Things You Need To Know About Mosquito Fogging
Many people see mosquitoes as a nuisance to deal with. However, they also tend to be dangerous because they can transmit through bite life-threatening viral diseases like dengue, malaria, Zika, yellow fever, and chikungunya.
That is why controlling the mosquito population is essential to avoid such severe repercussions for you and your family. Thankfully, there are many ways to get rid of these critters, one of which is mosquito fogging.
This pest control method is a way of eliminating large numbers of adult mosquitoes by spraying synthetic pyrethroid, an insecticide solution, using a fogging machine. The chemical is converted into fog and then dispersed to spaces where mosquitoes are likely found. Such areas include thick bushes, watered grasses, gutters, and places with stagnant water.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), synthetic pyrethroid is lethal to mosquitoes and other insects of similar size but is generally harmless to people. The chemical is also safe for animals and plants. Though the insecticide is not dangerous, it would be best for your children and pets to be away from the fogging path.
Benefits of Using a Mosquito Fogger
There are merits to killing mosquitoes through fogging. Here are a few of them:
- Effective in Reducing Mosquito Population Short-Term
Fogger machines have been proven to be 90% effective in eliminating mosquitoes. However, the effect can last between three days and two weeks. Fogging is only temporary, but many use this method as a quick fix to get rid of mosquitoes for outdoor events, parties, and activities.
- Affordable
The average cost for a mosquito fogging service is between $100 and $500, which is lower than the cost of other pest control services. But if you don’t want to employ a professional, you can also save on expenses in the long run by fogging the property yourself. However, you must be familiar with maneuvering a fogger before buying your own fogging machine and protective gear.
- Seldom or No Repellent Reapplication
Though bug repellant lotions, creams, and sprays are beneficial in protecting against mosquitoes, these products may be harmful to your skin. Side effects may include rashes, allergies, skin irritation, and inflammation. If you’ve used a fogger, you won’t have any need to apply or constantly reapply these repellents on your skin to prevent mosquito bites.
Different Types of Mosquito Foggers
There are many types of mosquito foggers available. Here are the three most prevalent ones in the market.
1. Propane Thermal Fogger
A propane thermal fogging machine’s heating coil vaporizes the insecticide into a cloud of smoke-like fog. Since this fogger uses high temperature to work, it is not safe to use indoors where flammable materials are around. Thermal foggers are preferably used outdoors instead.
For effective mosquito control, droplet particle sizes must be between 10 to 20 microns. Thermal foggers can produce particles ranging from 0.5 to 50 microns. Since the droplets can be tinier, they can stay longer in the air, and they have more chance of coming into contact with mosquitoes.
This type of fogger uses propane gas to operate but does not come with a propane tank, so you need to buy it separately. A propane thermal fogger can also be costly because it uses a lot of fuel. If the gas is expensive in your area, this fogger may not be ideal.
2. Ultra-Low Volume (ULV) Fogger
The most commonly used fogging machine is the ULV, also known as a cold fogger. It uses air pressure to atomize the liquid solution. One of the best features of cold foggers is that they allow you to control and adjust the particle size of fog easily. This type of fogging machine can produce droplet sizes ranging from 5 to 20 microns. Moreover, ULVs are safe to use indoors, unlike thermal foggers.
3. Electric Thermal Fogger
This fogging machine operates the same way as a propane thermal fogger. An electric thermal fogger uses electricity to spray mist in the air. Since this fogger also uses heat to operate, it is not ideal for indoor use. Another setback of the electric thermal type is that it can only work if there is a power outlet in the intended fogging area.
Reach Out to a Mosquito Control Expert
Fogging is only one way of protecting you and your family from mosquito-borne diseases. Learn more about effective ways of eliminating these critters by getting in touch with a reputable pest control company. For professional fogging services, contact skilled mosquito foggers in your vicinity.
