These small critters seem to like flying in our faces, landing on our food, and generally ruining our regular outside relaxing time.
We’ve compiled some of the best bug zappers to keep your evenings pest-free, from mosquitoes to gnats and everything in between.
Table of Contents
Best bug zappers
Black+Decker Bug Zapper
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The most well-known brand on our list is Black+Decker’s Bug Zapper. It also routinely appears at the top of similar lists and for a good cause. Black+Decker’s Bug Zapper defends your yard and home from a range of pests.
It can either be placed on a table or the ground. It can also be hung from a tree. It may be placed anywhere you need it to start attracting and zapping mosquitos.
Like the other bug zappers on our list, the Black+Decker Bug Zapper uses ultraviolet light to replicate the appearance of a food source. Bugs flock to the light, expecting a simple feast, only to be hurt by the electric coils.
It’s a non-toxic and very effective method for eliminating mosquitos in an indoor or outdoor setting. If you want a good-value, robust, top-rated insect zapper from the most well-known company on this list, the Black+Decker Bug Zapper might be the best option.
Pros
- Big coverage
- Cleaning is a breeze.
- Works at all hours of the day and night
- Cons
- Large bugs may be unable to pass through small openings.
Cons
- Very small holes surrounding the light
- Not programmable
Flowtron BK-40D Electronic Insect Killer
[pr box=”B00004R9VW”]
The Flowtron Electronic Insect Killer, one of the more visually pleasing bug zappers on our list, is a high-voltage, efficient-performing bug zapper that costs only pennies a day to operate!
UV light has been proven to attract thousands of bugs per day, and it has even been lauded as one of the greatest insect zappers for mosquito attraction.
This device is available in 1-acre, 1-and-a-half-acre, and half-acre coverage options, so you can find the ideal zapper for your property.
You won’t have to worry about blockages, cleaning, or other difficulties because the killing grid is non-clogging. Instead, the dead insects will just fall to the ground and decompose naturally without intervention.
The Flowtron Insect Killer is weatherproof, not rusting, cracking, or fading.
Pros
- Attracts insects effectively.
- Built to withstand the elements
- The product comes in a variety of coverage options.
- Affordable
- No need to clean because it won’t clog.
Cons
- It won’t kill large bugs like Junebugs, but it might kill wasps.
Zap It Electric Bug Zapper Fly Swatter
[pr box=”B07N1CXKJN”]
The Zap It Electric Bug-Zapping Fly Swatter is a must-have for barbecues and other outdoor parties. It is the number one best-seller in bug zappers. This bug zapper has thousands of positive ratings and will not let you down.
Though it’s an unconventional approach, this swatter works just as effectively as any other hanging or otherwise-positioned bug zapper — and it’s also a lot of fun.
It’s entertaining and fulfilling to spend your evenings destroying mosquitoes and flies with a flick of the wrist, knowing that those little pests won’t be able to feast on your blood or your food.
The Zap It Zapper Fly Swatter, like traditional zappers, kills bugs on hit with a single electric shock, eliminating the need for several swats. It’s even powerful enough to kill wasps if they get too near for comfort.
The lack of a protective screen in front of the wires, which is found in traditional zappers, as well as the changeable AA batteries, contributes to its power. This bug zapper is safe for you and your family, even if it stings a little if you touch it.
Pros
- Even for those on a tighter bug-zapper budget, this is an economical alternative.
- On the first contact, it’s powerful enough to kill flies, mosquitoes, and even wasps.
- The swatter isn’t too big or heavy to hold in your hand.
- It includes a set of AA batteries that may be easily replaced.
- Though unprotected by an exterior screen, this zapper poses no hazard to you or your family other than a little volt if the wires are touched.
- During the summer, this might be a great strategy to keep pests at bay.
Cons
- The plastic bits of the handle may get a little loose after a long period of use.
Livin’ Well Bug Zapper
[pr box=”B07M9WJT8P”]
Moving on to a more classic bug zapper, the Livin’ Well Bug Zapper is a bug-killing instrument that is completely safe, non-toxic, non-radioactive, and non-chemical. It may be used both indoors and outdoors, and it can cover up to 500 square feet in 360 degrees for total pest control.
