Before you can decide on the best mosquito killer you need to understand what your options are for mosquito control. We cover what we feel are the best mosquito killers, such as the impressive Mosquito Magnet and the classic Burgess mosquito fogger.
Beyond our recommended products, we spend a lot of time talking about mosquitoes and pack this article with facts, tips and advice in the hope that you will be inspired to take action and be proactive so you practice effective mosquito control to protect yourself, your family and friends during those backyard BBQ’s in the heat of summer.
With the Zika virus rapidly spreading into the USA, it’s essential that you know what your options are so you can invest your time and money wisely rather than wasting it on mosquito control measures that simply don’t work. Technology has come a long way in the fight against mosquitoes.
What’s the Best Mosquito Killer?
The products we cover in this article are as follows:
How Does a Mosquito Trap Work?
One of the products we recommend for killing mosquitoes is the Mosquito Magnet. Below you’ll find a video from the Discovery Channel that will help you understand how the product works and why the Mosquito Magnet is so effective at luring and killing mosquitoes. To put it simply, the mosquito killer releases the chemical (CO2) humans emit, thus tricking mosquitoes into believing that they’re attacking a human.
When they get close, it’s too late, as they get sucked into the net via a built-in vacuum.
It’s one of the most effective and one of the best mosquito killers on the market. Watch this video to understand the science behind CO2 mosquito traps.
Watch the video above and read more about the Mosquito Magnet later in the article.
Mosquitoes + Best Mosquito Killers | Guide
Mosquitoes seem to be the most well known insect on the planet. Their popularity however isn’t because they are loved — It is quite contrary to that. Mosquitoes have been the blight of homo sapiens existence ever since humans discovered the mosquitoes notorious bite.
Knowledge is power and it is often right to dig a little deeper and learn more about these pests that have no value whatsoever. On the surface, they seem invincible at times, but by the end of this article you’ll have the knowledge to deal with them effectively.
How much do we know about the dreaded mosquito? Is it really all that invincible? Let’s take a look at the species that has plagued our sleep on more nights than we can count!
The Mosquito
The word ‘Mosquito’ has Spanish origins and if you translate it back to its original language, you will find that ‘Mosquito’ means ‘Little fly’. Everyone who has seen a mosquito in action will attest to the fact that this description is very apt. The mosquito does look like a smaller and more lithe version of the fly. Like the fly, it has its own annoying habit. While the fly is attracted to food and scraps, the mosquito is attracted to blood.
A mosquito is a mosquito wherever you go, but did you know that there are over 3,000 species of mosquitoes in the world? The thought of 3,000 mosquitoes in a room is enough to make someone shudder. The thought of 3,000 species of mosquitoes will make you feel itchy at the very thought.
The Mosquito Bite
The mosquito lives by feeding off the blood of other living beings. Bear in mind that it is only the female mosquito that does this! These living beings can be vertebrates and invertebrates. In fact, it has been found that mosquitoes can even bite into some fish. The mouth-parts of the mosquito are tubular. These tubular structures pierce through the skin of their victim and the mosquito sucks the blood through it. Since the mosquito is really tiny, the amount of blood that it drains from it’s prey is very negligible. The real problem with a mosquito bite however, lies in the saliva of the mosquito.
The saliva of the mosquito is the irritant that causes the rash that you notice after the bite. The mosquito injects her saliva into the blood vessel at the time of the bite. This saliva acts as an anticoagulant, which means that it prevents the blood from clotting. It thereby keeps a continuous blood flow available at her disposal.
So why does the saliva effect us? This is because our body possesses a natural immune response to foreign bodies. The body perceives the saliva as a foreign product and releases histamines. Once the histamines are released, they make the blood vessel swell. This can be seen by the wheal that appears on your skin. This swelling affects the nearby nerve endings. The nerve endings now respond to the stimulus that they have received by making the skin in the vicinity itch. This intricate process that the body undergoes is seen just by the bump or itchy wheal on the skin. We call this bump ‘The mosquito bite’.
Mosquito Magnet Technology | Video
How Do Mosquitoes Hone in On Their Prey?
The mosquitoes use four main ways to hone in on their prey.
