Mosquitoes are well-travelled insects found across the world except in Antarctica and islands with subpolar climates (Iceland being the best-known of these). They are most prevalent in tropical regions but represent an increasing pest elsewhere.
Mosquitos are an unwanted presence on warm summer and autumn evenings so you’ve got to anticipate them being unwanted guests at barbecues or other outdoor gatherings.
In more extreme cases, mosquitoes are disease transmitters! Â But even when not spreading viruses, a mosquito bite is a nasty souvenir of an otherwise pleasant summer evening.
BEST CHOICE
Burgess 1443 Propane Insect Fogger
Best Mosquito Fogger Insecticide in Our Rating
- Inexpensive, portable and easy-to-use
- Includes a safety trigger lock preventing accidental use
- Covers a vast area rapidly; area ready for habitation within minutes
- Professionally endorsed
Selecting the Best Mosquito Fogger Insecticide September, 2021
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1. Burgess 1443 Propane Insect Fogger: Best Lightweight Thermal Fogger
The Burgess 1443, a perennially popular choice as a comprehensive fogger, is competitively priced without skimping on the features needed to battle against our airborne enemy. It disperses an odorless fog across 5,000 sq. meters in about 10 minutes.
Within 5 minutes, said fog has dissolved to the extent that people (and pets) can enter the treated area which will be mosquito-free for 6 hours presenting the perfect scenario for barbecues and outdoor entertaining.
Weighing below 3lbs, the Burgess 1443 is portability personified and, tellingly, employs a system favored by professionals to eradicate mosquitoes carrying the infamous West Nile virus. Users report this model lasting well beyond the 6 hours guaranteed by manufacturers.
- Inexpensive, portable and easy-to-use
- Includes a safety trigger lock preventing accidental use
- Covers a vast area rapidly; area ready for habitation within minutes
- Professionally endorsed
- Manufacturers recommend just one specific insecticide (not included)
- Some customers report difficulties with the plastic casing
2. Tri Jet ULV Non-Thermal Fogger: Best Durable Cold Fogger
The brainchild of Createch, the Tri Jet ULV Non-Thermal Fogger is an impressive cold fogger capable of sweeping expanses of up to 30 feet from the user – a “reach” beyond the capabilities of many rival devices. Aluminum-made and long-lasting, it has found use to overpower other insects and pests.
The Tri Jet is usable indoors to great effect as it is powered by electricity and is equally effective in conjunction with either oil or water-based solution.
With a striking aluminum design, the Tri Jet even manages the atypical feat (for a mosquito fogger) of looking stylish. Multiple nozzles accord it a directable functionality to address and douse specific areas.
- Longevity
- 5 year warranty – significantly lengthier than rivals
- 3 nozzles facilitating specific pointing at small areas
- Ideal for indoor use
- Weighs 12lbs, not ideal for prolonged usage
- Loud motor
3. Concrobium 200620810 Mold Control Fogger: Best Indoor Fogger
The Concrobium 200620810 is the friend of people reluctant to be tied down to fogging an area for prolonged periods rendering them incapable of alternative activity.
It is an electrically-powered fogger featuring a control setting allowing it to be set up and left to perform its magic unsupervised – paramount on anybody’s wish list for indoor fogging.
With a spray area stretching to 30 feet, it douses the treatment zone quickly and, aluminum-made, boasts durability. An auto igniter renders it quick-starting and is versatile in treating concerns like mold or unwanted odors.
- Perfect for indoor use
- Multi-purpose
- Vigilance unnecessary
- Expensive
- More suitable to treat mold, mildew, etc. than mosquitoes
4. Petra Electric Atomizer Fogger Backpack Sprayer: Best Backpack Fogger
The Petra Electric Atomizer Backpack inhabits the less-populated field of foggers housed in backpacks. It combines comfort with an ergonomic design – a boon to long-suffering users of heavier hand-held devices.
Boasting a muscular 1,200 watt motor and spray distance up to 15 feet, it accords the user the wherewithal to complete a task quickly. Furthermore, it is conducive to prolonged usage.