This zapper attracts bugs right into its wires using high-intensity UVA lights for a quick electric shock. An aesthetically pleasing cage surrounds the zapper, protecting dogs and children from accidentally shocking themselves.
It works well against mosquitoes, gnats, flies, and other flying pests and comes with a collection bowl for simple cleanup.
This is a high-quality device that works right out of the box, especially considering the inexpensive price point. Simply hang it as low as three feet off the ground and wait for the bugs to queue up to get electrocuted.
Pros
- It would look great in any outdoor setting.
- A cost-effective solution, especially given the high quality and aesthetic appeal.
- Protects up to 500 square feet of space from all sides.
- It’s suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, making it an excellent choice for cabins or camping.
- On impact, it instantly kills bugs of various sizes.
- UVA lights of high intensity are used to attract pests in the area.
- A collection tray is included for easy clean-up and no mess in your house or on your porch.
Cons
- Most bug zappers have noticeable cracking, but some users said the crack was so loud that they required time to get used to it.
ZALIK Bug Zapper Light Bulb
[pr box=”B07XH2Q7YH”]
The ZALIK Insect Zapper Light Bulb is one of the most inventive bug zappers on our list, and it’s a pest-infested home owner’s dream. As the name implies, this product is both a bug zapper and a practical light bulb, allowing you to light up the night while also warding off mosquitoes.
This bulb’s bug zapper feature creates a high-intensity UV light that attracts bugs into electrical wires and shocks them instantaneously. The bugs will slide off the bulb and onto the ground due to the wires’ 45-degree angle.
The bulb itself is a dimmable white light bulb with normal intensity. This bug zapper has three settings: zapper with light, zapper with dimmed light, and zapper without light.
The fact that this zapper bulb can be left exposed or placed in an open lantern or bulb cover is one of its best features. In either case, it works wonders at attracting pests.
Pros
- Effective bug zapper that can be used for both indoor and outdoor use.
- It can be utilized both inside and outside.
- For what the product is, it is a cost-effective solution.
- A UV light is used to entice bugs into the electrified wires.
- After electrocution, the wires are angled at 45 degrees, allowing most of the dead bugs to fall right off.
- The bulb produces normal-intensity white light.
- It serves three purposes: zapper with white light, zapper with a muted light, or zapper without a light
- Instantly kills bugs
- Chemical-free and non-toxic
Cons
- Though the dead bugs will fall off the bulb in most cases, some bugs may become lodged and require hand removal with a small brush or compressed air can.
Max try 4-Pack Plug-In Bug Zapper.
[pr box=”B07Y82V65M”]
The Maxtry Bug Zapper is a set of four wall plug-ins that may be used anywhere an outlet is available. These zappers, despite their diminutive size, use UV lamps to draw gnats, mosquitoes, and other flying pests to a fiery end.
You should notice a big reduction in the number of bugs flying around your potted plants, in your kitchen, or around your outdoor seating area within a few hours.
Naturally, due to their size, they are best used at night when the light is more noticeable.
There is no chemical odor, there is no risk of human shock, and the zappers are simple to clean. Overall, if you’re looking for a pack of zappers that can be used nearly anyplace in or out of the home at a reasonable price, this is a terrific option.
Pros
- Cheap
- Individual bug zappers come in a batch of four.
- Gnats, moths, and mosquitoes are all killed by this product.
- Cleaning is a breeze.
- Protective cover to prevent human shock
- When insects are stunned, there is no chemical odor.
Cons
- The zappers are little and will not kill as many bugs as larger bug zappers.
- These may not be very useful during the day due to their size. UV light is most effective at night.
Anysun Solar Powered Bug Zapper
[pr box=”B08YZ1JVJY”]
The Anysun Solar Powered Bug Zapper attracts gnats, flies, no-see-ums, and mosquitoes with purple light before exterminating them in its electric grid. It takes around three hours to fully charge this waterproof lantern-style bug killer, and it lasts roughly nine hours.
While it charges in the sun, it can be used both inside and outside. It’s remarkably lightweight and portable, weighing just over 1 pound.