- Exhaled Carbon dioxide
- Body odors
- Body temperature
- Movement
It is important to note that the mosquito does not use the blood for itself. The female mosquito however uses the blood as a source of protein for the nourishment of their eggs. Like the male mosquitoes, the female mosquitoes derive their nourishment from nectar and other plant sugars.
Why Is The Mosquito Bite The Focus Of Our Attention?
Initially, the mosquito bite was just an annoyance. Even today it continues to be a major source of irritation. No one will dispute this. If they do, then send them out on a mosquito ridden night. They will soon find themselves on the same page that we are on.
Thought the world is a large enough space for the mosquitoes and us, three specific species of the mosquitoes carry a cause for concern. These are the Anopheles mosquitoes, the Culex mosquitoes and the Aedes mosquitoes.
So what makes these three species different from the rest? These three species act as the carriers for certain diseases. Let’s take a peek at what diseases these species can transmit.
The Anopheles Mosquito
The Anopheles mosquito has gained quite a reputation worldwide. This is because it is the only species of mosquito that is capable of transmitting malaria. While the Anopheles mosquito has gained itself a lot of popularity due to the ever increasing spread of malaria around the globe, few realize that this species is also responsible for the spread of Filariasis and Encephalitis.
The Culex Mosquito
The Culex mosquito is not as well known as the Anopheles mosquito. It however can transmit a number of deadly diseases. Like the Anopheles mosquito, the Culex mosquito is responsible for the spread of Filariasis and Encephalitis. In addition to these two diseases, the Culex mosquito can also carry the West Nile virus.
The Aedes Mosquito
The Aedes mosquito is known to transmit Yellow fever, Dengue and Encephalitis. Today however, this mosquito has made headlines with the newest virus that it transmits. This virus is none other than the Zika virus!
When Prevention Is Better Than Cure
Yes, a mosquito bite is annoying at best. With growing number of diseases that are being transmitted by mosquitoes, we find ourselves searching for ways to protect ourselves. The threat that a mosquito poses is far more than just a little itchiness.
Man has experimented with various methods of keeping mosquitoes at bay. Let us take a brief glance at what are the common methods that we employ.
Elimination of the breeding places
This method is probably the most simple and yet most complicated. It runs on a really simple line of thought. If you keep the area free of places where mosquitoes can breed, you will have fewer mosquitoes to deal with. It is complicated because it isn’t easy to eliminate all the breeding areas.
Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water. The best way to eliminate the breeding spaces is to ensure that there is no place where water can accumulate. It’s easier said than done. If you live in the tropics and you receive a lot of rain, then you will find yourself scouting around your backyard everyday! Still, the effort is worthwhile.
Exclusion
The thought process behind this process is simple. Keep the mosquitoes out of your living space. This has become one of the most popular methods and has been used for a couple of decades. Most people use window screens and mosquito nets to keep their homes mosquito free. In fact, you can often hear people shouting and closing their windows just before dusk. We all know that dusk is the time that mosquitoes favor!
Introduction of Biological control
The food cycle is very clear. There are those who eat and there are those that get eaten. It sometimes is very difficult to remove all the mosquito’s breeding places in the area we live in. An example would be a pond in the neighborhood. How do you deal with that? To combat that another technique was used. People started using fish and other animals that eat mosquitoes to slow down the breeding process. Fish form an excellent population control method because they eat the mosquito larvae. Less larvae means less mosquitoes!
Mosquito Dunks Kill Mosquito Larvae in Water
Repellents
The use of mosquito repellents has also gained popularity. These repellents can be used in various ways. Some come as creams and are lathered on the skin. Others are released as fragrance into the air. The Center for Disease Control has strict control over the contents of such repellents. Some popular approved substances are Picaridin and Eucalyptus oil.
The Best Mosquito Killer
With the number of diseases that a mosquito can transmit increasing by the day, everyone is on the hunt for the best mosquito killer on the market. Today, just repelling the mosquitoes or keeping them out of the house is just not enough. We need to ensure that we are careful not contract any diseases that they carry. That brings us to the main question. Which is the best mosquito killer on the market?
A number of gadgets come to mind. Some of the best mosquito killers lie in the range provided by the Mosquito magnet.
