Safe-Home.com

Question about whether to use Lurex or Octenol to increase mosquito capture rate in my Mosquito Magnet Independence Trap.

Q: "I live in Kentucky. I just bought a Mosquito Magnet Independence Mosquito Trap because we expect a huge problem with mosquitoes this summer. Which lure works the best for this area? An octenol lure came with the trap. Thanks. Sam."

Answer: You live right on the boundary line. Lurex is recommended as the better lure for Asian Tiger mosquitoes for Southern USA and Hawaii. Asia Tiger mosquitoes are more common in those areas and are day-biters as opposed to most mosquitoes who bite more at night..  Lurex3™ is a patent-pending mosquito attractant that mimics naturally occurring human skin scents or odors known to attract mosquitoes. This EPA-registered product is the only attractant developed for the Asian Tiger Mosquito. Lurex3™ out catches octenol by 3:1 on the Asian Tiger Mosquito. Lurex is also effective at luring no-see-ums and black flies as well as other mosquitoes that may transmit West Nile Virus, Encephalitis and Heartworm.

If you have tried the Octenol lure and are still getting bitten by mosquitoes who haven't found your trap more inviting than you,  you need to use Lurex3™.

If you have additional questions, please contact us.

Thank you for your questions.

Sincerely,

Barbara

Question about octenol for Mosquito Magnet Traps.

Q: "Why do I need octenol for my Mosquito Magnet Propane Mosquito Trap?"thanks. Jack

Answer: Octenol increases your catch rate significantly when used with your Mosquito Magnet traps. Octenol is a naturally occurring by-product that comes from plants and some animals. Studies have shown that Octenol, when combined with carbon dioxide produced by Mosquito Magnet traps (not included), is very attractive to many different biting insects .  We recommend Octenol as an alternative to Lurex 3N for customers located in the northern United States. Use in Mosquito Magnet Defender, Mosquito Magnet Liberty, and Mosquito Magnet Liberty Plus.

Octenol - General Facts:

    * What is it? Octenol is an EPA registered secondary attractant that mimics human breath.  It is used in Mosquito Magnet® traps to attract biting insects including mosquitoes and no-see-ums.  Made in the U.S.A.
    * What are the active ingredients:? 1-Octen-3-ol, 55.15%, Other ingredients 44.85%. Each cartridge contains 1660 mg of Octenol.
    * Why should I use it along with the Mosquito Magnet® trap? Mosquito Magnet Octenol vs. CO2:The attractant Octenol increases your catch rates up to 10 times!  Mosquitoes are not only a nuisance; they may transmit diseases that are a serious health threat to people and pets.  It will lure biting insects to the Mosquito Magnet® trap and away from you and your family.
    * What Does It Attract? Octenol attracts most mosquito species, including salt marsh mosquitoes, as well as no-see-ums and black flies.  The insects are attracted by the Octenol and are drawn to the Mosquito Magnet® trap where they are captured, then dehydrate and die.
    * Which Mosquito Lure is Right for my Area? Those who live on the coast or Northern regions of the U.S. should use Octenol to attract mosquitoes, no-see-ums and black flies.There have been recent spottings of the Asian Tiger mosquito in Northern regions.  If you have tried Octenol and are still getting bit, try Lurex 3 ™
    * How Often Should The Cartridge Be Replaced? The Octenol cartridge should be replaced every 21 days. After 21 days of use, the cartridge appears the same; however, it will no longer be effective as the octenol will have been released.The catch rate will be reduced if the attractant is not changed

I hope this answers your question. Remember that Lurex is recommended for Use Lurex with all Mosquito Magnet traps if you live in the Southern USA. Mosquitoes are a nuisance and may also transmit diseases that pose serious health risks to people and pets. Lurex 3N is specifically designed for users who have the Asian Tiger Mosquito. It's most effective in southern USA states. This product simulates human sweat to attract mosquitoes which helps you to increase your catch rates.

What is Lurex3™ Mosquito Attractant? Lurex3™ is a patent-pending mosquito attractant that mimics naturally occurring human skin scents or odors known to attract mosquitoes.  This EPA-registered product is the only attractant developed for the Asian Tiger Mosquito.  It has been designed for use with all Mosquito Magnet® Traps. Made in the U.S.A.

What is in Lurex3? There are two active ingredients In the Lurex component the active ingredients includes lactic acid, 35.40%. In the  Ammonium Bicarbonate component,  Ammonium Bicarbonate  is 74.63%.

Thanks for your question.

Sincerely, Barbara

Question about controlling mosquitoes with mosquito traps.

