There are several popular mosquito traps on the market that use carbon dioxide to attract pests. And the high-performance Mosquito Magnet models are among them. We have reviewed the two most efficient Mosquito Magnet traps — the Executive and the Patriot Plus — to find out their strengths and weaknesses. In addition, we have made a comparative review of other brands at this price bracket: Flowtron, Biteshield, and Rhino.
Mosquito Magnet traps work by releasing a continuous stream of carbon dioxide (CO2) to attract mosquitoes and many other pests. A combination of the excess moisture, heat, and CO2 mimics the human breath that mosquitoes cannot resist. The device uses patented CounterFlow technology to effectively suck insects into a net where they are killed by dehydration.
What is the best Mosquito Magnet Trap? The Mosquito Magnet MM3300B Executive Mosquito Trap protects an area of up to one acre.
How Does the Mosquito Magnet Work?
If you’ve seen one of these bulky Mosquito Magnet machines before, you probably didn’t know how it actually worked. Chances are, you’ve seen a Mosquito Magnet on someone’s lawn and had no clue what it was.
Although they have an intimidating appearance, Mosquito Magnets simply work by releasing a continuous stream of carbon dioxide that attracts a huge range of biting insects.
All together, the excess moisture, heat, and carbon dioxide produced approximates the human breath that mosquitoes love. Using patented CounterFlow technology, insects are instantly vacuumed into a powerful net where they dehydrate and die.
In contrast with sprays and citronella candles, Mosquito Magnets are designed to substantially reduce the mosquito population on large properties up to one acre in size.
These products primarily work by interrupting the regular breeding cycles of biting insects – within five days, you’ll notice a huge difference in your yard. Just one machine (and a few propane tanks) will cover you and your neighbors’ property all season.
What Models Are Out There?
There are three primary models of Mosquito Magnet: the 3300 Executive, the Independence (MM3200), and the Patriot Plus (MM4200).
Out of all three, the Executive is the most pricey but boasts the most features. The completely cordless machine is continuously powered by an efficient battery cell and can be placed anywhere on the yard.
By contrast, the Patriot Plus needs to be plugged in with an extension cord, but it the least expensive of the three options.
Why Is Mosquito Magnet So Popular?
With a somewhat tricky set-up and big price tag, many are curious as to why are so popular.
Yet until you’ve been eaten alive out on the bayou in mid-summer, you probably have no idea just how impactful a biting insect problem can be. If mosquitoes completely inhibit your ability to enjoy the outdoors, you need to find a solution more fail-proof than simple sprays, zappers, and smelly candles.
Mosquito Magnets create a substantial difference within under a week, making it possible for those most affected by mosquitoes to enjoy their backyard again.
Mosquito Magnet Reviews
Below, you will find a review of the most popular Mosquito Magnet traps at a price ranging from $370 to $700. The Executive model covers an area of up to 1 acre and has an energy-efficient design. The other model, the Patriot Plus trap, is a less expensive option. The advantage if this model is a larger net for better safe utility and maximized airflow.
1. Mosquito Magnet MM3300B Executive Trap
Bombarded with biting insects like black flies, no-see-ums, and midges? This patented catalytic converter mosquito magnet has got you covered.
Through seamlessly converting propane into carbon dioxide, this magnet simulates the heat and moisture of human breath that attracts different insects. Unsuspecting bugs are quickly sucked into a sealed inner compartment.
When the unit is completely full, it’s super simple for you to swap out the nets for easy, contactless disposal. Ideal for yards up to one acre, the Executive Trap is prized for its effective, whisper-quiet operation.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Removes insects effectively from up to one acre of outdoors space
- Energy-efficient design means it can run continuously on one tank of propane for the whole summer season
- Features easy insect disposal method
Cons:
- Some complain the machine is difficult to set up at first
- Propane not included
Mosquito Magnet MM3300B: Check the current price
2. Mosquito Magnet MM4200B Patriot Plus Trap
Dead silent day and night, the Patriot emits a steady stream of carbon dioxide, heat, and moisture to attract all forms of biting insect. Covering up to one acre of outdoors space, the Patriot works as soon as its plugged and you’ll notice a substantial difference within days.
To break mosquitoes breeding cycles, it’s recommended that you keep the Patriot running continuously. Similar to the Executive, the Patriot features self-contained netting for easy disposal, a long power cord, and sturdy build.
The only major distinction between both models is that the Patriot features a bug catching view plate on the side of the unit rather than at the top.
In particular, customers appreciate the plug-and-play, zero assembly style of the Patriot. The self-contained, rigid inner net is larger than ever to increase the season-long performance of this mosquito magnet.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Features larger net for better safe utility and maximized airflow
- Easy to get up and running
- Powered through wall outlet – no special battery replacements are ever needed
Cons:
- Some complain that the Patriot needs more frequent propane refills
Mosquito Magnet MM4200B: Check the current price
How to Set Up and Use the Mosquito Magnet Properly
Most Mosquito Magnets aren’t too difficult to set up and get running right away. The product should arrive fully set up and you’ll simply need to properly insert the propane tank, plug the unit in, and flip the on switch to get it running.