Mosquito Magnet | Best Mosquito Killer
The Mosquito magnet has four main models that they supply to the consumers. All four models are well equipped and can handle the eradication of mosquitoes from your property very well. They do differ in size and some have a few additional functions that the lower versions don’t have. Let’s take a peek at the four models that the Mosquito magnet provides us with.
Four Mosquito Magnet Models:
- Patriot (MM4100) | Best Value
- Independence (MM3200)
- Executive (MM3300)
- Commander (MM3400)
Patriot MM4100 | Mosquito Magnet | Most Popular
The Patriot model (MM4100) is the most affordable of the Mosquito Magnet series which translates into it being very popular with consumers. Let’s be honest, a Mosquito Magnet is a costly purchase, but from my perspective, it’s more of an investment. These are mosquito killing machines and they are well-engineered, durable and worth the money you spend on it. It will serve you well for many years to come so if you look at it over the long-term, it’s a smart buy.
Mosquitoes can make your life miserable if you’re passive and don’t take action early. Not only are mosquitoes a nuisance because of their bite, but beyond that, you should be more concerned about the diseases they carry. This year the Zika virus has been all over the news and as spring and summer approach there is a greater concern for residents of the USA as the virus is increasingly moving northward from South America.
Later in this article we provide you links to download several scientific studies that illustrate how effective the Mosquito Magnet truly is. A lot of manufacturers make claims about their products but in this case, it’s true. The title of ‘best mosquito killer’ is deserved and grounded in science. For example, in one study it was found that the Mosquito Magnet “…caught at least 365% more mosquitoes than the closest non- Mosquito Magnet competitor.”
Features:
- Lures, attracts and captures mosquitoes alongside other biting insects.
- Easy to maintain. Refill propane tank and replace attractant cartridge and net (if necessary) every 21 days.
- Self Contained net secures and eliminates interaction with insects.
- Safely operates 24 hours a day for the best results.
- Mosquito Magnet patented Catalytic Converter – converts propane into carbon dioxide (CO2), heat, and moisture to simulate human presence.
- Engineered with over 20 years of research and over 15 patents.
- Patented Mosquito Magnet Counterflow Technology – Lures, Captures, Controls mosquitoes.
- Silent, odorless. Dual-tone color design is proven to attract more mosquitoes.
- Easy assembly. All-weather performance. Heavy duty construction with reinforced base for added durability.
- Wheels allow you to easily move the device anywhere around your home.
- Backed by the exclusive Mosquito Magnet 360° Customer Support Program.
Video | See the Mosquito Magnet in Action
Patriot Mosquito Magnet | Overview
The Patriot is easily one of the most popular models. This is largely attributed to its smaller size and it’s affordability. The Patriot is the smallest of the four models that the Mosquito magnet has to offer. It is also the cheapest model in it’s range.
How does it work?
If you recall, mosquitoes are attracted to the Carbon dioxide we breathe out. They are also attracted to the heat our bodies emit. The Patriot uses this simple piece of information to capture the mosquitoes.
The trap emits Carbon dioxide, moisture and heat. In the eyes of a mosquito, this combination resembles a mammal. They get attracted towards the trap. The device has a vacuum that sucks the mosquitoes into it. They are then trapped in a rigid net. The mosquitoes die once they are trapped in the net.
Patriot Assembly Video | Mosquito Magnet
What are the other features that make this a great buy?
- The model is silent and odorless. This means that it is functions well without making it’s presence felt.
- It acts as a trap for mosquitoes. In addition to this the Patriot also traps other small biting insects.
- The trap is easy to operate.
- The manual advises the owner to operate the trap for 24 hours without a break at the very beginning. This helps to break the breeding habits of the mosquitoes.
- The choice of placement of this device is critical. You need to ensure that the device is placed upwind of the mosquitoes. This ensures that the wind blows the mosquitoes towards the device and allows it to do its job well.
- The device comes equipped with a 50 foot long cord. The cord even has yard clips. This ensures that the cord doesn’t get tangled or pose a nuisance in the yard.
- The Patriot works well in a yard that is around on acre in size.
The net is engineered so you never have to lay your hands on a mosquito. Once your Mosquito Magnet has started it will begin to work immediately, but expect noticeable results in 7 to 10 days and 4 weeks for a significant reduction in mosquito population. The earlier you start in the season the better off you and your family will be.