Q: "How does a propane mosquito trap work? When should I install one? What are the advantages of one trap over another? Thanks. Jim"

Answer: Propane mosquito traps all work basically the same. The heat and moisture generated by the trap mimics the attractants of a perspiring human body i.e. carbon dioxide (CO2), moisture and body temperature (thermal imaging. The color, shape and airflow through the trap plus an additional attractant, octenol in the case of the Koolatron units also draws mosquitoes to the trap. Octenol can be hung from the other units as well. The best time to start a trap is when the first mosquito eggs are hatching. The goal is to capture the females before they reproduce again. Draining water from ponds or low lying areas or adding mosquito preventatives helps as female mosquitoes return to lay their eggs. The women wants the blood, not the males!

There are three kinds of larger traps sold by Safe Home Products. The all electric trap, the propane and electric which requires electricity to run the fan and the all propane.

Woodstream propane mosquito traps use no electrical power other than batteries, replaceable or rechargeable. Koolatron traps include all three types.

The propane only traps have the advantage that you can move them downwind from your outdoor play areas. All that we sell protect up to about 1 acre except the electric one which is about 1/2 acre.

The Mosquito Magnet Executive Mosquito Trap by Woodstream has a patented Counterflow™ Technology that lures, captures and controls mosquitoes. This is a sophisticated unit with Smart Technology: 5 different user-friendly setting options plus 4 fuel savings modes to reduce propane use. The Mosquito Magnet® Executive can automatically start-up/power-down by itself using a rechargeable battery when the temperature reading is above or below 50° degrees. And you'll know when the battery is low, the propane is out or even when the propane nozzle is clogged. The self-contained mosquito net is rigid for better performance of the mosquito trap.

The Mosquito Magnet Independence Mosquito Trap by Woodstream also uses the Mosquito Magnet® patented Counterflow™ Technology and uses 4 C cells. Silent, odorless. Dual-tone color design is proven to attract more mosquitoes.

The Koolatron Mosquito Trap Guardian PRO-Summer Bonus Kit is offered only through June 17, 2010. Then the price increases significantly. Until then, the propane tank cover and extra octenol attractant are also included. This propane only trap, like the Woodstream traps, has a one year warranty. It uses no batteries, only propane.This is a more basic trap: change the propane tank about every 4 weeks, check at 3 weeks.

The Lentek Mosquito Trap Guardian MK12FE requires electricity to run the fan plus propane. This is the least expensive of the propane type units and works quite well although placement is limited by available electricity.

The 20 lb. propane tank and gas for all tanks must be purchased separately. Too hazardous to ship!

Thanks for your question. If you have questions about which one might best meet your needs, please email sales@safehomeproducts.com.

Sincerely, Barbara

Question about Koolatron Mosquito Trap, the Guardian Mosquito Trap MK12

Q: "How difficult is it to install and maintain the MK12 Koolatron mosquito trap?" Thanks.

Answer: I recommend this unit because it is relatively inexpensive, easy to set up and maintain and should give you years of mosquito control.

It takes me about 5 minutes to set up the MK12 propane mosquito trap. That includes moving the unit from storage on my back porch, installing the propane tank and turning on the gas (screw on after setting it on the unit's base), plugging in the cord to an outside outlet, hanging the octenol attractant and lighting the flame. The only maintenance is changing out the propane tank few months or so and replacing the octenol every 3 weeks. I suggest you weigh the full tank and an empty tank so you have an idea when a tank is really empty. Here in Iowa you get charged for a fill whether that is 5 lbs or 20 lbs. And shaking out the capture container at the end of the season or more often if your mosquito population is out of control. (The mosquitoes dry up and disintegrate into almost dust like particles).   More...

Question about using Geraniol bucket candles mosquito repelling candles.

Q: "What is the best way to use mosquito repeller candles?" Thanks. Mac

Answer: We recommend that you light geraniol candles at least 30 minutes to an hour prior to your outdoor gathering. Space the candles about 8 feet apart around the perimeter of the area where you plan to entertain. Make sure the Geraniol pillar candles or bucket candle is on a flat, heat resistant surface where it is unlikely to be knocked over. For the best protection, we recommend that you place mosquito traps down wind from your party and keep them running continuously during the mosquito/biting insect season. The best unit is the all propane mosquito trap since you can place it anywhere you choose without an electrical outlet nearby.

Take care when using any burning candle to make sure that it’s on a flat, heat-resistant surface to prevent the candle from tipping over or spilling wax, and never leaving a burning candle unattended.

Among the pleasant smelling geraniol options are:

• Geraniol wristbands that use geraniol imbedded in plastic bracelets you can loop around wrist, ankle or bell or place out of reach of a baby on a stroller
• Geraniol bucket candles. Each weighs just over a pound, is in a silver colored and burns for about 50 hours.
  
