It’s summertime, and the living is supposed to be easy, but mosquitoes can make it unbearable. If you want to keep your outdoor space mosquito-free and reduce the risk of mosquito-borne diseases, consider using a mosquito misting system. This guide will help you determine if a mosquito misting system is right for you.
What is a Mosquito Misting System?
Mosquito misting systems are designed to spray a fine mist of insecticide around outdoor areas, such as backyards, patios, and swimming pools. The mist settles onto surfaces where mosquitoes and other pests (like no-see-ums, gnats, and flies) are known to rest, killing them on contact and providing ongoing protection.
Why Consider a Mosquito Misting System
Mosquito misting systems are becoming more popular as mosquito-borne diseases increase. These diseases can be life-threatening and pose a significant risk to public health. Examples of such diseases include:
- West Nile virus: Although most people do not experience any symptoms, this virus can cause symptoms similar to the flu and, in severe cases, can lead to meningitis or encephalitis.
- Zika virus: Symptoms of this virus include fever, rash, and muscle or joint pain, but if contracted by a pregnant woman, it can lead to birth defects.
- Dengue fever: A virus that causes severe flu-like symptoms. Sometimes, it can lead to a life-threatening condition called dengue hemorrhagic fever.
- Malaria: This disease is caused by parasites and can lead to fever, chills, and flu-like symptoms. If left untreated, it can be fatal.
- Chikungunya: The symptoms of this disease include fever and joint pain. The joint pain may last for a few months and be disabling during this time.
How Mosquito Misting Systems Work
Mosquito misting systems consist of nozzles around your property, like along the fence or eaves of your home, connected to a central reservoir of insecticide and a water source. The formula is diluted with water and released as mist at predetermined times or on demand through a remote control or smartphone app.
Active Ingredients
Misting systems use two types of formulas: standard and minimum-risk pesticides. Standard formulas require registration with the US EPA, while minimum-risk pesticides are not regulated by the EPA but are regulated at the state level. Check your state regulatory agency for restrictions and laws in your area.
Standard Mosquito Misting Formulas
Misting solutions use insecticides such as pyrethrin, permethrin, and sometimes piperonyl butoxide. These chemicals kill mosquitoes and other flying insects by attacking their nervous systems. They often include insect repellants to reduce incoming mosquitos, but they can also harm beneficial insects like bees and butterflies.
- Pyrethrins: These insecticides are derived from chrysanthemum blossoms and are toxic to insects. Pyrethrins are used to control various pests, including mosquitoes, moths, flies, fleas, and ants.
- Permethrin (a pyrethroid insecticide): This synthetic chemical is modeled after pyrethrin and is widely used as an insecticide. It is known for its ability to repel mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, and other insects. Permethrin works by disrupting the nervous system of insects, causing paralysis and death.
- Piperonyl butoxide: This chemical is sometimes added to increase the effectiveness of insecticides like pyrethrin and permethrin. Piperonyl butoxide is often found in lice shampoos.
Minimum-Risk Pesticides
Mosquito misting systems can use minimum-risk or “green” pesticides. However, the EPA has not evaluated their potential risk or effectiveness in misting systems. Nevertheless, they are regulated at the state level. Before using any pesticide, check with your state agency for requirements or warnings.
- Essential oils: Peppermint, lemongrass, citronella, and cedar oils are natural alternatives to synthetic pyrethroids and are included in many mosquito control products.
- Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS): This chemical is a surfactant that helps the insecticide adhere to surfaces, improving its effectiveness. Sodium lauryl sulfate is a common ingredient in cleaning products and soaps.
What to Consider in a Mosquito Misting System
When choosing a mosquito misting system, think about the type of system, controls, property size, and your specific needs. Research and select a system that offers the necessary protection and fits your budget and lifestyle.
Types of Mosquito Misting Systems
There are two primary types of mosquito misting systems: tankless and drum-based. In both systems, the misting concentrate is mixed with water to dilute it into a spray. Here are some examples of both types and their features.
- Tankless mosquito misting systems: These systems connect directly to a water source, eliminating the need for a water tank. They are designed for smaller properties and are easier to maintain than drum-based mosquito misting systems.
- Drum-based mosquito misting systems: This type of system has a water tank and the insecticide is held in a large drum and dispersed through spray nozzles. Drum-based systems are suitable for large properties and can be expensive.
System Controls
When choosing a mosquito misting system, you have a choice in the level of control you want over the system. Some systems offer only one option, while others provide a variety. The most popular control options include:
- Remote control mosquito misting systems: These systems allow you to activate the misting system remotely, making them convenient to operate.
- Automatic mosquito misting systems: Automatic systems are programmed to spray at preset intervals or times of day when mosquitoes are most active. Some systems have sensors that detect when mosquitoes are present and adjust the spraying frequency accordingly.
- Smartphone app-controlled mosquito misting systems: With these systems, you can control your mosquito misting system from your smartphone, making it easy to set schedules and adjust settings.
Coverage Area
To choose a mosquito misting system, consider the size of your property and how much area you need the system to cover. Most systems are customized to your outdoor space. Coverage areas are typically measured in 10-foot lengths, with some systems capable of covering 14,000 square feet.
Maintenance
Just like any other outdoor equipment, mosquito misting systems need regular maintenance to work correctly. Some systems may have routine maintenance done by the pest control company that installed them, while others need the homeowner to do the upkeep.
