Perhaps because of the sometimes high price, or because of the unreliable advertising slogans, the fact is that many users place excessive expectations in electro-insecticides. However, we must not forget that there is no magic product capable of eliminating the mosquito problem by itself and even electro-insecticides must be integrated into a multi-level control strategy (larvicides, adulticides, etc.).

In other words, if the number of mosquitoes is already reduced thanks to 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 will be enough to make us forget about the problem, we are on the wrong track, regardless of the model and how much money we have invested in it.

Derived from models that have already been in use for years in professional activities, such as restaurants, several “hobbyist” devices for capturing mosquitoes in gardens have recently been introduced onto the market.

Because they will be exposed to rain and humidity, outdoor electric insect killers 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 must be connected to gas cylinders for the production of carbon dioxide (CO2), one of the strongest stimuli that drives female mosquitoes to search for blood, for laying eggs. Furthermore, the capture efficiency, especially against the Tiger Mosquito, can be significantly increased with the use of chemical attractants of various types that contain the main components of human sweat. It follows that these devices involve management costs that are often not negligible.

Outdoor electro-insecticides must be placed at least 5 meters away from homes and near stagnant water and shaded areas rich in vegetation, where mosquitoes – respectively – develop and seek refuge. If placed in large numbers and at the beginning of the season, they can lead to a certain preventive action by containing the insect population before it reaches unsustainable levels.

The insect exterminator with 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 device has benefited from continuous technical updates: the presence of various types of lights (LED, ultraviolet, infrared), heat emitters, or even 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 designed for indoor use, these devices can also be used in outdoor environments protected from the elements such as patios, terraces, gazebos, etc.

As with garden electric insecticides, some indoor models are designed to use an attractant that increases capture. Most models are equipped with electrified grid systems for eliminating insects. It is therefore advisable to choose certified products that do not cause problems in the event of accidental contact with the grid. Alternatively, there are also indoor suction traps on the market that do not have electrified grid parts and therefore pose a danger to children and pets.