It’s recommended that you operate the mosquito trap 24 hours a day initially in order to disrupt the breeding cycle of the mosquitoes around your yard.
Independence MM3200 | Mosquito Magnet
This model (Independence MM3200) functions in the same way that the Patriot model does. It uses a combination of heat, moisture and carbon dioxide to attract the female mosquito towards it. Like the Patriot model, the Independence model catches the mosquitoes in a rigid net where they ultimately die.
There are however a few features that sets this model apart from the Patriot model. Let’s take a look at them.
- The model has a medium sized net which is used to trap the mosquitoes. This net requires to be changed once every 21 days.
- It runs on 4x C batteries which makes this model cordless. This eliminates the chances of tripping over long wires and also gives your yard an aesthetic look.
- The batteries need to be replaced multiple times in a season but it helps in portability. It also aids in better placement. Since the Independence model works on the same principle that the Patriot model does, placement remains a crucial factor in it’s efficiency!
- The Independence model has been specially constructed such that it is immune to even the harshest weather conditions.
- Like the Patriot model, the Independence model covers around one acre of land.
Video | Tune-up your Independence Mosquito Magnet
With four models to choose from, it’s important to think about what your true needs are. Do you really need a cordless model? This Independence model allows you to place the Mosquito Magnet anywhere on your property without having to worry about an electrical cord. Let’s be honest, this is a convenient feature to have. On the other hand, it’s more expensive than the Patriot.
What features do you truly need? This also has a larger net which means if you live in an area with a lot of mosquitoes then you’ll be emptying the net less often. Just be honest about your needs are and choose the appropriate model.
Executive MM3300 | Mosquito Magnet
This is the third model in the Mosquito magnet series. Like the previous two models, the Executive model also functions based on the same principle. It mimics the heat and carbon dioxide emitted from mammals to attract the mosquito closer to it. This model too captures the mosquito using a rigid net.
Let’s take a look at what is different with the Executive MM3300:
- It comes with rechargeable batteries, which means that you won’t have to go running to the store all the time.
- Smart Fuel-Saving Technology increases overall efficiency saving you money on propane.
- Monitors and informs you of basic maintenance, such as: net needs to be replaced or the attractant, battery power level, if propane tank is empty and if nozzle is clogged.
- The net size in this device is large.
- It is easy to assemble. It also has a heavy duty construction which makes it extremely durable. This is especially important in case the device is exposed to harsh weather conditions.
- It has wheels. This makes it more portable and easier to use.
- This model can be used in a yard which is up to one acre in size.
How the Technology Works to Kill Mosquitoes
Smart Technology
Why is this useful? Well, mosquitoes become active when the outdoor temperature is at or above 50°F and these little pests are most active at dawn. The Smart Technology feature enables the Mosquito Magnet Executive trap to automatically adjust to external conditions. It essentially maximizes mosquito control when it’s needed most and dramatically reducing propane usage and attractant waste when mosquitoes are not active.
Video | Executive Assembly and Start-up
Fuel Saving Modes
The Executive M3300 has an LCD panel which allows you to choose 4 unique fuel saving modes. These smart modes allow the mosquito trap to shut down and restart at pre-set times to optimize your propane consumption 24 hours a day.
The LCD panel is connected to sensors within the Mosquito Magnet that tells you a range of information so you don’t have to micro-manage your device, such as: When to replace the attractant or the net, when the battery power is low, when the propane tank is empty and if the propane nozzle is clogged.
Commander MM3400 | Mosquito Magnet
The Commander Model functions based on the patent technology that the other three Mosquito magnet models use. It however is the top of the line model and has the highest specifications when compared to the other three models. This is also the most costly model. Let’s take a look at what the Commander model has to offer.
- It has a rechargeable battery. This makes it easy to use. The battery also allows better portability. You are no longer confined to a space that has an electrical socket.
- The size of the net used to trap the mosquitoes is large.
- It covers an acre of land easily.
- This model comes with a smart fuel saving option. This makes it environment friendly.
- It also has a wireless technology. Now you can receive status updates from the device via text messages and/or emails.