To maintain a mosquito misting system, you may need to:
- Replace filters
- Check for leaks and drips
- Inspect for clogs and clean nozzles
- Refill insecticide
- Winterize the system
Photo Credit: ruksil / Canva Pro / License
Cost
The device’s price and the costs related to installation, maintenance, and insecticide refills are significant factors in the price. In the U.S., installation averages $2,740, but the total cost depends on factors such as:
- System type and brand
- Insecticide used
- Water storage method
- Number of nozzles
- Labor rates (if professionally installed)
Pro Installation vs. DIY Mosquito Misting Systems
When licensed pest control professionals install mosquito misters, they assess your property and recommend the best mosquito system based on your needs and budget. A technician will also install the system, maintain it, and refill the insecticide as needed.
DIY mosquito misting systems are designed for installation and maintenance by homeowners, which can save a lot of money compared to hiring a professional. However, they require more upkeep, and you’ll have to find the pesticide that works in your system and is allowed in your state.
Pros and Cons of a Mosquito Misting System
Mosquito misting systems are convenient for controlling mosquito populations in areas like patios or yards. However, there are concerns about the environmental impact of the chemicals used, questions about the effectiveness of “green” formulas, and potential health risks associated with pyrethrins and pyrethroids.
Consider these pros and cons of a mosquito misting system before you make a decision on what is best for your yard.
Pros of a Mosquito Misting System
✅ Significantly reduces the number of mosquitoes and other biting insects
✅ Easy to operate as an automatic or remotely controlled system
✅ Targeted application to specific areas
✅ Consistent insecticide application with automated systems
Cons of a Mosquito Misting System
❌ Not a good long-term solution for mosquito control in your yard
❌ Shouldn’t be used as your first or only strategy to reduce mosquito populations (Remove breeding sites and use larvicides as a first step.)
❌ Timed-release sprays can harm beneficial insects due to drift.
❌ Overuse of timed-release sprays can increase pesticide resistance in mosquitoes.
❌ There is a risk of pesticide exposure to people and pets.
Alternative Mosquito Control Methods
The best way to avoid mosquito-borne illnesses is to prevent mosquito bites and take proactive steps to reduce their population. If a mosquito misting system does not seem right for you, there are alternative mosquito control methods you can try:
- Apply mosquito repellent: To protect yourself from mosquitoes, apply a mosquito repellent registered with the EPA to your skin or clothing. If you’d rather not use a standard repellent, try a natural mosquito repellent instead.
- Set up mosquito traps: Mosquito traps use attractants like carbon dioxide and heat to lure mosquitoes. Once the mosquitoes are drawn in, they are trapped and killed. You can buy them at garden centers or make your own DIY mosquito trap.
- Install mosquito netting: Covering outdoor spaces and around sleeping areas with mosquito nets can effectively keep mosquitoes out.
- Remove standing water: Mosquitoes breed in standing water, so it is essential to remove sources of standing water, such as flower pots and old tires. Regularly clean your gutters to prevent water buildup and help reduce mosquito populations.
- Use a larvicide: Add larvicides, such as mosquito dunks, to standing water that cannot be removed, such as the water in rain barrels or ponds, to prevent mosquito larvae from developing into adult mosquitoes.
- Natural predators: You can reduce mosquito populations by adding mosquitofish to ponds to eat larvae or putting up birdhouses in your yard to attract mosquito-eating birds.
- Landscaping chores: Keep up with regular lawn maintenance. Mow tall grass and trim bushes to reduce breeding sites and hiding places for mosquitoes.
- Mosquito yard sprays and foggers: Mosquito yard sprays and foggers release insecticide in outdoor areas, similar to mosquito misting systems. However, they are used as needed and are generally less expensive.
Mosquito yard sprays are applied with a garden hose attachment or handheld pump sprayer. To treat a large area, homeowners and pest control companies may use mosquito foggers, which usually require a power source.
FAQ: Mosquito Misting Systems
You may need to run the mosquito misting system daily during peak mosquito season. The frequency of use will vary based on the system, insecticide, and mosquito population. Consult your manual or mosquito system installer for the best schedule and settings.
No, mosquito misting systems are intended for outdoor use only. The insecticide sprayed by these systems can harm people and pets if inhaled or accidentally ingested, so it should not be used indoors.
On average, a well-maintained mosquito misting system can last up to 10 years. The lifespan of a system depends on factors such as the type of system, the quality of installation, and the level of maintenance. Regular inspections and maintenance can extend the lifespan of your system.
When to Call a Pro
Mosquito misting systems are an effective way to control mosquitoes and other biting insects in your yard. Before investing in one, however, it’s essential to do your research and consider all factors.
You can enjoy more time in your outdoor space with the right system. Pest Gnome can help you connect with your area’s best pest control professionals for expert mosquito control.
Sources:
The American Mosquito Control Association – Position on Misting Systems
Iowa State University Extension – Spraying for Mosquitoes in the Backyard
Illinois Department of Public Health – FAQs: Spraying for Adult Mosquitoes
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension – Do-It-Yourself Backyard Mosquito Control
Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station – Chemical Control of Mosquitoes
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Mosquito-Borne Diseases
University of Missouri Extension – Pesticide Poisoning Symptoms and First Aid
Home Advisor – Cost of Mosquito Misting System
Main Image Credit: EPA