• Geraniol pillar candles. Each 3 inch by 3 inch pillar candle weighs about 11 ounces and burns for about 36 hours.
• Geraniol and citronella ceramic candles: Each ceramic pot can be refilled with a 3 inch pillar candle.
• Colored Bucket Candles: Refill with pillar.

Remember if you have a pond or other standing water you may need to take more action. Mosquito Dunks are made with natural BTI (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies israelensis), Mosquito Dunks represent a major breakthrough for people and the environment compared with the traditional toxic chemical approach to mosquito control. BTI is a live bacteria that's deadly to mosquito larvae, Once a month float a Dunk in the water garden and every place water accumulates around the home. Each Dunk will effectively treat up to 100 square feet off surface water regardless of depth. Dunks may be broken to treat small areas. Mosquito Dunks are an effective biological mosquito larvicid. EPA registered in all 50 states. Unused and dried out Dunks retain their potency indefinitely

Thank you for your question. Enjoy your parties.
Sincerely, Barbara

Question about the bluebird houses and how to attract bluebirds to my yard.

Q: "My family enjoys bird watching in our backyard. How do we attract bluebirds? We know they are beautiful to watch and we understand they eat a lot of insects, too." thanks. Dave

Answer: Attract and keep bluebirds in your backyard by providing them with houses in which to nest and the foods they love to eat. Bluebirds love insects, especially larva.

Some suggested boxes:

• Song Bird Essentials Bluebird Birdhouse with Plexiglass Viewing Top.
• Songbird Essentials Flat Top Bluebird House
• Woodlink Audubon - Coppertop Bluebird House

Some suggested bluebird feeders:

• Song Essentials Bluebird Feeder. Bluebirds soon learn to reach inside this feeder for the meal worms & treats you provide. Designed for easy three step training. 1) Leave the lid open, held by the cable and remove one plexiglas side. 2) Insert plexiglass side. 3) Close the lid so only bluebirds can use the feeder.
• Protected Bluebird Jail FeederThis feeder is made to discourage larger birds from feasting on meal worms and blue bird food.

Suggested food:

• Bulk Dried Mealworms average count 176,000
• Unipeck - Value Tub Dried Mealworms average count 10,000

Thank you for your question. Enjoy your bird-watching.
Sincerely, Barbara

Question about Using Geraniol as a Mosquito Repellant and with Mosquito Traps.

Q: "We entertain outdoors and want to keep the mosquitos away from our guests. I've been told that geraniol is a safe option to yard sprays or applying Deet to exposed skin. What is it? How do you use it to keep mosquitos away?, etc. I see you sell wristbands, pillar candles and bucket candles. How do you combine these products with a mosquito trap?" Thanks. Sara

Answer: Geraniol is a safe option to Deet and insect sprays. It is a natural essential oil, a “green” product that uses oil extracted from plants such as lemon grass that have a natural ability to protect themselves against feeding insects. There is no known toxicity to the environment. Jerry Butler from the University of Florida, in Gainesville developed this insect repellent after 15 years of tests on more than 3,900 compounds. Geraniol protects people and pets against everything from mosquitoes and ticks to tiny “no-see-ums.” It was tested to be more than 400% more effective than citronella.

Among the pleasant smelling geraniol options are:

• Geraniol wristbands that use geraniol imbedded in plastic bracelets you can loop around wrist, ankle or bell or place out of reach of a baby on a stroller
• Geraniol bucket candles. Each weighs just over a pound, is in a silver colored and burns for about 50 hours.
  
• Geraniol pillar candles. Each 3 inch by 3 inch pillar candle weighs about 11 ounces and burns for about 36 hours.
  

Koolatron recommends that you place the candles about 8 feet apart for maximum no-see-um, mosquito, biting fly, etc. protection. To improve the odds you won't get bitten by mosquitos, we also recommend that you place mosquito traps down wind from your party and keep them running continuously during the mosquito/biting insect season. The best unit is the all propane mosquito trap since you can place it anywhere you choose without an electrical outlet nearby. We also sell Koolatron UV 12 volt DC Biting Insect Traps that can be used with AC adapters, are inexpensive and can be placed just beyond the "candle range" to attract biting insects.

Candles may also be burned inside. Do remember the dangers of leaving candles burning unattended.

Thanks for your question. Enjoy a summer with fewer bug bites. For those that get past, try an Itchsoother.

Sincerely, Barbara

Question about Koolatron mosquito traps, the Bite Shield Mosquito Trap MK14, the Guardian Mosquito Trap MK12 and the Koolatron Champion Mosquito Trap MK05G.

