Ultra Low Volume (ULV) method

The Ultra Low Volume (ULV) method is a cold-fogging technique that applies highly concentrated pest control formulations in minimal quantities. Using a ULV generator, the product is broken down into microdroplets that disperse evenly throughout the treated space, maximizing coverage and effectiveness while reducing the volume of chemical used and the environmental impact. It is one of the most widely used space-treatment methods in the professional control of flying and exposed insects.

How it works

ULV equipment uses a high-velocity airstream, with no application of heat, to fragment the pest control solution into ultra-fine droplets between 5 and 50 microns. Unlike thermal fogging, which generates smoke through heat, cold fogging preserves the properties of the active ingredient and prevents thermal degradation. These microdroplets are light enough to remain suspended in the air for an extended period, allowing them to reach cracks, corners, and hard-to-access areas where insects take shelter.

Droplet size is the critical factor of the method: droplets that are too large fall to the floor instead of floating, while correct calibration of the generator ensures the cloud of microdroplets contacts insects in flight or at rest on exposed surfaces. For this reason, flow rate, dilution, and application pattern must be adjusted to each space by trained personnel.

When it's used

ULV is primarily indicated for controlling flying and exposed insects such as mosquitoes, flies, moths, and other free-flying insects. It is especially useful in treating large spaces that require fast, uniform product distribution:

• Warehouses, storerooms, and distribution centers with large volumes of air.
• Food plants and industrial facilities where space control is needed without saturating surfaces with product.
• Commercial spaces, parking areas, and open or semi-open areas with mosquitoes and flies.

Because of its speed, it is also valuable in situations requiring an immediate reduction of the adult insect population, later complemented by sanitation and breeding-site control measures.

Advantages and considerations

Among its main advantages, ULV uses a reduced volume of product compared with conventional spraying, which lowers chemical exposure and waste. Its application is fast, covers large volumes in a short time, and reaches hard-to-access areas thanks to the prolonged suspension of the microdroplets.

Like any technique, it has honest considerations: it is a space treatment, so its residual effect is limited and it acts mainly on the insects present at the moment of application. Its performance depends on factors such as air currents, ventilation, and keeping the space closed during the exposure period. It does not replace breeding-site control or exclusion and sanitation measures, so it is recommended as part of a broader program to achieve sustained results.

Safety and regulations

ULV fogging is carried out by trained and certified personnel, using personal protective equipment (PPE) and following the procedures established in standard NOM-256-SSA1-2012, which regulates the sanitary conditions for pest control services. Fucesa operates with a current health license from COFEPRIS and uses authorized products, respecting dosages, re-entry times, and safety measures for people, pets, and food present on the premises.

Why Fucesa

With more than 40 years of experience in pest control, at Fucesa we apply ULV within an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) framework. Before fogging, we perform an inspection and diagnosis to identify species, infestation sources, and the conditions of the space, so that the technique is complemented with monitoring, sanitation, and prevention measures. Our team calibrates each application to the property and follows up on results, delivering a professional service from our headquarters in Toluca and our operation in Querétaro.