Pros
- Portable
- Various modes
- Design that saves energy
Cons
- The zapping sound can be rather loud.
Aspectek Bug Zapper
[pr box=”B01LWLFB5U”]
This is the bug zapper to have if you need a powerful indoor bug zapper. This is recommended for areas with a lot of light, such as workshops, garages, or sheds, that attract a lot of insects at night.
It attracts gnats, moths, mosquitoes, and wasps and features a protective grate in front of the lights to prevent inadvertent electric shocks to children or pets.
This bug zapper is easy to set up, either by hanging it from a chain using the built-in hooks on the sides or by just sitting it on the ground.
While you’ll have to remove the dead bugs from the insect zappers, the bottom tray makes cleanup a breeze. Simply slip it out, pour out the dead bugs, and replace it—it’s that simple!
Pros
- Extremely effective in regions where a lot of bugs need to be controlled.
- It’s great for killing huge flies, mosquitoes, and other large pests, but it also works on small bugs.
- Non-toxic materials were used to create this product.
Cons
- Large, not subtle, or visually appealing
- Has a protective grate around it to keep humans or pets from unintentionally being zapped
- Makes a loud zapping sound that may take some time to get used to
Buyer’s guide
Bug zappers have been around for much longer than you might believe. An early prototype included an electric light and a bait chunk enclosed in an electrified cage. When insects were drawn to the light and bait, they were electrocuted when they came into contact with the cage.
Many of today’s top bug zappers function on the same basic principle. They use ultraviolet (UV) light, which insects can’t stand. When the bugs try to get to the light, they come into contact with an electrified wire grid, which kills them instantly.
Dead bugs are then collected in a removable collection tray that may be emptied as needed, usually every 2 to 7 days, depending on the prevalence of pests. When choosing the best insect zapper for your indoor or outdoor location, keep the following factors in mind.
Source of energy
Bug zappers are powered by a variety of sources, the majority of which are electric plug-in types. If you want to use an electric bug zapper outside, you’ll need an exterior outlet. You can also use an extension cord, but make sure it’s designated for outside use.
Bug zappers powered by batteries are lightweight and portable, making them ideal for camping vacations, tailgate parties, and other outdoor activities. They can be hung from a tree or placed on a table.
Another battery-operated option is racquet-style zappers, which work like electrified fly swatters and shock the bugs you swing at.
The newest and most adaptable outdoor bug zappers are powered by the sun. Simply place them in the sun during the day to recharge their internal batteries, then turn them on after dusk to begin zapping pests at home or on the go.
Indoor vs. outdoor
Outdoor zappers are built to survive the elements better than indoor zappers, even though they perform identical jobs. They’re also often larger, with larger collection trays.
Electric insect zappers that hang from the ceiling are a popular and appealing addition to any patio or dining area.
Indoor bug zappers can include white UV lights instead of the intense purple that can be disturbing in outside devices.
Because they are the easiest to install indoors, the finest indoor insect zapper items are wall fixtures and countertop units. Some bug zappers are effective both indoors and outdoors, so read the label before purchasing.
Shock value
In plug-in and lantern bug zappers, the electrified grid is carefully encased behind a plastic cage to prevent fingers from accidentally touching the grid and suffering a shock. It’s a different story with racquet-style zappers, sometimes known as “electric fly swatters.”
To electrify the grid, press a button on the tennis racket-style handle, then swing the racquet head towards flies or other insects. Bugs are zapped if they come into contact with you.
But be careful: anyone who touches the grid while the button is pressed, human or insect, will be shocked. Look for a handheld zapper with a protective coating to avoid unintentional zaps.
Pets should be kept out of swatting range, and children should be reminded that electric fly swatters are not toys.
Bait
Although light attracts many flying insects, a University of Delaware study discovered that bug zappers kill more non-biting insects like flying beetles and moths than biters like mosquitoes and biting flies.
If you want to make a bug zapper more successful, use bait that contains octanol, a chemical present in human breath and sweat that mosquitoes find appealing. Octenol is packaged in little lures that stick to the inside of the collection tray of the zapper.
