Question:
There is a popular yet expensive mosquito exterminating device called
the Mosquito Magnet. It utilizes propane fuel to catalytically run a
fuel cell and generate heat, co2 as well as electricity to run a fan.
There is a less expensive device made by Lentek called the Mosquito
Trap. It apparently lacks any fuel cell or catalytic process and
generates co2 and heat using a little propane-fed flame.
Is the Mosquito Trap an inexpensive knockoff of a proven device? Would
purchasing one of these be tantamount to buying a "Bolex" watch, or
investing in software from "Microfost"? Does the flame actually
achieve similar results in terms of heat, co2, and mosquito
attraction?
Is anyone aware of any studies or comparison data between these
devices?
Answer:
-I forget the name of the machine, but on the news the other night they were
reviewing a mosquito machine that is very similar to the Mos. Magnet but
lures them to sticky paper. They said that it attracted them, there were
clouds of mosquitoes around it, but didn't seem to catch them. They said
that they were not bothered by the mosquitoes though--I guess the machine
is more attractive than people.
-I think you saw the Lentek Mosquito Trap. I researched that one along
with others before I bought the Mosquito Magnet. Yes, it's a cheap
knock-off. The mosquito magnet has been around for years, now lots of
knockoffs are coming out.
Any open flame gives off a small amount of carbon dioxide, even a
candle, but not in a way that attracts mosquitoes. Who wants to
change sticky tape with dead mosquitoes? Who wants to have an open
flame (from propane no less) running constantly in your yard?
Wouldn't that make it hot too? I've got little kids and wouldn't want
that in the yard.
I bought the new mosquito magnet (the Liberty $495) and it's working
great so far although more hot days and nights will be the real test.
My friend bought one last year (the Pro) and swore by it! The
mosquitoes and noseeums go into the net and then when it's full you
pull the drawstring and empty it or throw it out.
Do your homework before you buy.