Mosquito Magnet Attractants
Attractants are critical in effectively luring and trapping mosquitoes. And, there are different attractants that appeal to different species of mosquitoes. Sound complicated? Well, it’s not. Just watch this video to help you understand the role of mosquito attractants to maximize the effectiveness of the Mosquito Magnet.
You choose an attractant depending on where you live. As we talked about earlier, there are 3 main species of mosquitoes that you need to worry about and control: Culex, Aedes, Aedes albopictus
3 Main Attractants for the Mosquito Magnet:
- Octenol: Is a chemical that attracts biting insects such as mosquitoes. It is found in human breath and sweat.
- R-Octenol : Similar to Octenol, it attracts biting insects such as mosquitoes and no-see-ums. The advantage over regular Octenol is the active ingredient in R-Octenol lasts 40% longer than regular Octenol (around 30 days).
- Lurex3: Is unique because it mimic the scents emanating from human skin, which is also the reason behind why some people get bitten more than others. Yes, mosquitoes can be finicky. Lurex3 was engineered to specifically to lure, capture, and control hard-to-catch mosquito species such as the Asian Tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus).
As you can see from the map below, in the United States, you need Octenol, R-Octenol and/or Lurex3. In the southern US you need Lurex3l. Mosquitoes from south of the border do cross over. Unfortunately mosquitoes don’t follow the law, and building a wall won’t help.
It’s hard to notice when looking at the map, but all coastal regions require Octenol or R-Octenol. Different species of mosquitoes thrive along the US coast.
When buying on Amazon, you’ll notice that you have the choice to buy different bundles appropriate to different regions of the USA. So, make sure you take advantage of the bundles.
Scientifically Proven | Most Effective Mosquito Trap
There have been several scientific studies to show that the Mosquito Magnet is indeed one of the best mosquito killers you can buy. You can download them below or simply view them directly. When reading the studies you’ll notice that they are referencing older Mosquito Magnet models, such as the “Liberty” or “Defender.”
Bottom line, Mosquito Magnets were proven to be the best mosquito killer on the market over ten years ago and the technology has only improved since then.
View or download the Independent Tests:
- Mosquito Magnet — Hawaii
- Mosquito Magnet — Ft Myers – July 2004
- Mosquito Magnet — Atsena Otie Key – Florida
- Mosquito Magnet — Ft Myers – April 2004
- Mosquito Magnet — Cayman Islands Mosquito Research & Control Unit
Learn more about the Mosquito Magnet line of Mosquito Traps by visiting their website. It’s packed with useful information that will answer any questions you still have about this fantastic line of mosquito traps.
A wide range of videos on the manufacturers site provide additional information to help you decide if this mosquito killer is right for your needs. In the humble opinion of this writer, if you have mosquitoes in your yard and you want to control the population, then the Mosquito Magnet will quickly become your ally in the fight to control mosquitoes.
Mosquito Fogger | Propane & Electric
Video | Overview of the Burgess Mosquito Foggers
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=szlVWkMrfeQ
Another great way to get rid of mosquitoes is by using a fogger. The fogger uses a different technique compared to the Mosquito magnet devices. The mosquito fogger uses a chemical spray to fog up the area. This is a temporary solution but is effective in dealing with large areas.
The foggers themselves come in two different types. One is the cold fogger. This fogger uses electricity to work. This means that this fogger needs to be next to an electricity source at all times. This kind of foggers are useful for small areas because they lacks portability!
The second kind of foggers are thermal foggers. These foggers use a heating coil. The heating coil changes the liquid insecticide to a vapor form. The insecticide is then released in the air in the form of a mist or smoke. This device doesn’t depend on electricity. It is portable and easy to use.
Burgess 1443 Propane | Insect / Mosquito Fogger
What is a thermal fogger? A device which uses heat from combustion to produce a fog.
Features:
- Residential propane mosquito fogger.
- Convenient and portable. Take it anywhere, like camping, or other places where an electric fogger can’t be plugged in.
- Mosquito Foggers kill mosquitoes and flies instantly, and provides up to 6 hours of bug free control.
- Ideal for use before backyard picnics, barbeques, outdoor parties, pool parties, and special events.
- Fog large areas in under 10 minutes, depending on size.