A favorite with professionals, this model is uncomplicated and, electrically powered, usable indoors. It requires an extension lead to cover larger treatment areas although a battery-powered variant exists.
- Comfortable to carry
- Powerful
- Versatile – usable indoors and outdoors
- Economical
- Difficult (and prohibitively expensive) to obtain at time of writing courtesy of usage combatting Covid-19
- Electric-power thereby requiring extension leads outdoors
5. Smith Performance FT982 Electric Thermal Fogger: Best Electric Thermal Fogger
The Smith Performance FT982 Electric Thermal Fogger features a bespoke heating element which expels the fog instantly; a fog which hunts down and kills mosquitoes for up to six hours.
Professionally endorsed, it utilizes the proven methodology used to terminate mosquitoes carrying the West Nile virus.
Electrically powered, it can be securely used indoors and outdoors and its reach makes it effective against other indoor-habituating pests. Its armory extends to producing both wet and dry fogs.
- Professionally endorsed systems
- Includes adjustable flow rates which optimize performance
- Lightweight
- No inflammable materials involved
- Versatile – equally effective inside dwellings and externally
- Electrically powered so extension leads required where distance is involved
- Expensive
6. Varomorus Propane Insect Fogger: Targettable Pest Fogger
The Varomorus Propane Insect Fogger is a portable thermal fogger, effective at eradicating pests in specific areas. Equally successful paired with oil or water-based solutions, it boasts a high success rate in pest control.
Although it is mostly used to eradicate pests which threaten bees, the Varomorus is especially adept when attacking smaller and impenetrable locations courtesy of an extension nozzle which can be guided towards the target.
- Powerful device covers small areas very quickly
- Use of extension nozzle increases effectiveness
- Portable
- Most effective at protecting bees
- Expensive
7. Black Flag 190107 Electric Insect Fogger: Best Safety Enhanced Electric Thermal Fogger
The Black Flag 190107 Electric Insect Fogger, another electric thermal fogger, incorporates the better attributes of cold and thermal devices.
It can envelop in fog areas measuring 5,000 sq. meters in just 5 minutes doing so from an electrically powered motor. Sufficiently light to enhance portability, the sole exterior limitation being a necessity to use an extension lead.
Safety features abound with the Black Flag 190107 – usage of electricity rather than propane (albeit not recommended for use indoors) and possesses a safety trigger which insures against accidental use. It is economical in its usage of solution.
- Inexpensive
- Extension leads are included
- Works quickly to generate the fog which also dissipates rapidly
- Covers a large expanse quickly
- Unsuitable for indoor use unlike most electrically powered foggers
- Mobility limited by reliance on extension lead
8. Black Flag 190095 Propane Insect Fogger: Best Value for Money Fogger
The Black Flag 190095 Propane Insect Fogger is a thermal fogger boasting features you might expect from a less competitively priced device. A built-in solution container eliminates the necessity to have a cylinder attached.
It is fast-acting (fog generated across 5,000 square meters through 10 minutes deployment clears in 5 minutes) without leaving any unpleasant odor behind.
Composed of plastic, this is a super lightweight, easy-to-carry fogger incorporating a fuel control valve facilitating instant adjustments to the fuel supply. Surprisingly inexpensive given its quality, it is difficult to unearth a better option on the market.
- Built-in solution container eliminating the need to carry a propane cylinder
- Lightweight
- Inexpensive
- Powerful and speedy
- Restricted to use of Black Flag solution (although reputable brand)
- Users report longevity issues
9. Repel 190397 Propane Insect Fogger: Best Fogger for Small Areas
The Repel 190397 Propane Insect Fogger is the ideal thermal fogger for confined outdoor areas. Approved by people who use it on small gardens and campsites, it also handles large areas effectively. It is heavier than many comparable propane foggers but is still easily carried during usage.
The Repel 190397 can penetrate even the most hidden parts of a garden and does so quickly in a manner which leaves said area habitable for humans just minutes after the fog has been circulated.