Mosquitoes can be attracted to bait for up to three months. Alternatively, get a handheld zapper and go on a mosquito hunt. Because a racket-style zapper allows you to target, it’s also an ideal choice for the finest mosquito zapper indoors.
Coverage
When looking for an outdoor bug zapper, you’ll see a coverage area specified, which is usually measured in acres. While there are no industry standards, a bigger coverage area usually means brighter UV lights in the zappers, allowing bugs to notice them from further away.
Bug zappers are classified as “pesticide devices” by the US Environmental Protection Agency. While the EPA warns manufacturers against making deceptive claims regarding their products, the insect zapper industry is unregulated, so exaggerated claims are possible.
Who can benefit from insect zappers?
Bug zappers can be used by anyone to protect themselves from insects. When having a drink on their porch, at their pool, or while camping, some folks employ these devices to enjoy the outdoors.
Bug zappers are capable of killing a wide range of insects. However, the following are the kind of persons who benefit the most from zappers:
- Hikers and fans of the great outdoors
- Others who want to spend more time outside, such as families and people who want to spend more time outside
- Those who live in places where bugs are a major issue
- Those who live near bodies of water
- People are concerned about contracting infections from insects
- Anyone who does not wish to use insecticides based on chemicals
Traditional bug-killing methods are now more affordable and simpler, thanks to modern technologies. Invest in a zapper with high-quality fans, UV lights, and other functions.
Don’t spend too much money on a device with features you don’t require. For about $40, you can protect yourself from pests for as long as you wish.
Safety
When it comes to insect zappers, there isn’t much to worry about in terms of safety because they’re relatively safe gadgets. However, there are a few things to remember in order to protect yourself, your children, and your pets:
- Before touching or moving the zapper, be sure it is unplugged or turned off.
- Keep children away from the zapper. Even though bug zappers feature a protective grate, tiny children have the possibility to stick their fingers inside.
- Keep a watch out for curious pets that might try to lick the grate or gnaw on the power wire.
- Although most outdoor bug zappers are weather-resistant, they should not be exposed to a lot of water. To avoid direct exposure to the elements, keep your bug zapper beneath some form of cover.
FAQs
What is a bug zapper?
A bug zapper is a device that uses electricity to zap mosquitos, flies, gnats, and other small flying animals.Some people use the term zapper to refer to any insect-killing device, including bug zappers, which are fan-based.
How do insect zappers function, and what do they do?
Most bug zappers have both a light and an electric coil. Mosquitoes are drawn to the device by the light, which is then killed by the electric coils.
Mosquitoes are naturally drawn to UV light because it appears to be a source of food. Mosquitos have already come into contact with the electric coils and have been shocked when they realize the light isn’t a source of food.
Do insect zappers function throughout the day?
During the day, an active insect zapper will continue to kill bugs that come into touch with it. In daylight, though, their seductive rays will not be as effective.
Are bug zappers effective against wasps and flies?
Wasps and flies alike will be attracted to and killed by large insect zappers. If you want to target wasps particularly, keep the bug zapper close to the hive.
Is it true that bug zappers are dangerous?
No, not necessarily. You should be alright as long as you use common sense when using electric bug zappers and don’t stick your fingers in the grates.
Do bug zappers consume a lot of power?
No, bug zappers do not consume a lot of power. Choose a battery-powered or solar-powered zapper if electricity consumption is a concern.
Is it better to use bug zappers that are powered by electricity or those that are fueled by the sun?
It is entirely dependent on your personal preferences. However, we advocate electric vehicles because they have a longer life lifetime, you won’t have to worry about the charge being affected by weather, and they’re usually more powerful.
They’re also reasonably priced, costing only a few pence per day.
Is it true that bug zappers are waterproof?
It’s a yes-and-no situation. Weatherproofing is required for insect zappers so that they are unaffected by rain, snow, winds, sunlight, and other elements.
However, you shouldn’t submerge your bug zapper in the water anytime soon, especially if it’s electric.
Is it safe to use bug zappers indoors?