During set up, you’ll want to make sure to turn on the propane tank valve very slowly and all the way to avoid electrical failure.
After the device is running, it could take thirty minutes for the machine to fully function.
From this point on, just keep the system running continuously in one shady spot away from tall grasses or debris that might accidentally get sucked in. Leave the machine on continuously throughout the summer season and replace the propane tank every three to four weeks.
Choosing the Right Attractant
In North America alone, there are over 170 different species of mosquitoes. In fact, every region has different types of mosquitoes that aren’t necessarily drawn in by the same attractants.
If you want to get the most effective use from your system, you’ll need to select the right attractant based on where you live. There are three major attractants used in the United States: octenol, r-octenol, and Lurex3.
Octenol mimics the alcohols produced in the human breath and sweat, which attracts most biting insects found in Northern United States and Canada.
R-Octenol mimics human breath and lasts about 40 percent longer than regular Octenol, though it’s mainly used to combat black flies and no-see-ums.
Lurex3 is very effective for attracting Asian tiger mosquitoes, a type of day-biting pest that carries West Nile Virus and heart worm. It’s recommended for those in Hawaii and the Southern US.
Review of Competing Products
Alternatively, you may try mosquito traps from other trusted brands — Flowtron, Biteshield, and Rhino. These products are available at a price of $300-$400.
3. Flowtron MT-125 Mosquito PowerTrap
Designed with safety and space-saving in mind, the Flowtron is surprisingly powerful for its size. Unlike the Mosquito Magnet, this PowerTrap emits a bright, constant LED light to attract bugs.
With no pesky nets, glue, or open flames, the FlowTron sucks insects in with a propane-powered vacuum similar to the Mosquito Magnet.
Customers appreciate the FlowTron since it doesn’t guzzle as much propane as traditional Mosquito Magnets do. For continuous use, the FlowTron usually lasts six weeks without needing a refill while Mosquito Magnets lasts three to four.
That said, it’s well-known that LED bug attraction is not as effective as carbon dioxide emissions. If your bug problem isn’t particularly severe and you’re operating on a tighter budget, the FlowTron is an excellent option.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Cost effective and fuel lasts longer without needing refill
- Doesn’t rely on open flames, nets, or glue to catch insects
- Doesn’t produce any sticky mess
Cons:
- Less immediately effective than the Mosquito Magnet
Flowtron: Check the current price
4. Biteshield Mosquito Trap Guardian
Similar to the Mosquito Magnet, the Biteshield uses all the proven attractants to trap mosquitoes and other biting insects. Constructed from durable, weather-resistant materials, the unit is designed to operate 24/7 in any condition.
To start safe ignition, you simply need to press a button. The nearly silent machine emits carbon dioxide to attract mosquitoes, before trapping and killing them in an internal basket.
In particular, customers like the Biteshield since it’s comparatively more lightweight and portable. The unit’s wheels can even lock down so that the system stays put all season.
In contrast with the Mosquito Magnet, some complain that the Biteshield motor dies after a few seasons and can be tricky to replace.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Less pricey than the Mosquito Magnet
- Easy assembly and simple push button starts ignition
- More lightweight and portable than the Mosquito Magnet
Cons:
- Motor dies frequently and can be difficult to replace
Biteshield: Check the current price
5. Blue Rhino SkeeterVac SV5100 Mosquito Eliminator
Covering more than one acre, the Blue Rhino SkeeterVac uses safe, electronic ignition to spark the propane tank and start attracting bugs.
This cordless, hazard-free product is easy to set up anywhere on your yard without any restrictions. Within minutes, you can assemble the Blue Rhino and watch it work.
Buyers should note that it could take up to fourteen days of continuous use to notice a substantial decline of mosquitoes on your property.
Compared to the Mosquito Magnet, the Blue Rhino uses propane more fuel-efficiently but will take nearly twice as much time to interrupt mosquito breeding cycles.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Very fuel efficient
- Assembles quickly
- Ignition is hazard-free due to compartmentalization of electronic components
Cons:
- Takes up to fourteen days to see noticeable results
Blue Rhino: Check the current price
1 thought on “Mosquito Magnet Review | Trap Comparison & Buyer’s Guide ”
Mosquito Magnet MM4100 Patriot catches allot of Mosquitoes day and night, Mosquitoes population in my yard has reduced dramatically. Dealing with the cord was worth the cheaper price. It is now very easy to set up and runs quietly. Every time we empty the net there are mosquitoes in it.