Cold fogging and thermal fogging have similarities and differences. Both types of fogging use special machines that turn solutions into fog. Both methods are also effective at disinfection or pest and mold control. You can choose either type of fogging to get the job done.
Thermal fogging is being done by Delta Airlines and also other airlines. The purpose is to disinfect between plane rides. The CDC says that regular disinfection is crucial for slowing down the spread of the novel coronavirus, as well as other diseases.
Like its name implies, cold fogging does not use heat. The machine uses high pressure and swirling airflow to turn liquid solution into airborne particles. Cold fog comes out of the nozzle. The particles disperse around the room. Because of their small size, the particles can reach into smaller spaces. It is very thorough.
Thermal foggers use heat to turn solutions into water droplets. The particles are very small. Heat vaporizes the liquid solution after it is pumped into the heat barrel. The fog from the machine tends to be very dense and visible. You can see where it is being sprayed as it is sprayed.