Operating principle and effectiveness of insect fumigators

Mosquitoes create a lot of discomfort from the beginning of spring until late autumn, the first frost. In addition to the actual discomfort, blood-sucking insects pose a danger to human health. They can carry dangerous infectious diseases. Or, at least, provoke allergic reactions.

To deal with the mosquito threat, there are several ways:
Rating: 10 best mosquito repellents
Rating: 10 best mosquito repellents

Even the best spray against mosquitoes and ticks in nature does not always protect against other blood-sucking insects...

netkomaram.ru

Open ›

1. The most obvious is the barrier one. For this purpose, nets, window grilles and ventilation holes are used. However, no one can guarantee that a few insects will not enter the premises.
2. To increase the effectiveness of preventive measures, mosquito control agents are used in the apartment. For example, the same insecticidal aerosols. Which are capable of resolving the issue. But they have a targeted effect and do not provide a guaranteed effect over a large area.

The most universal means of combating uninvited guests is household fumigators with mosquito repellent liquid or special plates. These devices are relatively cheap, reliable and easy to use. Let's take a closer look at what they are.

The principle of operation of fumigators

Fumigators are a popular means of repelling insects. Depending on the type, they can not only repel, but also destroy mosquitoes, midges and flies. The general principle of operation of such devices is based on the distribution of chemicals in the air that are harmful to insects, but at the same time safe for humans and pets. Toxic fumes usually affect the nervous system of harmful fauna, but depending on the composition and types of active substances, a different principle of action can be used.

Fumigators of different types use the same effect that repels or destroys insects

Table: Toxins used in insecticide formulations

The author of the article noted that the lion's share of fumigators use the pyrethroid group of insecticides, apparently due to the greater effectiveness of the latter. Manufacturers, however, are trying to reduce the percentage of dangerous toxins in pyrethroids to such an extent as to achieve, on the one hand, maximum effectiveness in the fight against mosquitoes, flies and midges, and on the other hand, safety for people and pets. True, the harmful effects of chemicals are still present to one degree or another even in the most “advanced” formulations.

Advantages

Among the main advantages of fumigators, the following can be noted:

• exclude contact with the body of harmful substances (unlike ointments, creams and sprays);
• have the possibility of collective defense;
• high-quality devices do not cause irritation to the skin and mucous membranes, and do not have obvious negative consequences for health;
• mobile devices can be used anywhere, including in the field;
• high efficiency achieved by active evaporation of substances toxic to insects;
• low cost (but very budget models may have certain disadvantages);
• availability of a wide range of consumables, i.e. liquids and plates;
• absence of odors and other unpleasant sensations, with the exception of flavored cartridges and smoldering coils, which are not recommended for use indoors.

Some models do not emit odor or cause other unpleasant sensations

Flaws

Among the disadvantages of fumigators are:

• low service life, especially for products of dubious origin;
• strong heating of the plastic case and even its melting, which can lead to a fire;
• for autonomous models - the need to constantly recharge (change) batteries;
• plastic smell from low-quality devices;
• strong odor and irritating effect of flavored cartridges;
• the need for periodic ventilation of the room with a working fumigator;
• inadmissibility of use indoors with pregnant and lactating women and small children (except for special models and consumables);
• possible health problems, including allergic reactions, irritation of the throat and mucous membranes, headache, fever.

According to the author, in order to avoid the above or any other problems in the future, when choosing a fumigator, you should pay attention to the quality of the device body, look at the quality certificate, pay attention to the concentration of toxins in the plate or liquid (this parameter should not exceed fifteen percent), if necessary, you can purchase a universal device or, for example, a device with a timer.

general description

Raptor mosquito repellents have been produced in the Russian Federation for many years. Today such goods can be found in the markets of many foreign countries. It is “Raptor” that is preferred by most consumers. Such a great demand is primarily due, of course, to the advantages of this substance over its analogues.

The drug "Raptor" is characterized by the following factors.

