CO2 emitters to ward off mosquito's - works?

  • Thread starter rolerbe
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Co2 Works
In summary, adding a CO2 emitter to your home may help reduce mosquito problems, but it is not 100% effective.
  • #1
rolerbe
103
3
Anyone have practical experience with the propane (or vinegar/baking soda) CO2 emitters which purport to reduce mosquito problems? End of biting season for this year, but would like to have an effective approach for next year.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Oops. This should be in the product claims sub-forum, but I don't know how to move it there.
 
  • #3
Mosquitoes use CO2 from animal exhalations to find their prey, so it seems logical that it would work. I would need more data to assess it in more depth other than saying that it seems feasible.
 
  • #4
The emitters work in conjuction with UV attractors and bug zappers to more effectively attract the mosquitos.

On the other hand, if you fill a room with 50% CO2 gas, the mosquitos will die.
 
  • #5
Yeah, they don't ward them off, they attract them to the bug zapper (the lights mostly attract moths, not mosquitoes).

How well they work really depends on how many mosquitoes you need to control. If you have a limited area you need to control mosquitoes (like a screened porch where you just want to kill the few who sneak in the doors), it's probably going to work, but if you're trying to attract every mosquito in the neighborhood to the zapper instead of to you, that's probably wishful thinking.

Important things for controlling mosquitoes mostly involve getting rid of their breeding grounds...standing water. Change the water in bird baths daily, make sure there aren't any buckets or old tires or flower pots collecting water that is just sitting, keep pools properly chlorinated, stuff like that.
 
  • #6
mugaliens said:
The emitters work in conjuction with UV attractors and bug zappers to more effectively attract the mosquitos.

On the other hand, if you fill a room with 50% CO2 gas, the mosquitos will die.

Interesting, how would that effect an adult person ?
 
  • #7
yaang said:
Interesting, how would that effect an adult person ?

Adult will die much earlier.

At this moment adding more carbon dioxide is a waste of gas, as mosquitoes are no longer a threat.
 
  • #8
Thanks for the heads up
 

FAQ: CO2 emitters to ward off mosquito's - works?

How do CO2 emitters ward off mosquitoes?

CO2 emitters release carbon dioxide, which is a gas that is naturally emitted by mammals when they exhale. Mosquitoes are attracted to this gas, mistaking it for a potential blood source. The CO2 emitters lure the mosquitoes away from humans by emitting a concentrated amount of carbon dioxide in a designated area.

Are CO2 emitters effective in repelling all types of mosquitoes?

CO2 emitters are effective in repelling most species of mosquitoes, including the most common types that transmit diseases such as malaria, dengue, and Zika. However, there may be some species that are not affected by the CO2 and may still bite.

How long do CO2 emitters last?

The lifespan of CO2 emitters varies depending on the brand and model. Some CO2 emitters can last up to 12 hours, while others may only last for a few hours. It is important to read the instructions and replace the CO2 canister when necessary.

Are CO2 emitters safe for humans and pets?

CO2 emitters are generally safe for humans and pets. However, it is important to follow the safety precautions provided by the manufacturer, such as keeping the CO2 emitter away from food and drinks and avoiding direct inhalation of the emitted gas.

Can CO2 emitters be used indoors?

CO2 emitters are not recommended for indoor use as they require a large area to disperse the carbon dioxide and may pose a fire hazard if not used properly. It is best to use CO2 emitters in outdoor spaces such as patios, decks, and yards.

Back
Top