- Uses tall propane canister, (like the Benzomatic TX8)
- Dispenses 10′ cone of odorless fog that works instantly to clear insects and mosquitoes.
View or download the MANUAL for the Burgess Propane Fogger.
Overview | Burgess Mosquito Fogger
When you talk about the foggers, you cannot end the discussion without discussing the Burgess 1443 Propane Insect fogger. This model is a prime example of foggers that are used around the world to control the mosquito population. In fact many governments in developing countries are sanctioning the use of these kind of foggers to ensure that they keep Malaria epidemics at bay.
Requires a Tall Style (14.1 oz.) Propane Cylinder
The drawback of a fogger is that’s it’s a temporary fix. Sure, you will kill all of the mosquitoes and bugs in the area but once the chemicals lose their effectiveness (up to 6 hours) then the insects will return to populate the area.
It’s important to understand the benefits of one type of mosquito control over another. The mosquito Magnet will continue to lure and kill mosquitoes 24/7, slowly destroying their breeding cycels, and products like Mosquito Bits and Dunks will kill the larvae and prevent mosquitoes from ever taking flight. My recommendation is to use multiple methods of attack rather than relying on only one product.
These products are an investment that you can use over decades so forget about the cost in the short-term because they will last you a long time once you make that initial investment.
Burgess 982 Thermo-Fogger | Electric Mosquito Fogger
The Burgess 982 is a heavy-duty electric professional thermal fogger designed for a range of applications, such as : Insect control, flood and fire restoration, and odor control with deodorizers.
Features:
- Effective insect fogger — killing and repelling mosquitoes, biting files, and flying insects for up to 6 hours.
- Electric pump.
- The same effective system used by professionals to kill mosquitoes that may carry the Zika virus or West Nile virus.
- Removable heating element for electric spraying capability. Utilizes a 110V power supply.
- For thermal fogging only use products formulated specifically for thermal fogging: oil or water-based solutions containing propylene glycol oils.
- Commercial-grade fogger ideal for flood and fire recovery and eliminating pet or mildew odor.
View or download the MANUAL for the Burgess 982 electric fogger.
Troubleshooting Video | Burgess 982
How Does the Burgess Electric Fogger Work?
When you pull the trigger an electric pump pushes liquid through a brass atomizing nozzle through a thermostatically controlled heating chamber in the barrel. The chemical inside is immediately vaporized once it reaches the heating chamber — and the result is a cloud of fog shooting out of the tip.
A quality fogger, like the Burgess 982 Thermo-Fogger, is due to its ability to reduce chemicals into microscopic particles averaging 15 microns in diameter (a micron measures 1/25,000 an inch). If you want a frame of reference, mist droplets range from 50 to 125 microns and regular spray droplets are more than 125 microns in size. Because the particles of the Burgess 982 Fogger are so minuscule, it enables the fog to find it’s way to easily spread through the air and penetrate every nook and cranny being sprayed.
Burgess 960 | Affordable Electric Fogger
If you want a less expensive electric fogger, I recommend the Burgess 960. It’s a fantastic mosquito fogger that won’t break the bank. The main disadvantage of an electric fogger is the fact you have to use an extension cord so if you have a large yard then a propane fogger will probably be a better choice. But, let me remind you that you can use your portable generator to run your electric fogger. Either way, you have options to cater to your specific needs.
View or download the MANUAL for the Burgess 960.
Recommended insecticide to use with your Burgess thermal fogger.
The Black Flag Fogging Insecticide is for use with your Burgess fogger. It has no offensive odor, and the fog dissipates quickly (in minutes), so you can fog just before your guests arrive for that backyard party.
Features:
- No mixing is necessary. Pour directly from bottle into fogger.
- Fog in late afternoon or early morning when wind is calm and mosquito activity increases.
- Thoroughly fog shrubs, ground-covers and lawn areas you wish to use.
- For outdoor use only. Do not use indoors or in enclosed spaces.
When fogging we highly recommend using a pesticide respirator to prevent you from inhaling any chemicals.
Professional ULV Tri-Jet Fogger | Insect Fogger | Non-Thermal
What is a non-thermal fogger (also known as a cold fogger)? Means that this product can atomize oil or water-based solutions without heat.
