How electrostatic sprayers work
An electrostatic sprayer gives disinfectant droplets an electrical charge as they leave the nozzle. The charged droplets are drawn toward surfaces, which can help coat desks, chairs, equipment and fixtures more evenly than a standard trigger sprayer in a large space.
The sprayer does not make the disinfectant stronger. The product's effectiveness still depends on what its EPA label claims, whether the surface was cleaned first, and whether the surface stays wet long enough.
What the research and labels say
EPA describes electrostatic application directions as something a product's registrant adds to the label, specifying contact time, spray distance, protective equipment, and a requirement that bystanders and pets be out of the room. We use electrostatic sprayers only with products whose labels include those directions.
EPA researchers who evaluated electrostatic sprayers found limited wrap-around coverage, meaning the backs and sides of objects may not receive as much product as marketing suggests. They also warned that if surfaces do not stay wet for the full contact time, the disinfectant may not work.
Spaces where it tends to fit
- Classrooms and daycares with many desks, chairs and shared items
- Open-plan offices and conference rooms
- Gyms, studios and locker rooms with equipment and benches
- Waiting rooms and lobbies
- Churches and event spaces with rows of seating
- Buses, vans and other fleet vehicles
Our application process
- Walk through We review the space, identify high-touch areas and note anything that must be protected or removed, such as food or electronics.
- Clean Soiled surfaces are cleaned first, because a disinfectant cannot work well on dirt and residue.
- Clear the room People and pets leave the area, as the product labels for electrostatic use require.
- Apply We spray at the label distance, then follow up by hand on the most frequently touched surfaces.
- Hold contact time Surfaces stay visibly wet for the full label contact time before anyone returns.
- Record We note the product, its EPA registration number and the areas treated.
Preparing your space
Before we arrive, put away food, dishes and personal items, and cover or move sensitive electronics where possible. Let us know about any surfaces that should not be treated. Plan for the area to be empty during application and until the label allows re-entry, which is why many schools, offices and rental common areas schedule us after hours.
Electrostatic application works on hard surfaces that the product label covers. Porous items, upholstery and soft furnishings may need a different approach or may not be suitable for disinfection at all.
Questions worth asking any provider
We are happy to answer each of these before we start, and to share the product's EPA registration number so you can look up the label yourself.
- Which product will you use, and does its label include electrostatic directions?
- What is the label contact time, and how will you make sure surfaces stay wet that long?
- Will surfaces be cleaned before spraying?
- When can people safely return to the room?
Choosing between methods
For a single restroom or a small fluid spill, wiping or direct spraying is usually more practical. Electrostatic spraying makes most sense when there are many objects to cover in a larger area. For a comparison with misting equipment, see disinfection fogging. Facilities that want regular visits can set up a commercial disinfection program. We work throughout Middle Tennessee from the Nashville area.