• Maximum level of efficiency. Absolutely all of its types that are on the market today very quickly destroy annoying mosquitoes.
• Long shelf life - about 2 years.
• Safe composition. It is completely safe for humans. The preparation contains substances that have a negative effect exclusively on insects.
• Simplicity and ease of use.
• Reasonable cost and availability. You can buy the product in any store at a low price.
• Mobility. The assortment includes varieties of “Raptor” that can also be used outdoors. This is very convenient, as you can take them with you fishing, nature, or dacha.
• Compactness.

It is worth noting that before entering the consumer market, the drug undergoes a number of laboratory tests that confirm the effectiveness and safety of the product.

The main substance acting on mosquitoes in the Raptor product is d-allethrin. This is a new generation poison that does not harm the health of humans and animals, of course, if its dose is insignificant. However, it has a detrimental effect on blood-sucking insects. When a mosquito inhales the aroma of a drug that contains even a small amount of poison, it is paralyzed, and after 15 minutes the pest dies.

Efficiency, types and design of insect fumigators

The principle of operation of insect fumigators is to heat the active substance and its subsequent evaporation into the surrounding space. The devices can be used both indoors and outdoors. A high-quality fumigator is a fairly effective means of combating mosquitoes, flies and midges.

An electric fumigator is a device with a heating element mounted in a plastic casing. Depending on the type and shape of the device, it can use liquid and plate cartridges. Pyrotechnic fumigators are a smoldering spiral impregnated with special compounds. As a rule, such devices are used outdoors.

Video: simultaneous use of fumigators of different models can be harmful to health

One plate impregnated with insecticide is enough for about ten hours of continuous operation. When the plate becomes pale, it must be replaced with a fresh one. One bottle of liquid can be enough for a month of work. Pyrotechnic devices are more fire hazardous than liquid or plate devices; they have a higher concentration of insecticide and require outdoor use.

Most mosquito and midge repellent devices are plugged into the network, but there are also portable models powered by batteries, gas cylinders or batteries. Pyrotechnic fumigators are installed on a safe surface and set on fire, after which the fire must be blown out until smoke appears. You should not inhale toxic fumes; in addition, smoldering coils require compliance with fire safety precautions.

How and where to store?

Storage of special fumigators must be carried out correctly, taking into account the recommendations.

• Do not leave the electrical appliance in the outlet for more than 8-12 hours. The same goes for spirals. Their smoldering is usually limited to 8 hours. After this, the pyrotechnic fumigator is removed from the stand.
• After use, the plates are stored in foil branded packaging. Each of them is designed for 8-10 hours of use. If storage rules are violated, chemical insecticides disappear much faster.
• Bottles with liquids are disconnected from the fumigator after use. They must be stored tightly closed, under a special protective cap.
• It is advisable to store the spirals in protective packaging after use. This way the product will not evaporate. Instead of cellophane, it is better to use food foil.
• At the end of use, the packaging of liquids or wafers is disposed of. No additional precautions are needed. Repellent canisters should only be discarded in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. It is strictly forbidden to throw them into fire.
• All Fumitox products should be kept away from children. They are stored in a dry, protected place at room temperature.

By following the manufacturer's recommendations, you can ensure the safe use of Fumitox brand mosquito repellents. When properly stored, they will ensure effective destruction of insects even after a long break.

Rules for indoor use

The safety certificate for using the fumigator is guaranteed by the fire certificate supplied with the device. Before use, it is important to study the instructions and then follow all the rules specified in it.

Typically, the manufacturer recommends turning on the device for several hours followed by a break. Failure to do so could potentially cause harm to the chemicals to people and pets, or the appliance could simply burn out. Before and after turning on the fumigator, it is necessary to ventilate the room. It is permissible to turn on the device at night only if there are a large number of insects in the room.

An anti-mosquito net can be installed on the window as additional protection

Some people may have an individual intolerance to the active ingredients used in the fumigator plates or liquids. Common symptoms of hypersensitivity include:

• dizziness,
• skin irritation,
• itching,
• headache.

