Mosquito Eradication Ensured by Thermacell EL55 Portable Repeller
Welcome, fellow mosquito haters! If you're tired of being bit and itchy while enjoying the great outdoors, you're not alone. Living in Colorado may not pose significant mosquito problems, but don't let that fool you. Camping in the spring can still leave you as a tasty buffet for these bloodsucking creatures. And let's face it, being eaten alive while you're trying to enjoy nature isn't fun.
That's where the Thermacell EL55 comes into play. This compact device is a game-changer for creating a mosquito-free bubble, so you can soak up the fresh air without worrying about pesky bites.
What Makes the Thermacell EL55 Stand Out?
First things first, the Thermacell actually works! During multiple camping trips and park hangouts, I've found it to be quite effective at keeping mosquitoes at bay. However, it's important to note that it repels mosquitoes rather than all bugs, so if you're dealing with biting flies or annoying gnats, you may still need regular bug spray.
But when it comes to mosquitoes, the Thermacell shines. By heating a cartridge filled with a mosquito repellent, a gentle spray is released into the air, creating a protective cloud with a 1-foot radius. The active ingredient in the repellent is metofluthrin, which has been proven safe for use around humans and dogs. (Cats, however, may be sensitive to pyrethroids, including metofluthrin, so indoor or confined use should be avoided.)
Use is a breeze. All you have to do is find a flat surface to rest it on, then press the center button. The device will warm up, indicated by flashing lights around the button, and once it starts releasing repellent, the lights will turn solid. A 20-foot mosquito-free zone can take up to 15 minutes to fully establish. The battery life is impressive, with the EL55 able to release repellent for a whopping nine hours, though this drops to around five and a half hours when the light is turned on.
The EL55 offers an added bonus with its integrated light, making it a versatile option for camping or even backyard gatherings. It's not quite as feature-packed as the best camping lanterns, but its light still illuminates a picnic table at a campsite or the inside of a tent. And, since you can use the features separately or together, it's a great space-saver for your camping checklist.
The Drawbacks
Despite its strengths, the Thermacell EL55 isn't without its flaws. Portability is an issue, as there's no way to lock the device to prevent it from accidentally turning on in transit. I once drained an entire cartridge by simply tossing it in my campbox; imagine my surprise when I arrived at the campsite and found my gear covered in repellent! (I've since learned to store the device more carefully.)
Another downside is the cost of the refills. While the upfront cost of the device is reasonable, replacements are pricier than traditional bug sprays. A 12-hour cartridge costs $20 for 36 more hours, or $55 for a three-pack providing 120 hours of protection. The frequency of buying refills depends on how often you use the device, but if you're relying on it heavily during the summer, the cost may add up.
Regardless, if you're fed up with mosquitoes and eager to enjoy the outdoors without pesky bites, the Thermacell EL55 is worth considering. Its effectiveness, portability, and versatility make it an excellent addition to any camper's gear. Just don't forget to pack it carefully, and keep an eye on those refill costs!
For those who love outdoor-living and home-and-garden activities, the Thermacell EL55 Mosquito Repeller is an ideal tool for maintaining an enjoyable lifestyle, especially during spring camping trips or backyard gatherings, where mosquitoes might intrude. This device, with its integrated light, also lends itself to sports enthusiasts who enjoy playing outdoor games after sunset, providing a mosquito-free environment for uninterrupted fun.
