Bug Zappers & Mosquitoes

Posted by Mosquito Squad
Bug Zappers & Mosquitoes

December 20, 2023

Most of us, especially in Florida, are familiar with bug zappers and often use them. But do they really “zap” mosquitoes and are they effective?

The simple answer is NO. These zappers are not effective in eradicating and controlling mosquitoes and other biting insects.

In fact, they can be costly, but more importantly, they can have unintended, adverse consequences. To learn more, keep reading.

Facts

  • Majority of bug zappers consist of a light source that is designed to attract insects that are attracted to light.
  • Mosquitoes and most other biting insects are not attracted to light and therefore such zappers are not an ideal solution to eradicate and control the population. Rather, mosquitoes and biting insects are attracted to carbon dioxide (“CO2”), sweat and breath – which means – they are attracted to YOU.
  • Bug zappers mostly attract harmless and beneficial insects, such as lacewings, ladybugs and pollinators. Eradicating these beneficial insects can have an adverse impact on our local ecosystems, especially in Florida.
  • CO2 zappers are expensive and can cost upwards of $700 to purchase and they need to be maintained which is an ongoing expense.
  • Bug zappers may even pose health risks to people and pets. Research shows that these zappers can contaminate the air as insect particles may spread up to 7 feet from the unit. This means that any viruses or bacteria that were carried by the zapped insect can be inhaled or contaminate food.

Now What Can You Do?

Now that you understand that bug zappers are not an effective tool to eradicate and control mosquitoes and other biting insects, and that they may even do more harm than good, you need to seek advice from a professional such as Mosquito Squad of Tampa Bay.

Mosquito Squad of Tampa Bay will treat your property and perform “Barrier Spray” treatments to instantly kill the mosquito and biting insect population. Their solutions have a residual that will continuously release the insecticide for up to three weeks. Mosquito Squad will also treat standing water to further control and reduce new hatchings.

Mosquito Squad also offers an “All-Natural” solution that is non-toxic, non-synthetic and pet and child friendly.

For maximum protection, check out our Automatic Misting Systems, the ultimate solution to eradicate not only mosquitoes, but no-see-ums, fleas, spiders and many other biting insects on a daily basis.

It’s time to take down those ineffective zappers and contact Mosquito Squad of Tampa Bay at (813) 502-0505 or tampabay@mosquitosquad.com – Your professional mosquito, biting insect and rodent control service provider to help you FIGHT THE BITE.