Why does cold steam come out of the nebulizer?

06.02.2025

When it comes to inhalation therapy, many people are faced with the question: why does cold steam come out of the nebulizer? This is doubtful for those who are used to steam inhalers, where hot steam is used. But the principle of operation of the nebulizer is completely different. In this article, we will explain exactly how the nebulizer works and why its vapor remains cold. Device and principle of operation of nebulizer:
Nebulizer is a modern medical device that converts liquid medicine into an aerosol consisting of tiny particles. In compressor models, this process occurs due to the creation of a powerful air flow. The air passes through the medication solution, breaking it into particles of optimal size (2-5 microns), which allows the medication to penetrate deep into the respiratory tract.
On the example of B.Well MED-120 you can consider the device and the principle of operation of the nebulizer in more detail. The device includes the following main elements:
Compressor, which creates a stream of air for atomization.
Nebulizer chamber, where the drug solution is converted into an aerosol.
Masks and mouthpieces, through which the aerosol enters the patient's respiratory tract.
Filters that clean the air supplied to the device. This method of drug delivery helps to deliver the drug directly to the area of inflammation, bypassing the gastrointestinal tract and reducing the risk of side effects. Nebulizer inhalations can provide fast and effective treatment of the respiratory tract, especially obstructive bronchitis and asthma.
Why does cold steam come out of the nebulizer?
The reason is in the device of the nebulizer and its principle of operation. Unlike a steam inhaler, where the liquid is heated to boiling, a compressor nebulizer does not use heating. In compressor nebulizers, cooling of the aerosol occurs due to a sharp drop in compressed air pressure at the outlet of the nebulizer, which reduces the temperature of the aerosol by 7-10 ° C below ambient. There is nothing wrong with this.
The air feels cold because the vapor temperature is lower than the body temperature. This allows the medicine to retain its properties that would be destroyed by high temperatures. This makes it safe and comfortable to use the nebulizer, even for young children.
If you notice that the steam seems “cold” - this is absolutely normal and indicates the correct operation of the device. Usually you get used to it in 1-2 minutes. And if there are other problems with the nebulizer, for example, the device stops generating vapor or works unstably, it may be due to improper assembly, clogged filter or the need to replace some elements.
Here are its main advantages:
Compactness and portability. Small size and light weight allow you to take the device with you on the road.
Versatility. Suitable for both adults and children due to the presence of two masks in the kit.
Quiet operation. Low noise level makes the use of nebulizer comfortable procedure, which is especially important for babies.
High efficiency. Aerosol with particles of optimal size penetrates deep into the respiratory tract, providing rapid treatment of the respiratory tract.
State-of-the-art power supply. The ability to operate from a Powerbank or laptop via Micro-USB cable makes it convenient for use in any environment.
Inhalation therapy using nebulizers opens new horizons in the treatment of respiratory system diseases. Cold aerosol is not a disadvantage, but an important advantage that ensures the safety of medicines and comfort for users. And compact and effective nebulizer B.Well MED-120 will be a reliable assistant for the whole family!