If any of the inhabitants of the house have at least one of the listed symptoms after turning on the fumigator, you should turn off the device and use other methods of insect control.

Potentially effective, but actually of little use insect repellent

To avoid any problems in the future when using fumigators against mosquitoes and midges, adhere to the following rules:

• Before connecting the device, carefully read the instructions supplied with it;
• make sure that the power outlet is in good working order;
• Do not use the device in an unventilated room; leave the window slightly open at night;
• do not touch the body of the connected device with wet hands;
• use the fumigator one to two hours before bedtime; it is not advisable to leave the device working overnight;
• do not place the fumigator closer than one and a half meters from the sleeping place;
• in a large room, use several devices;
• use pyrotechnic fumigators only outdoors;
• if discomfort or health problems occur after turning on the fumigator, stop using the device and ventilate the room well; in case of severe symptoms, consult a doctor;
• store fumigators and consumables for it in a place inaccessible to children and pets;
• Avoid contact of plates and liquids with food and utensils.

The best liquid devices

Devices with liquid repellent from the following brands have won the trust of experts and consumers:

1. Moskitol . Home protection liquid marked “Prof” contains two repellent substances that evaporate at different temperatures and complement each other’s action. The product is designed to work for 1 month. The children's fumigator, presented in the brand's line, sprays 0.8% transfluturin and chamomile essential oils. Non-toxic, odorless, costs no more than 200 rubles. per set.
2. Raid . The liquid in the kit has a eucalyptus scent, and the device has a built-in timer, thanks to which the intensity of spraying of the product can be adjusted. Effective in rooms up to 50 m2. The cost of the bottle and fumigator is 250 rubles, the validity period does not exceed 45 days.
3. Combat . Designed to protect small (up to 20 m2) rooms from bloodsuckers using the insecticide DV-esbiotrin. The price of a set that will last up to 1 month is 250–300 rubles.
4. Family Picnic . Only natural repellents are used - essential oils of eucalyptus, Dolmatian chamomile, citronella. Suitable for treating children's rooms. The bottle is fully used with regular use for 30 days. The price of the product is 150 rubles.

Safety of children, pregnant and lactating women, and pets

In a house with children, pregnant and lactating women, as well as pets, where the fumigator is turned on, increased safety measures must be observed. In this case, it is recommended to use the device for several hours and only in the absence of children, pregnant and lactating women, as well as pets, after which the room must be ventilated. To prevent mosquitoes from flying into the room again, mosquito nets are installed on the windows. You can only leave the device overnight using special (for children) plates or liquids and with the windows open.

To protect your child from mosquitoes, it is not necessary to dress him in a mosquito suit.

The safety of children, pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as pets in a room with a working fumigator is achieved by following a few simple rules:

• turn on the device at a distance of no closer than two meters from the sleeping place;
• if there are signs such as sneezing, tearing, increased anxiety, turn off the device and ventilate the room well;
• close aquariums with fish, snails and other living creatures while the fumigator is operating;
• put cages with birds and decorative rodents in another room;
• dogs and cats should also not be located near a working device;
• observe the necessary electrical and fire safety measures;
• use devices only from proven and well-known brands;
• Do not use pyrotechnic anti-mosquito devices to protect children; consider alternative measures.

What are there

According to the principle of heating activation, the fumigator comes in two types:

1. Electric. Connects to the network via an outlet, uses batteries or a rechargeable battery. The main element is a microresistor. It heats up to about 150°C. Bottles with toxic liquid or plates impregnated with a repellent composition are attached to the device;
2. Pyrotechnic. It is a spiral or plate made of wood flour. The solution has already been applied to the canvas. Ignites with fire. Combustion of the material is accompanied by the release of odorous smoke.

Ultrasonic and light. Fumigators occupy a separate category. The name is given for the result. In fact, this is a slightly different device, since the work is not based on vapors or gases. The device turns on from the mains, begins to make a sound or emit light, which has a negative effect on mosquitoes.

