What should you know when choosing insecticidal lamps?
We all know that persistent, annoying sound that flying mosquitoes make. Unfortunately, in the Polish climate, these troublesome insects that regularly enter apartments, summer houses, or hotel rooms are a nuisance that can ruin even the best vacations. However, this problem can be combated by equipping yourself with a fly and mosquito killer lamp.
In the store OLE.pl we offer a wide selection of solutions that will work during the summer season - from adhesive lamps, through electric shock lamps, to decorative insect killer lamps.
Why buy an insect lamp?
The first answer that comes to mind for most people is, of course, comfort and spending warm, summer evenings on the terrace. However, that's not all. The possibility of getting rid of annoying insects will be appreciated especially by allergy sufferers, risking their health through contact with insects.
A sting from a wasp, bee, or especially a hornet can be fatal due to the potential for anaphylactic shock, which is a direct result of the sting. What's more, this type of reaction can appear with age, so we don't even have to be aware of our allergy, which may reveal itself at the most unexpected moment.
How does an insect killer lamp work?
Each insect killer lamp has a lure that attracts insects. Most often, it is a special bulb that emits UVA radiation. It can also be pheromones, which, when heated, make insects eager to fly to the source of the scent. The most modern devices use LED lights for this purpose.
The attracted insect enters the main mechanism of the container, where it is caught or killed. The way such a device works may vary, depending on the chosen model.
In practice, several types of fly and mosquito lamps are used. Some devices can be used both outdoors and indoors. Especially those intended for outdoor use must be waterproof. Other lamps will be useful in a restaurant or bakery, while others in a vacation home. How do they differ and how do individual methods work?
Glue lamps
This is the simplest (and oldest) of the methods used. The UV lamp attracts insects, which stick to the glue or special insecticide substance. However, when choosing a proven solution, it is important to remember that the glue must be replaced from time to time, as it can become clogged. Over time, it also dries out, causing the incoming insect to bounce off instead of sticking to it.
An example of a fly lamp is the Flytrap Professional by Insect-O-Cutor. The product is effective on an area of up to 80 m2 thanks to two 15 W bulbs. It works perfectly in all rooms where we prepare or serve meals, such as the kitchen, dining room or cafeteria. The aesthetic finish in steel makes the device subtle and not noticeable.
Zapping lamps
These types of lamps work based on a grid through which a current with a high voltage flows. Insects attracted by the UV lamp are burned when they enter it. These devices are most commonly used in utility or breeding rooms. They will also work anywhere where we are not dealing with food. The typical voltage used for zapping in UV lamps for mosquitoes is from 2 to 4 Watts.
A popular choice in this segment is the Bros insect lamp. However, we recommend an industrial bug zapper lamp. We are talking about the PlusZap model. It is equipped with two fluorescent tubes, each with a power of 15 watts. The large surface of the insect killing grid, multiple mounting systems, and sturdy steel construction are the main advantages of this product.
Decorative lamps
Sometimes, we want the UV insect lamp to be as inconspicuous as possible for customers in the venue. This is especially important in hotels, cafes, and anywhere guests want to spend their time pleasantly.
If we are looking for a subtle, elegant solution, the best idea would be to purchase a UV light in a delicate housing that we can match to the interior finish. Both types of methods are used here - both striking and powdery. An example of a decorative lamp is Insect O Cutor. Thanks to its modern design, it will work in any reception, hotel, as well as commercial facilities.
Ceiling fans with insect repellent
Relatively new solution are ceiling fans with mosquito and fly repellent. These devices also use UV spectrum, but unlike other methods, they do not kill insects, but push them into a small container, where we can transport them outside and release them.
A good place to install a windmill lamp would be a confectionery or bakery. In establishments where food is prepared, the use of shock or glue lamps is not recommended due to the increased risk of dead insects coming into contact with food products.
Advantages of insecticidal lamps
External and internal insecticidal lamps are popular among users for many reasons - and it's not always just about providing comfort in the room.
First and foremost, this is a very quiet solution, regardless of whether we choose a shock, glue or windmill insecticidal lamp. Shock lamps may sometimes make a cracking sound, indicating that an insect has touched the grid connected to electricity. Windmill lamps, on the other hand, generate a slight noise, depending on the intensity of the device's work. Glue lamps, on the other hand, do not make any sounds. Generally speaking, however, the working culture of devices for controlling insects is very high.
This is also a completely safe solution for health, as UV lamps do not emit smoke, unpleasant odors or harmful chemicals - potentially harmful for allergy sufferers or small children.
Finally, these are solutions that last a long time. Fluorescent tubes in fly lamps should be replaced on average every 12 months. Over time, they lose their power and therefore attract insects less effectively. It is also good to change the sticky traps at least once a month, as they dry out and become less effective. However, it should be remembered that high temperature or dust in the room accelerates the drying process.
Using insect-repelling or eliminating lamps during the season increases hygiene in the room. Insects often carry various parasites and bacteria on their legs. The less they get into the room, the lower the risk of infection with a pathogen.
In addition to replacing the fluorescent tube, it is also necessary to regularly clean the trays with insect carcasses in fly lamps.
It is a good idea to perform a comprehensive maintenance of all insecticidal lamps every year when the first insects start to appear. In Poland, this time falls between the end of February and March.
Remember to disconnect the power supply of the lamps before starting the maintenance. Otherwise, there is a risk of electric shock.
Natural methods to enhance the effectiveness of UV insecticidal lamps
If we have even a small space in front of or inside the building, there is a simple way to enhance the effectiveness of indoor or outdoor insecticidal lamps against mosquitoes. Simply plant a few specially selected species of plants to repel unwanted guests.
Geranium and long-leaved mint have a repellent effect on mosquitoes. On the other hand, yarrow radiates a scent that repels mosquitoes. Marigold extract is very often used in popular repellents. Scientific studies have also shown the very strong effect of catnip, which is compared in terms of strength to multiplied N, N-Diethyl-m-toluamide, known otherwise as DEET.
How to choose an insect lamp?
Wherever we deal with food - whether it is stored or prepared - we should remember about necessary standards. It is especially worth paying attention to the HACCP certificate and the EU RoHs directive, which indicate the usefulness of the solution, among others, in commercial facilities.
Many supermarkets offer insect lamps. However, Obi, Castorama and other well-known brands often sell universal solutions, and therefore not very effective.
To choose the right product that will meet our needs, we need to consider a few things. First of all, this is the range of the lamp, type of light source, waterproof class, and type of available power.
Especially the last two features are important if we are looking for a model that will work in the garden or on the terrace.
Say goodbye once and for all to insects
In our store, we offer various solutions that will work in a small restaurant, single-family home, as well as a large industrial facility with high safety standards. We sell not only lamps but also consumables such as power inserts and UV tubes. We will gladly advise you on products that will be tailored to your needs.
We mainly offer products from the renowned brand Insect-O-Cutor - the world's leading manufacturer of insecticidal lamps.
Annoying buzzing at night? Complaints from customers in your establishment? With OLE.pl, this won't happen again.