This method is commonly circulated online, but is actually a misleading indicator of true laminar flow. A flame is too sensitive and reacts to minor air disturbances, including those caused by heat currents from the flame itself or room turbulence—not just from airflow inconsistencies. Laminar flow is defined as parallel, unidirectional air movement, but even in perfect laminar conditions, a lighter flame may still appear to "flicker" due to these unrelated factors.

Here’s what can truly indicate performance instead:

• Use a fine smoke or fog source like a glycerin-based fog machine or theatrical smoke to visualize the flow. You'll see a smooth, uniform stream if the hood is functioning correctly.
• Agar, open agar plates in front of the hood for several minutes, incubate for 2-3 days and check results.
• Confirm that your work area is free from ceiling fans, HVAC vents, or open doors, which can disrupt laminar flow even temporarily

If you tried the performace in those ways and still need assistance, you can send us a short video of your setup and how you're testing it, we’d be happy to review it and offer any adjustments or tips to optimize performance.

Yes, you can! We do not sell any, but you can purchase a third party speed controller to really dial in the speed of your flow hood.

Yes! We are located in Woodstock, IL. Just contact us and let us know you would like to pickup your order and we can arrange a day/time