The Tri-Jet ULV fogger can be used both as a chemical fogger (IE. Mosquito Control) or for humidity control. Stainless steel and extremely well-built means this device will last for a long time. Made with an adjustable valve and a triple nozzle with two-stage action, capable of spraying a mist up to 30 feet. Designed to fog both water and oil based materials. Can be used indoors or outdoors.
Quiet, durable design and easy-to-use.
Includes: Intake Filter, Power Supply Cord (110V or 220V), Heavy Duty Motor, Triple Action Nozzle, Operation Instructions, Five Year Warranty
View or download : STUDY: Field comparison of thermal and non-thermal foggers.
Applications:
- Flying Insects
- Pest Control
- Mold / Humidity Control (Use Concrobium)
- Odor Control
- Disinfectants
- Sanitizer
Also effective when used for fumigation of air ducts, and can be used for a range of problems anywhere, including your basement, attic, barn or if you have a business, can be used in your warehouse. Versatile non-thermal fogger that can used for more than mosquito control.
Mosquito Bits and Mosquito Dunks | Mosquito Prevention
✓Here’s a brief overview of “Bits” and “Dunks” but if you want a comprehensive breakdown of these products, as well as more information on mosquitoes then I recommend reading our dedicated article on : Mosquito Bits & Dunks.
Mosquito Bits
Mosquito bits are designed to be used in damp swampy areas inundated with larvae. Basically, Mosquito bits are to be used when you need to take control and kill larvae immediately, otherwise known as “quick killing” chemicals. These ‘bits’ are corn cob granules coated in Bti, a chemical that will decimate mosquito populations fast.
The Mosquito Bits can also control Fungus Gnats in plant beds or pots through a similar mode of action as used to control mosquito larvae. Bits can be sprinkled on soil or even mixed with potting soil prior to planting; this will kill fungus gnat larvae with the same safety specific control as mosquito larvae. It’s a fancy chemical that targets mosquito and gnat larvae while being harmless to all other animals, including humans.
On the other hand, Mosquito dunks are for long-term control of mosquitoes. Use the ‘dunks’ a week after the ‘bits’ have done their damage. Or, the manufacturer recommends using Mosquito Bits every 2 weeks. It’s up to you on how to use the products, but if you have areas of standing water or a pond, then the Mosquito Dunks will be most effective as they last longer, and maintain control over several weeks at a time.
- View or download the Original Press Release for Mosquito Bits.
- View or download the Material Data and Safety Sheet for Mosquito Bits.
Mosquito Dunks | Ponds and Standing Water
The active ingredient in Mosquito Dunks is Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies israelensis. (B.t.i.). Bti. is a bacterium that is deadly to mosquito larvae but harmless to other living things.
How do Mosquito Dunks Work?
Mosquito Dunk are biodegradable and are ideal to be used in water troughs, ponds, birdbaths, rain barrels or any place where water collects and remains for long periods of time, especially after heavy rain during spring and summer months. If female mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water treated with a Mosquito Dunk, the larvae hatches and begins to eat the Bti, which in turn kills the mosquito larvae before grow to become full-blown biting and disease-spreading adults insects.
Learn more by reading the Mosquito Dunk fact sheet from the manufacturer (FAQ).
Flowtron Electronic Insect Killers
NOTE: The Flowtron bug zappers will not eradicate your yard from mosquitoes. I’m adding it to this article just so I can clarify this very point. Not all bugs are created equal. Mosquitoes are attracted to carbon dioxide, not light, which is why the CO2 Mosquito Magnet trap is one of the best mosquito killers available.
These Flowtron models will kill a lot of other flying insects, like moths and bees, but it’s basically useless against mosquitoes — unless you get the octenol cartridges.
Three different Flowtron Bug Zappers:
- Flowtron BK-15D | .5 Acre — 15 Watts
- Flowtron BK-40D | 1 Acre — 40 Watts
- Flowtron BK-80D | 1.5 Acres — 80 Watts
NOTE: These electric mosquito killers are for outdoor use only. Don’t use these indoors.
