Hello

Your subscription is almost coming to an end. Don’t miss out on the great content on Nation.Africa

Ready to continue your informative journey with us?

Hello

Your premium access has ended, but the best of Nation.Africa is still within reach. Renew now to unlock exclusive stories and in-depth features.

Reclaim your full access. Click below to renew.

Thermacell mosquito repellent

Thermacell Portable Mosquito Repeller.  PHOTO/ Thermacell

What you need to know:

Operating a thermacell device is remarkably simple and straightforward. Each model, despite its unique features, follows to the same easy steps.

If mosquitoes are winning the battle in your home, perhaps it’s time to consider a Thermacell mosquito repellent. The Thermacell Mosquito Repellent line of devices provide a new and interesting way to protect your family from mosquitos. Using the same concept as a citronella candle, this product heats and evaporates a more-powerful synthetic insect repellent to disperse mosquitoes and other biting insects. 

Thermacell devices, powered either by fuel or battery, harness heat to activate a mat soaked in repellent, providing coverage of at least 15 feet. These devices operate continuously, reaching full effectiveness within 15 minutes, with noticeable results in just minutes.

Why repellents

One of the greatest advantages of using insect repellents, whether they are chemically manufactured or organic, is the flexibility they offer. If mosquitoes are particularly bothersome at certain times of day, you have the convenience of applying a spray to the affected area and returning later to find it mosquito-free.

For individuals with allergies to insecticides or sensitive skin that reacts to creams and gels, there’s always the option to rely on bednets and Insecticide-Treated Nets (ITNs). These provide a protective barrier against insects without exposing you to allergens that could potentially lead to other health issues.

One notable advantage of the Thermacell device over other similar products is its exceptional ease of use and reliability. While many alternatives require frequent reapplication or may involve complex setups, Thermacell operates silently and effectively with minimal maintenance. Its technology creates a wide protection zone without the need for direct skin contact or the application of potentially irritating chemicals, offering a convenient and hassle-free solution to mosquito and insect control.

The Thermacell device also uses Allethrin, a natural mosquito repellent that is scent-free and non-toxic to humans. Unlike traditional insect repellents that may contain harsh chemicals like DEET, Allethrin poses minimal risk of skin irritation or allergic reactions.

This makes Thermacell a safer choice for individuals with sensitive skin or those concerned about chemical exposure, providing effective mosquito protection without compromising on health or comfort.

Efficiency

Thermacell stands out not only for its enhanced efficacy over conventional sprays but also for its commitment to minimising exposure to harmful chemicals. Offering a compelling alternative to DEET, Thermacell effectively reduces the risk of mosquito-borne diseases by leveraging Allethrin, a potent natural repellent derived from extensive research on plants toxic to mosquitoes.

This ingredient, being scent-free and non-toxic to humans, underscores Thermacell’s dedication to providing safe and efficient protection.

Central to Thermacell’s effectiveness is its Allethrin-infused mat, activated by either a fuel cartridge or lithium-ion battery. Upon heating, the mat disperses repellent into the air, establishing a broad 15-foot zone free from mosquitoes and other insects.

The replaceable mats ensure continuous coverage, with each lasting up to four hours, while the durable cartridges provide up to 12 hours of operation. Beyond its functionality, Thermacell devices are celebrated for their user-friendly design.

Changing mats or cartridges is intuitively simple; when the vibrant blue of the mat transitions to white, replacing it involves sliding a fresh mat beneath the grill and activating the device. An illuminated orange light confirms operational status, complemented by a transparent window for monitoring fuel levels.

Swapping out cartridges is effortless, requiring only a straightforward twist-and-pull action. Compact and portable, Thermacell products are tailored for ease of use during travel and outdoor adventures.

 By seamlessly integrating advanced repellent technology with user-friendly features, Thermacell ensures hassle-free mosquito protection wherever it is needed most.

The Thermacell device is also perfect for use on decks, patios, or other areas where you will be sitting. Just place it on the ground, hang it from railings, or set it on a table and you can enjoy your evening without being bitten by mosquitoes.

Cost

Actual Thermacell Mosquito Repellent Devices cost anywhere from $24.99 to $49.99, depending on the model, colour, and options that you select. Refills are sold in bundle packs with 12 hours of butane and repellent mats (three mats that each last four hours) for $7.99.

There are several models of the Thermacell Portable Mosquito Repeller, which is the reason for the price differential. You can shop the Thermacell MR300 directly on Thermacell’s website as well as on Amazon.

Thermacell refills

There are two refills designed for the Thermacell mosquito repellents. For fuel-powered Thermacell products, like the MR300 or Halo, fuel and mat refills are required to operate the product.

 Repellent mats last for four hours and the fuel cartridge life is about 12 hours. The Radius Zone, which is a battery-powered Thermacell product, utilizes refills instead of mats. One refill lasts for 40 hours.

Because it is battery-powered, the Radius Zone does not require fuel cartridge refills and instead must be charged every six to seven hours.

Safety

You might be worried that a product designed to repel and even kill mosquitos might have some negative effects on humans and pets.

 But you need not worry, because allethrin, the active ingredient in Thermacell, is classified as a non-persistent insecticide, meaning it breaks down relatively quickly in the environment. It does not leave any residue in the environment where it is operated, but Thermacell should always be used in a well-ventilated area.

The Thermacell product should be kept away from food and food preparation areas though, to prevent direct ingestion of the ingredient. It is worth noting that Allethrin is highly toxic to cats, so those considering who have them might want to opt for another mosquito repellent.