Popular fumigator models

As already noted by the author, a huge percentage of modern fumigators use so-called pyrethroid insecticides. Responsible manufacturers, in turn, minimize the content of dangerous ingredients in the composition of pyrethroids, without reducing the effective effect.

Popular fumigator models are most often counterfeited

Table: the most popular devices today

How to make liquid with your own hands?

At home, you can make not only the fumigator itself, but also prepare a liquid product for it. A homemade design will work and give an effect no worse than the factory one, if you have at least minimal technical skills and you have the necessary elements at hand:

• plastic body;
• iron tip as a heating element;
• container for liquid substance;
• wick;
• electrical plug.

A homemade device is assembled according to a pre-prepared scheme. If not everyone will undertake the manufacture of the device itself, then if the liquid runs out, anyone can prepare it. Here are some simple recipes:

• mix eucalyptus essential oil with clove essential oil in equal proportions (for example, 8 drops each);
• clove and anise oils are also combined;
• 2 ml of lavender oil is mixed with 1.5 ml of citronella essential concentrate and tea tree oil (1 ml).

When choosing an essential oil, ensure that it is natural, does not cause allergies, and has a strong and lasting aroma. Strong alcohol is used as the basis for the oil composition: vodka, alcohol, who cares, cognac.

Recommendations for selection

If you want to purchase a high-quality and effective fumigator, consider several important criteria.

• Processing area. First of all, pay attention to this aspect, because the efficiency of the device depends on it. The packaging indicates the approximate range of the device. Knowing the area of ​​the room, it will not be difficult to choose a suitable device.
• View. For indoor use, it is better to take electric fumigators, and pyrotechnic ones are suitable for outdoor use.
• Type of fumigant. The plate is a simpler method, but it only lasts for 8 hours. The liquid has a faster and longer-lasting effect, and one bottle will last for 30-35 days when used 8 hours a day. For ease of use, buy a 2 in 1 device in which you can use liquid and plates.
• Concentration of toxic substances. The safe dosage for children is 10-12%. For use in rooms where there are no children, the concentration may be slightly higher.

Danger to humans and animals

Raptor mosquito repellent products

This substance is classified as low-hazard. When used correctly, it does not cause deterioration in well-being or discomfort. The liquid and plates contain a minimal amount of it. Harm to humans and animals is excluded; for mosquitoes the dose is lethal.

On a note!

To avoid increased concentrations of insecticide in the air, it is not recommended to use Raptor in rooms that are too small - less than 5 square meters. In large rooms, to increase the effectiveness of the drug, several fumigators should be turned on in different sides of the room. Otherwise, a person is faced with a situation where Raptor does not help.

Do not use the product in a room where children under 3 years of age sleep. The ban is associated with the baby’s weak immune system, and the development of individual intolerance is possible. Bio Raptor is produced separately in the form of liquid, Nekusaika plates. The composition includes a natural substance - chamomile extract called pyrethrum. It has a slight specific smell, absolutely safe for small children. Used in the same way, the liquid lasts for 40 days.

Plates

Raptor mosquito repellent plates

Mosquito protection in the form of plates with a formidable dinosaur on the packaging is familiar to everyone. This was the first product of the Raptor brand for the destruction of bloodsuckers in a residential area. The green plates are in sealed packaging individually and are sold together with a small device - a fumigator.

Operating principle

Raptor mosquito repellent plates act similarly to liquid. When heated, an active substance is released into the air - an insecticide with a nerve-paralytic effect. The active composition is identical - it's the same. The plates are saturated and the insecticide is activated when the temperature rises.

Usage

Using the fumigator is very simple. It is necessary to remove the plate from the packaging, place it in a special section of the device, and connect it to an outlet. In a closed room, connect the device half an hour before bedtime; with the windows open, leave the device on all night. You can notice the harmful effect of the active substance on mosquitoes after 5 minutes.

On a note!

Do not use the same plate several nights in a row. Outwardly, it practically does not change, but after 10 hours of work, the active substance completely disappears, further use of the product is pointless.