- Covers a large area effectively but highly successful in confined zones
- Easy to use
- Users report that the successful effects last longer than manufacturers’ 6 hour claim
- Comparatively inexpensive
- Heavier than most propane foggers
- Restricted to using manufacturers’ own brand solution (albeit a reputable one)
10. Bonide 420 Fog-Rx Propane Insect Fogger: Best Versatile Fogger
The Bonide 420 Fog-Rx Propane Insect Fogger repeatedly emerges as one of the best-selling thermal foggers on the market – no surprise there since it is inexpensive, durable and treats a large expanse speedily (4,000 square meters in 10 minutes).
The manufacturer recommends using a Bonide solution but users testify the device is equally effective through deploying insecticide from other brands, e.g. Black Flag.
The Bonide 420 features multiple control buttons – igniter, fogging trigger, safety button and a gas release valve. These combine to make it an adaptable and versatile fogger which should satisfy even the most discerning user.
- Reassuring range of safety features allied to other controls
- Inexpensive
- Good coverage rapidly attained
- Users commend its durability
- Other users report problems e.g. flames emerging rather than fog
- Short warranty – just three months
Our Guide to Mosquito Foggers
A Mosquito Fogger dispenses insecticide (mosquito repellent) over various ranges to eradicate active mosquitoes or permanent expulsion from the treated area. It turns insecticide into droplets which remain airborne before alighting upon the targeted area.
Insecticide dispersal happens either by:
- Heating until it becomes a vapor (fog) before releasing the gaseous substance or
- Dispensing the solution forcibly via a spout to generate mist.
Two species exist: Thermal foggers are the agents for production of fog; Cold foggers create mist. Microns are the measurement units for particles discharged (micrometers or one-millionth of a meter: miniscule undetectable molecules). Typically the thermal fogger units measure about quarter those of the cold fogger’s output. Let’s undertake a closer examination of both devices.
Thermal Fogger
Thermal foggers heat the insecticide to a point where it becomes a vapor or fog and released across the targeted zone through a spray nozzle. This transformation is accomplished through deploying, mostly, a propane gas cylinder connected to the fogger. A smaller band of thermal foggers employ electricity to initiate a similar outcome.
The resultant fog is momentarily dense and visible rendering it controllable, suited to outdoor expanses where its visibility makes it avoidable. A person fogging an area could be unaware of bystanders or approaching individuals so the perceptible fog will help avoid accusations of antisocial behavior.
The insecticide itself has been atomized into minute particles avoiding any harm being inflicted on humans. Mosquitoes, however, are stunned, unable to escape as the fog permeates locations not accessible by liquid insecticide dousing. Thermal foggers aren’t compatible with indoor spaces since propane-fired devices represent fire hazards.
Cold Fogger
Cold – or Ultra Low Volume (ULV) – foggers contain an electrically powered motor expelling insecticide via a nozzle at high pressure releasing it in the guise of mist or spray. Using electricity makes these devices safer than the thermal equivalent. However, since they emit a mist or spray, it cannot be readily ascertained whether the target has been hit.
The case FOR Thermal Foggers:
- Thermal foggers can be directed towards the area inhabited by mosquitoes with an identifiable indication of where the insecticide will infiltrate.
- The fog can inveigle its way into spaces not readily visible. Like many pests, mosquitoes often lurk in undergrowth only reachable by something sinuous like fog.
- Propane-fired thermal foggers are highly portable since the power source is integral to the device.
- Typically, the period of protection from mosquitoes pursued by a thermal fogger will be around six hours.
- Operationally straightforward, the device requires just a few minutes for propane or electricity to heat the solution to a requisite temperature.
- Energy efficiency is inherent in thermal foggers since the heating process consumes little energy and the target zone is fogged quickly.
Thermal Foggers: Bear in Mind:
- Propane-fired foggers are powerful and potentially hazardous devices: don’t play recklessly with fire.
- Prevailing weather conditions (e.g. strong winds) can render them ineffective and imperil users.
- Cylinders of propane are rarely included in the purchase.