These Flowtron Insect zappers are fairly popular with consumers but they are not very effective at killing mosquitoes, here’s why:
These traps are not effective at killing biting insects (female mosquitoes and other insects), being much more effective at attracting and killing other harmless and beneficial insects. A study by the University of Delaware showed that over period of 15 summer nights 13,789 insects were killed between six devices. Of those insects killed only 31 were biting insects. Mosquitoes are attracted to carbon dioxide and water vapor in the breath of mammals, not ultraviolet light. However, there are now bug zappers that emit carbon dioxide or use an external bait, such as octenol, to better attract biting insects into the light. [Wikipedia]
You can greatly enhance the effectiveness of these Flowtron products to kill mosquitoes by using an octenol attractant. In fact, if your goal is to kill mosquitoes and you don’t want to spend too much money then the octenol attractant cartridges are essential. Without the octenol, you can forget about killing mosquitoes. It won’t happen.
Flowtron MA-1000-6 Octenol Cartridges | Mosquito Trap
Common features among all three Flowtron models:
- Patented, high efficiency, non-clogging killing grid.
- Transformer-powered Vertical Rod killing grid system.
- FREE USDA-tested Octenol mosquito attractant slow release cartridge.
- Rugged, weatherproof polycarbonate construction: will not rust, crack or fade.
- Easy to replace bulbs — no tools required.
- Inexpensive to operate; only pennies a day.
- Two-year limited warranty.
First Bug Zapper from 1911
The first actual patent for an insect zapper was filed back in 1934 — many years after this 1911 prototype was developed by two men from Denver, Colorado. Apparently it was too expensive to build. View the patent from the official 1934 patent : Insect exterminator US 1962439 — filed by: William F. Folmer and Harrison L. Chapin, from Rochester, New York
I must admit, it’s eerie at how similar the overall design is to the Flowtron bug zappers. You have to bear in mind that this design is over 80 years old and fairly low-tech in comparison to a product like the CO2 Mosquito Magnet.
Aspectek Indoor Mosquito Killer | 20W | Electronic Bug Zapper
If you want an effective insect zapper for indoors, then this seems to be quite a popular choice.
Features:
- Instantly kills flying insects such as mosquitoes and other pesky bugs.
- Ideal for indoor environments such as hospitals, kitchens, homes, and workplaces.
- Covers up to 6,000 square feet.
- Chemical-free pest control.
- Washable collection tray.
- Instantaneous operation, continuous and uninterrupted service.
What’s the Best Mosquito Killer? Mosquito Trap?
Keeping yourself protected is very important. Sometimes, we tend to forget that prevention is better than cure. Mosquitoes have also been a nuisance to mankind but today they are getting to be more and more dangerous. It’s time to take steps to protect yourself from their deadly bite.
With diseases like Malaria, Dengue and even Zika swarming in the vicinity, look for avenues that are both cheap and effective. Don’t worry about the cost too much either. Remember that the medical bills will seem humongous when compared to the paltry sum that you pay to be prophylactic.
Recommended Reading on Mosquitoes
If you want to learn more about Mosquitoes, I recommend reading: Mosquito : A Natural History of our Most Persistent and Deadly Foe
A fascinating read that illuminates the reader on a wide variety of topics. When you’re finished reading you’ll know how mosquitoes breed, how they die, their natural and man-made enemies and you’ll understand all of the diseases they spread across the globe.
Author Andrew Spielman discusses how mosquitoes have colored human history with interesting stories from our past. Packed with facts and anecdotes, this book will make you realize that understanding the nature of mosquitoes is an ongoing quest that will continue to gain importance with every passing year. If you love science or want to know more about mosquitoes then you’ll enjoy this book.
The World’s Deadliest Animals
The Mosquito kills more humans than any other creature on earth. Mosquito control is essential if you live in an area that is prone to breeding mosquitoes in high numbers.
We recommend using a variety of products to help control the mosquito population. In this article we’ve outlined what we feel are the best mosquito killers on the market. Now it’s up to you to decide how you want to combat this growing problem of mosquitoes. Hopefully, someday scientists find a way to eradicate mosquitoes from planet earth.
Additional Resources on Mosquitoes & Mosquito Control
- Common questions about mosquitoes (American Mosquito Control Association)
- Mosquito Control (EPA) | United States Environmental Protection Agency
- How to Keep Mosquitoes Away | Mother Earth News