneficial for an outdoor space for the following reasons:

1. They are an energy-efficient cooling method, especially models that don’t require pumps.
2. They aren’t as large of an investment as a swimming pool or swamp cooler, so they are more budget friendly.
3. They tend to be easy to install, which means little to no installation costs depending on the type or model.
4. They typically use less water than an irrigation system, making them an environmentally friendly alternative for watering and misting plants.
5. They release water droplets that catch airborne pollutants like dust or allergens to clean the air.
6. They may deter insects like flies, mosquitos and bees from flying in and around the mist.

What Types of Shade Structures Can You Install Misters On?

Whether you are a homeowner looking to upgrade your backyard patio or a business owner hoping to create a pleasant environment for your customers, outdoor misting systems can be installed onto nearly any shade covering or structure. From patio awnings and gazebos to canopies and umbrellas, you can find a misting system that will work for your outdoor space.

As long as your shade structure is strong enough to support the water and its supply tubing, there is virtually no reason why you couldn’t add misters to your backyard or patio. You can even use a free-standing, vertical misting system that doesn’t require installation if you have something like a retractable awning.

Discover Your Phoenix Shade Solutions with Arizona Awnings

If you want to pair a new outdoor awning or shade structure with misters, feel free to contact our installation team. We can help you understand the variables involved and the types of misters that might work with your shade solution.

At Arizona Awnings, we offer high-quality, durable awnings and shade structure to homeowners and businesses in Phoenix, Scottsdale and Tempe.

Give us a call at 602-252-3430 for a free on-site consultation and personalized estimate.