From classic models, which we all know, to more complex products with a modern design, from a few tens to over a thousand euros: theelectro-insecticidesare the latest in the war on mosquitoes. These devices use a combination of light and chemical stimuli to attract mosquitoes near an electrified grid that electrifies them at the slightest contact, or a fan that sucks and imprisons them, leading them to die from dehydration in a short time. The strong point of these products emerges from this rather general description: they do not require insecticides to kill insects.
Perhaps for the sometimes high price, or for the unreliable advertising slogans, the fact is that many users place excessive expectations in electro-insecticides. On the other hand, we must not forget that there is NO magic product capable of eliminating the mosquito problem on its own and even electro-insecticides must be integrated into a strategy of struggle on various levels (larvicides, adulticides, etc.). In other words, if the number of mosquitoes is already reduced thanks to the preventive action, the correct use of electro-insecticides will have an impact on the mosquito population. On the contrary, if we place a device to eliminate mosquitoes and trust that it alone is enough to make us forget the problem, we are on the wrong path, regardless of the model and how much money we have invested in it.
The electro-insecticides for outdoors
Derived from models already in use for years in professional activities, such as restaurants, various "hobby" devices for catching mosquitoes in gardens have recently been introduced on the market.
Since they will be subjected to rain and humidity, outdoor electro-insecticides do not have electric grills, but suction fans, are equipped with transformers with low voltage direct current outputs and have excellent water resistance capabilities.
The more expensive models have to be connected to gas cylinders to produce carbon dioxide (CO2), one of the strongest stimuli that drives female mosquitoes to search for blood, for spawning. Furthermore, the capture effectiveness, in particular towards the Tiger Mosquito, can be significantly increased with the use of various types of chemical attractants that contain the main components of human sweat. It follows that these devices involve management costs that are often not negligible.
The outdoor electro-insecticides must be placed at a distance of at least 5 meters from homes and in the vicinity of stagnant waters and shady areas rich in vegetation, where mosquitoes - respectively - develop and seek refuge. If placed in large numbers and early in the season, they can lead to some preventative action by containing the insect population before it reaches unsustainable levels.
The areas of action (capture, cover, etc.)
On the packaging or in the manuals of most electro-insecticides phrases such as"Protects an area up to ..."or"Covers an area of ...": what exactly do they mean? These indications are to be interpreted asthe range of action of the appliance: in optimal conditions the mosquitoes found within this area are attracted by the device. Let's take an example: if an electro-insecticide declares 100 square meters, it means that it attracts mosquitoes on a hypothetical circular area of 100 square meters, at the center of which the device is located, i.e. from a maximum distance of about 6 meters.
It should be noted that all models are effective at rather short distances, also to avoid the risk of attracting swarms of mosquitoes from distant areas to our garden. Furthermore, it is unlikely that all mosquitoes in the area of action of the appliance are inexorably attracted and eliminated. These insects have systems for locating hosts to bite that have been perfected over millions of years of evolution and, being able to choose between man and machine, they are hardly wrong.
ELECTRO-INSECTICIDES FOR INTERIORS
Theexterminates insectswith blue neon and electrified grill that accompanies summer evenings in outdoor restaurants with sizzling pops is part of the memories of many of us. Over the years this type of equipment has benefited from continuous technical updates: the presence of various types of lights (LED, ultraviolet, infrared), heat emitters, or the addition of photocatalytic plates for the emission of small quantities of carbon dioxide (to attract mosquitoes) have improved the effectiveness of these products against mosquitoes.
Although they are designed for the interior of homes, these devices can also be used in outdoor environments protected from bad weather such as patios, terraces, gazebos, etc.
As for garden electro-insecticides, some indoor models are designed for the use of an attractant that increases their catches. Most models are equipped with electrified grid systems for the elimination of insects. It is therefore advisable to choose certified products that do not cause problems in the event of accidental contact with the grill. Alternatively, there are also traps for indoor aspiration without electrified grids parts and therefore no danger for children and pets.
Where to place the electro-insecticides
Electro-insecticides should be placed upwind of the house, near shady and humid areas but not under bushes or in the middle of shrubs or tall grass. If there is an area with standing water near the house (ditches, ponds, etc.), place the trap between this area and the house. Keep away from street lights, twilight lights and other light sources that are active at night. It is not recommended to use it in dusty places or on windy days.