Here’s a complete buying guide to help you get the most appropriate bug zapper for your space.
How Do Bug Zappers Work?
Bug zappers operate in two ways. They either have a system that uses purple, blue, or ultraviolet light to attract flying insects and bugs towards it, zapping them when close or a system that eliminates bugs with a fan or wind-based mechanism.
The first kind of zapper basically tricks bugs into assuming that the light is their source of food. Insects associate the ultraviolet light from the zapper with warm-blooded creatures. Bugs then try to fly toward the bright light and into the zapper, thinking they’re in for an easy meal, and they hit the electrical coils of the system.
Most bug zappers come with a tray that collects these insects once they get buzzed and fall. Others might feature a fan that sucks away the dead insects. The effectiveness of these zappers can also be improved by adding something like octanol, a substance that smells like human sweat and is a highly effective mosquito attractant.
Bug zappers that use wind or fans to kill bugs have suction-generating fans. These fans work to draw the insects around it into the container. The bugs stay trapped in the container as there’s no chance of escaping through the powerful sucking wind. They die and dry out there. Such systems are quite low maintenance, but they make some noise.
If you are not happy with the performance of your bug zapper, you can modify your bug zapper. For tips on transforming your bug zapper into an ultimate bug-killing machine, check the video below.
Types of Bug Zappers
A few kinds of bug zappers include:
Electric zappers
Electric zappers kill flying and biting insects by electrocuting them as the bug comes in contact with the unit’s grid. They attract insects with UV lights and include a tray at the bottom that catches the dead and fallen bugs. Zappers are great for those who want to attract bugs without the use of chemicals, but that doesn’t mean they are completely without risk though. According to Ali Adnan, senior editor and gardener with The Plant Bible, “Bug zappers use high-voltage electricity, which can be dangerous if mishandled. They should always be installed and used according to the manufacturer’s instructions to minimize the risk of electric shock.”
Insect traps
Bug traps also lure insects in with light. They feature a vacuum that sucks the incoming bugs toward a chamber where they get trapped. This chamber includes a dehydrating agent that kills and dries out the bugs.
Electric swatters
Electric swatters are designed just like a tennis racket. These racket bug swatters run on batteries. The design features a mesh surface with an electric grid. You swing the racket and electrocute bugs and biting insects with every wave.
Things To Consider When Buying a Bug Zapper
Here are a few factors to look for in a bag zipper:
Indoor or outdoor
Some electric bug zappers are only suitable for one specific environment or the other. However, most manufacturers make zappers that can be used both indoors as well as outdoors. Make sure that you carefully check the product before buying so you know that it works in your space. The main difference between the two is that indoor-only models aren’t as powerful as outdoor while outdoor bug zappers usually don’t have a tray that collects dead insects.
Target insects
Make sure that the bug zapper you get is effective for all kinds of pests. Some models are not that great for eradicating mosquitos and similar biting insects. If you’re getting a bug zapper mainly for mosquitos, look for models that have octanol packets fitted in addition to UV lights to attract the insects better.
Coverage
Coverage area is another important consideration. As a general rule, the more powerful the UV light wattage is, the better, stronger, and wider will the insect control range of the bug zapper be. If you’re purchasing the zapper for a small space, like a tiny backyard, don’t hesitate to buy a zapper with a small range. Large coverage range bug zappers can easily attract bugs from neighboring places and houses in smaller spaces before it works.
Ease of cleaning
Look for a zapper that comes with a cleanable tray and cleaning brushes. The brush makes cleaning the coil and trays a lot more convenient. Washable trays are also a huge advantage.
Safety
Electrical bug zappers need to have a good safety system to make the device suitable for daily use, especially for indoor use. Most zappers come with really smart safety features, making it impossible to accidentally get zapped by them.
To check the safety, you can look for models with double-layer grids and safety mesh. Or you can get a zapper that features shut-off systems as well.
Who Should Get a Bug Zapper?
Anyone can benefit from a bug zapper in their houses or open spaces. They use very minimal electricity and are quite convenient, and don’t require any complicated installation. The majority of the people who can take advantage of bug zappers include:
- Campers, hikers, and other outdoorsy people
- People who live near a creek, lake, or swamp
- People like to spend time out in the open air in their backyards and patios without the threat of mosquitos or bug bites
- Individuals with certain insect allergies specific in the area
- Those who do not like to use solutions or chemicals to prevent bugs around them
- People who fear they can get diseases from bugs
Conclusion
Bugs and small pests are a huge nuisance in both indoor and outdoor spaces. Bug zappers are an easy and effective way of eliminating these unwanted beings. Most options are free of toxic chemicals and consume very minimal electricity to charge up. Determine whether you need an indoor, outdoor, electric, or fan bug remover and enjoy a bug-free space.
