Whether you prefer your outdoor entertainment on sunny spring days or warm summer nights, almost everyone can agree on one thing: when attacked by an invasion of stinging, chewing insects, they really do bite (no pun intended). Few things ruin a lazy evening on the deck faster than the constant pounding of pests that your family and guests consider an all-you-can-eat buffet.
But bugs aren’t just annoying. They can also be harmful to health. Mosquitoes carry diseases like the West Nile virus. Many people are also allergic to bites, from irritating rashes to serious medical emergencies.
Bug zappers can be an effective defense in preventing insects from taking over your space. Here we’ve rounded up a few things to consider when looking for your own, followed by our reviews of the best.
Tips for Finding the Right Bug Zapper
Beetle zappers emit an ultraviolet light that attracts small flying insects – and then kills them with a fatal shock if they get too close. Some people find the sight or sound of insects annoying, annoying or even stressful. You may want to set up your bug zapper in a strategic location near your collection area to protect your space, but at a distance away from noise and sights. Remember, it’s about creating a peaceful, relaxing, and most importantly, no-hassle haven. (Read the product descriptions carefully as some devices are only intended for specific areas or conditions.) You may also need an extension cord, even for patio or deck settings, as some products have short cords.
Fight pests on multiple fronts for maximum insect protection. In addition to an insect zapper, use an insect repellant or an insect repellent and citronella candle near the location. Ideally, you can also create an enclosed space that is protected by nets or other material.
As we rated
To select and evaluate the best options, I relied on my experience with a wide variety of zappers as a contractor and homeowner, as well as researching newer models and technologies. My husband and I owned a construction business in rural Pennsylvania for more than a decade, and our construction sites were often near streams or ponds that were used as breeding grounds for mosquitos. We used zappers designed for larger insects and made of stronger materials that could withstand the elements, and we quickly learned which ones were appropriate for the task and which features were most important. I also consulted Popular Mechanics’ previous reviews on this category.
When evaluating these zappers, we took into account the required supply area, the power source and the simple emptying (also known as the measuring factor) and considered particularly energy-efficient options, e.g. B. solar models. operated or used energy-saving LED lights.
Largest coverage
Coverage area: up to 1.5 hectares | Energy source: Socket | Easy cleaning: Relatively easy to clean with minimal dirt Energy efficient functions: LED light and sensor for twilight until dawn, which can only switch the device on during the prime time of insects
When it comes to insect control, Black Flag is one of the most recognizable names. The manufacturer recommends placing this device at least 20 feet from where you will be gathering. However, with a claimed coverage area of up to 1.5 acres, this will not affect performance. It’s relatively quiet and the soft purple light creates a cool ambience at night. In addition to the LED light, it has a clip-on bait that contains octenol, a chemical that attracts insects. You need to replace the bait cartridges about once a month.
The most quiet
Coverage area: 323 square feet | Energy source: Socket | Simple cleanup: Easy; comes with a small brush to clean the insect collecting bowl Energy efficient functions: LED light
The manufacturer boasts that this device is “noiseless” and many reviewers confirm this claim and find that they could not hear it at all. It’s lightweight, but weatherproof and durable, so you can place it anywhere in your yard where insects are a problem. It comes with a hanging ring, but the base is flat so you can sit it on any smooth surface too. (Because it’s so light, it’s best to avoid placing it where strong winds could knock it over).
Budget selection
Coverage area: Indefinite; Best for a small / closed area due to its minimal size Energy source: USB charger | Simple cleanup: Easy; comes with cleaning brush | Energy efficient functions: LED light
This affordable option is even more impressive when you consider that it does double duty as both a bug zapper and a decorative accent light. You can use either or both functions and the USB rechargeable battery lasts up to seven hours. The accent light gives off a cool purple glow. This zapper uses an octenol bait in addition to the UV LED light for double the insect attraction (bait cartridges last up to 30 days). This compact (2.5 x 4 inch) portable unit can be used anywhere, indoors or outdoors – ideal for RVs, offices or campsites.
For covered terraces and verandas
Coverage area: 400 square feet | Energy source: Socket | Simple cleanup: Easy to empty collection box | Energy efficient functions: UVA lamp only consumes 6W of power
This zapper is not designed to be exposed to rain, so it is likely a better option for an indoor space or a securely sheltered place under an awning or canopy. Many people who bought it have been impressed with the strong results, especially given the modest price. While not the quietest, it only uses the UVA light to attract insects. Hence, it is a great choice for people who want to avoid chemical baits.
Stylistic look
Coverage area: ½ morning | Energy source: Socket | Simple cleanup: Easy; simply turn off the collecting basket and empty it | Energy efficient functions: UV light
This zapper is one of the most expensive models I’ve looked at. It offers a stylish look and a durable, high-quality construction. And because it’s not technically a zapper, it’s almost completely silent, so it’s okay to stand near seating. Instead of electric shocks, insects are wiped out using a three-pronged approach: the warm UV light is combined with a carbon dioxide bait created by the specially coated surface to attract insects, and the built-in fan ensures that all insects venture close The device is drawn in and pinched.
Ideal for indoors
Coverage area: 6,000 square feet | Energy source: Socket | Simple cleanup: Easy; Simply empty the collecting compartment (cleaning brush included) Energy efficient functions: UV light
This device is intended for use indoors or outdoors. You get the durable, high quality construction you expect from Black & Decker and reliable performance. If you are going to use it indoors I would recommend not placing it near a window at night or you might spot a large number of insects swarming around outside the glass or screen trying to figure out how to get to the light reach.
Handheld option
Coverage area: Limited to arm length Energy source: USB charger | Simple cleanup: Moderate; This can be a bit of a mess Energy efficient functions: LED light
If you’re satisfied with destroying your insect enemies in person, you might like this option. But it should go without saying that you must consent to insects invading your personal space before eliminating them. As with a high-tech version of a fly swatter, this will take some effort, but will allow you to track and safely ship unwanted pests such as moths or stinging insects around the house.
Dual duty zapper and landscape light
Coverage area: N / A | Energy source: Solar charge, but can also use AA batteries | Simple cleanup: Moderate; Open the top and deflate to empty it Energy efficient functions: Solar powered LEDs
These lights may not match some of the more powerful, high output options, but they will add a decorative touch to your garden and provide reasonable insect control benefits. With no wiring, they’re easy to set up – just plug them into the ground and let them absorb energy from the sun (backup AA batteries provide power on cloudy days). A light sensor switches them on automatically at dusk. With a switch you can toggle between two options: the soft purple insect killing light or a white light that only illuminates the room when insects are not active.
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