Nothing can ruin a barbecue, picnic or pool party faster than a bunch of flying pests such as mosquitoes, flies, gnats and wasps. They make it difficult to enjoy your deck, patio or other outdoor space to the fullest. A bug zapper can keep insects at bay so you and your family can enjoy your yard in peace.
Finding the right zapper can be tough, especially if you don’t know what to look for. Check out these tips for choosing the right bug zapper for your yard and the best models to keep mosquitoes and other pests away.
Type
Bug zappers come in several types, each of which operates in different ways.
Insect traps draw bugs to them via light and then suck them into a chamber with a vacuum. The bugs die inside the trap due to dehydration, so you have to regularly empty the chamber.
Electronic zappers also draw insects to them with light, but the bugs die when they land on the zapper’s electrified grid. These zappers have a tray that collects the debris from the insects, so they also require emptying.
Electric swatters resemble a tennis racket and use batteries to power their electric grid. You use the device to swat at insects and electrocute them when they touch the grid. They’re an excellent portable option for camping and other trips.
Indoor/outdoor use
Most people want a bug zapper for their outdoor living space, so most models are suitable for outdoor use. However, if you have a bug problem inside your home, you may also need a zapper. Read the product specifications carefully to determine if you can use the model you’re considering in the area of your home where you need it.
Design
A bug zapper’s design determines how it attracts insects to the device to kill them. Many zappers use light to lure in bugs, but this works best for insects like moths, mayflies and beetles. Other zappers feature chemical attractants that are effective for biting pests, including mosquitoes.
Range
For a bug zapper to be effective, it must have a large enough range to cover the area you plan to use it. Even so, bigger isn’t better for a zapper’s range. For example, models with ranges larger than your outdoor space can attract bugs from neighboring areas instead of only your yard.
Most bug zappers measure their range in square feet or acres. Measure your deck, patio or yard to determine the coverage you need.
Top bug zappers that cost under $25
Black Flag Extendable Handheld Insect Zapper
This portable handheld bug zapper offers 3,000 volts of power to keep your yard and home insect-free. It works on all types of bugs, including flies, mosquitoes and spiders, and only requires two AA batteries for operation. Its handle can extend for a reach of up to 2.5 feet.
ZAP IT! Rechargeable Bug Zapper Racket
This 4,000-watt electric zapper racket makes it easy to get rid of pests on the go. It features a rechargeable battery you can charge via a USB cord and offers up to 10,000 zaps on a single charge. It has a blue light to attract insects.
Top bug zappers that cost $25 to $45
This bug zapper is suitable for indoor and outdoor use and can cover up to 1,500 square feet. It has a long-lasting UVA light to attract bugs and an easy-to-clean trap that holds the dead insects. It doesn’t make much noise when in use.
Westinghouse Solar Lighting Solar Powered LED Outdoor Bug Zapper Lantern
This chemical-free, solar-powered zapper features an attractive lantern design with a built-in LED light. It comes with a shepherd hook for hanging, but you can also set it on any flat surface. Its UV light attracts insects like mosquitoes and flies. It weighs just over a pound, making it easy to move.
Top bug zappers that cost $45 to $75
This versatile bug zapper hangs from an included ring and chain or rests on a stable surface. It has a UV light to attract insects without chemicals and works well for mosquitoes, flies, gnats, wasps and more. It comes with a brush for easy cleaning.
Top bug zappers that cost $75 and up
Flowtron BK-80D 80-Watt Electronic Insect Killer
This high-efficiency bug zapper has a non-clogging grid powered by a high-voltage transformer. It uses ultraviolet light and chemical attractants to dispose of more bugs. It’s backed by a two-year limited warranty.
DynaTrap DT1050-AZSR Flying Insect Trap
This powerful insect trap attracts bugs such as mosquitoes, biting flies, moths and others. It covers up to a half-acre and features all-weather construction to stand up to the elements. You can also use it indoors, and the discreet design means it blends with your decor.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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