Q: "Summers are miserable in my backyard because of mosquitoes. My land drains well so there are no standing water issues. But the mosquitoes just swarm. My yard is about 1/4 acre. Which mosquito trap would be most effective? What are the pros and cons of each unit?" Thanks. Fred.
Answer: All three mosquito traps would reduce the mosquito population in your yard if run continuously throughout the season. Performance is better if you replace the optional octenol attractant, every 3 weeks. Also you need to get the unit running at the start of the season. If you live in town, I recommend that you encourage your neighbors to drain standing water and install traps, too.

I recommend that choose a mosquito trap based upon these factors: Availability of electricity in an area downwind from your home. Physical ability to carry and attach a 20 lb. tank of propane. Willingness to keep tabs on the propane tank's level and change out the tank with a filled one every few weeks. Optimizing performance by replacing the octenol attractant every three weeks.

Both the MK12 and the MK14 use propane and are effective for up to 1 acre. The MK05G uses only electricity and is effective for up to 1/2 acre.

The most expensive and newest premium mosquito trap is the MK14 that uses only propane. Needing no electricity, this mosquito trap with wheels is easily moved for best placement depending upon prevailing winds The best placement for all traps is 30 to 40 feet down wind from the area to be protected and near busy and leafy plants without strong odor. The propane needs replaced about once per month.

The MK12 uses both electricity and propane. Remember that propane is a major attractant. A female mosquito senses the CO 2 and moisture from the gas burner from up to 40 ft. away. The mosquito flies toward this "breathing" creature. At about 15 ft, the female mosquito senses temperature like a living creature (thermal imaging), tried to "bite" and gets sucked into the unit by the fan. I've been using this unit in my Iowa backyard for over 4 years. My placement of the unit is not the best yet the mosquitos are a non-issue most of the time. I have an outside outlet on my patio so I don't use an extension cord. (I have about 1/3 acre fenced plus the hillside behind the house which is another 1/2 acre.)

The MK05G Mosquito Guardian is the smallest and least expensive unit and uses only electricity. Set it to operate only after sundown or throughout 24 hours. It uses 71 watts, is UL Listed and is about 12 inches in diameter and about 11 inches high. Again, this unit works better with octenol. My son in Minneapolis has used his for several years with no operational issues and with very good but not excellent results for mosquitoes and biting flies since no one around him has a unit.

I hope this has helped you make your choice.

Sincerely, Barbara

Question about using bat houses to attract bats to backyards to control insects.

Q: "I am looking for a "green solution" for insect control around my home. We have a wooded lot. How do I attract bats to my yard? Are bats dangerous? Are some bat houses better than others?"Thanks. Lloyd.

Answer: Bats are greatly misunderstood: research shows that one bat can consume more than 600 mosquitoes per hour. Bats eat other flying species of insects such as corn borers and cutworm moths. So, yes, this is a cost-effective organic pest control method you should pursue. You can make your own bat house if you'd like. Buying a kit or pre-constructed kit may be cost effective when you consider the tools, time, etc.

How to Attract Bats:

• Install bat houses.
• Have water nearby: a lake, a pond, a bird bath, etc. where insects gather. (How about a backyard koi pond with solar water pump?)
• Plant night-blooming flowers.

Bat House Instructions:

• Most bat houses are made by a rough, nontoxic wood (such as plywood or cedar): a rough surface makes it easier for bats to climb in and out of the house.
• Size of the house: at least 2 feet tall, 1 foot wide, and 3 inches deep.
• Mount your bat house is in the fall or winter. This lets the wood of the house to age and odors dissipate.
• Install facing south, preferably where sunlight reaches the house most of the day.
• Mount on a pole, tree or under the eaves of a house, garage or barn about 12 to 15 feet above the ground.
• Be patient: it may take up to a year to attract a colony.

Like any mammal, bats can catch rabies: the risks are low and you are unlikely to handle a bat.

Some suggested bat houses:

• Heath Bat House BAT-1ADimensions: 11.5 inches by 12.8 inches by 2.5 inches deep. Meets guidelines from Bat Conservation International.
• Schrodt - Colony Bat House:A triple chambered nursery capable of accomodating dozens of mature bats and their offspring. Etched brass moon and branded bat design. 17 inches tall.
• Songbird Cedar Large Bat Chalethis large bat house has grooves on the inside front and back so bats can "hang out" in comfort. The Songbird Cedar Bat Chalet has two compartments, room for a colony of bats. Mount 15-20 feet high on pole, structure or tree. Install now for next summer. Dimensions: 18 inches by 4 inches by 13 inches.

There are many other options. Remember that bats do not chase away birds nor do they suck the blood of humans!