Sure, they’re safe. Is it completely devoid of flaws? No. If you don’t want dead bugs all over your new carpet, you might not want to utilize them in your home.
Bug zappers should only be used within large facilities that are constantly open to the outdoors, such as garages, worksheds, and garden sheds.
They won’t be welcome in your kitchen or dining area, or anywhere else where people eat.
Bug zappers, according to Kansas State University researchers, blast bugs and, as a result, get their guts and bacteria into your food. While you’re at it, keep your zapper away from the grill.
How noisy are insect zappers?
The louder the bug zapper, the bigger the bug zapper. Some insect zappers include fans, which makes them considerably louder; however, those without fans will just create a shocking zapping sound when bugs enter it… which will most likely be frequent.
Do bug zapper bulbs come with replacements?
Replacement bulbs should be available depending on the model of insect zapper you purchase.
How do you clean an insect zapper properly?
Some bug zappers are self-cleaning, which means bugs fall out the bottom. A brush is included with certain bug zappers to clear the coils of dead bugs after they’ve been used. Other zappers come with specific pest-removal canisters, making cleaning up after each use a cinch.
What makes you believe that a bug zapper is superior to insect spray or repellent?
Insect repellents keep bugs away from your home, which may aid in the resolution of your pest problem. Sprays frequently contain chemicals or pesticides. Both of these approaches may be successful in resolving your bug problem.
On the other hand, many people prefer not to use chemicals in their houses. Bug zappers aren’t only bug repellents; they’re also bug killers. Bug zappers are sometimes used in conjunction with bug sprays or repellents.
What is the coverage area of an insect zapper?
A good insect zapper, such as the options at the top of our list, will cover a half-acre of land.
Other bug zappers have a range of up to 1,500 square feet of coverage. Bug zappers are available for smaller spaces such as bedrooms, patios, and flats.
At this time, what is the best insect zapper on the market?
The bug zappers at the top of our list are among the best on the market today, and they qualify as the greatest insect zappers.
Thousands of positive reviews back up products like the Black+Decker Bug Zapper, indicating that they eliminate pests and mosquitos as advertised.
What attracts mosquitoes to light sources?
Mosquitoes associate food with UV lights and other light sources. Mosquitos have evolved to associate UV light with the food that people produce.
This method is used by insect zappers to attract and kill unwanted bugs. Some insect zappers come with added functions, such as an octanol attractant cartridge, to increase the effectiveness of mosquito enticing.
Will a bug zapper affect my pets?
Bug zappers are designed to be used around children and animals in a safe manner. Insecticides, sprays, and other solutions are often preferred over bug zappers.
The sounds and scents of an insect zapper are largely ignored by cats, dots, and birds. This shock, on the other hand, is unlikely to harm a healthy person.
To prevent you from accidentally contacting the power grid, most bug zappers incorporate safety cages or dual-layer designs.
What can I do to attract more mosquitos to my insect zapper?
Some people use octanol in their insect zapper to attract mosquitos. Octenol’s activity is similar to that of human perspiration. Mosquitos land on damp pads before moving on to the electric coils.
By filling an insect zapper with octanol-soaked pads, you can considerably boost its efficiency.
Is it harmful to use a 2,000V or 5,000V bug zapper?
Some high-end insect zappers employ 2,000V or 5,000V electric grids to zap bugs. This may appear to be a frightening situation. On the other hand, bug zapper grids have a high voltage and low current.
You’ll get an electric jolt if you touch the grid, similar to what you’d get from a car battery.
What can I do to attract more flies to my bug zapper?
If you have a flies problem at home, use food, honey, sugar, or other items to bait your bug zapper. Some people put cat food or mincemeat on the cage to attract flies.
Flies are attracted to rotting, stinking meals. The more meals you can place on or near the bug zapper, the more flies it will catch.
Conclusion
A bug zapper is a way to go if you have a problem with bothersome flying pests. The Flowtron BK-40D Electronic Insect Killer is our favorite of all the wonderful options on our list.
Because it’s created with a non-clogging killing grid, it’s visually beautiful, high-quality, and low-maintenance. But then again, it depends on your preference! Something out there should be perfect for you and your needs.
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