- Protective gear (mouth guard, earmuffs, goggles, clothing giving full body-cover) should be worn during the process, especially in inclement weather conditions.
- Electrically powered foggers limit mobility and may constitute a hazard in wet weather.
- Most thermal foggers function with either oil-based or water-based solutions…but not always. If the choice exists, oil-based are preferred for outdoor fogging whereas water-based the choice in enclosed areas or in proximity to food or people.
The case FOR Cold Foggers:
- By turning a flow valve on the device, users can control the magnitude of particles emitted.
- Cold foggers can be set to automatic and utilized for longer periods without an operand on hand. This isn’t possible with thermal foggers which require constant spray trigger deployment.
- Cold foggers use less insecticide making them cheaper to deploy and particles emitted tend to be odorless.
- The cold fogger is preferred indoors – no inflammatory substances.
- The versatility of cold foggers ensures their popularity as they can be effective weapons against other pests besides mosquitoes.
- Most cold foggers use aluminum – an enduring metal – as the main material in their composition.
Cold Foggers – Bear in Mind:
- Because cold foggers are electrically powered, usage is limited by the power cord length unless an extension lead is deployed. Extension leads bring a fresh set of safety issues.
- Mosquitoes may gather beneath foliage or in undergrowth unreachable by a cold fogger spray.
- The output from a cold fogger isn’t easily seen so it’s often unclear that it has reached its target. That same invisibility can also see the user inadvertently walking into the mist.
- In general, cold foggers are more expensive than thermal foggers although some initial outlay can be recouped through the devices’ longevity.
- Cold foggers are noisy because of the pressure needed to power them. It’s advisable to wear earmuffs in addition to protective clothing, mouth guards and goggles.
Conclusion
There are mosquito foggers which meet just about any requirement and it is probably a pointless task in trying to recommend one above another. Read our guide thoroughly and shop around to get the best price for your choice…and enjoy summer/autumn days/evenings devoid of that ominous low-level buzzing sound.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do environmental concerns exist around foggers?
Insecticides used conform to environmental standards although some possess a strong odour or may be mildly uncomfortable to people with respiratory problems.
Are they harmful to other animals or insects?
They should be used with caution in areas populated by more welcome insects’ e.g. bees. The insecticide (repellent) will have clear guidelines.
Is any particular time more effective for deployment of a fogger?
Mosquitoes are most active at dawn, dusk or later afternoon. Plans to make this the optimum utilization time.
Is there an optimum location to use a mosquito fogger?
Mosquitoes are highly mobile insects but, in general, they populate locales hosting vegetation, shrubbery and/or standing water (including swimming pools or water butts). The latter locations are the likeliest spot for breeding and egg-hatching.
Which repellents should be used against mosquitoes?
We concentrate on insecticides, the solutions used in foggers. Chemicals like larvicides, when added to water features, are powerful agents in destroying mosquitoes before they hatch.
Must I use a fogger?
Foggers, although they may seem invasive, have a proven track record being efficient and swift in eradicating mosquitoes. We find nothing to like about these buzzy, biting insects and advocate whatever means necessary to dispense with them. Foggers work.
Samuel says
If you’ve never suffered the effects of bed bugs, I cannot adequately describe to you the humiliation felt by those of us who have had to deal with them. Even though none of us wanted nor asked for them, it is a pretty demoralizing experience I hope I never have to deal with again. Tri Jet ULV Non-Thermal was the only, that decided my problem!
Luiza says
If you’re looking for a way to spray large plants and be sure you cover the underside of every leaf this is what you need to buy. I’ve used more than 10 different sprayers in a couple of foggers, this Petra works way better than any of them and it’s not even close.
Peter says
I’ve recommended Petra to all my medical grower friends and they’ve had the same results and positive reviews. Wish I would have bought this 8 years ago when I started using sprayers, I would have been able to keep a lot of moms I ended up tossing due to mites or aphids. Do yourself a favor and buy it now.
Jason Tenkotte says
Is fogging safe if you have a pool ?