Electrically powered insect zappers and traps operate using different mechanisms, but their main goal is to attract, trap, and kill insects using electricity. These devices are commonly used to control flying insects like mosquitoes, flies, and moths in outdoor and indoor environments. Here's how they generally work:
1. Electric Insect Zappers:
Electric insect zappers are designed to attract flying insects using ultraviolet (UV) light and then kill them with an electric shock. The main components of an electric insect zapper include:
UV Light Source: Electric zappers typically use UV light bulbs or LEDs that emit ultraviolet light. Many flying insects are attracted to UV light because it simulates the light emitted by flowers, which they are naturally drawn to.
Electrified Grid: Surrounding the UV light source, there is an electrified grid made of metal wires or plates. This grid is charged with a high voltage, typically ranging from 2000 to 4000 volts.
Attraction and Impact: Insects are attracted to the UV light and fly towards the zapper. When they come into contact with the electrified grid, they complete an electrical circuit, and the high voltage electric shock kills them instantly.
2. Insect Traps:
Insect traps are designed to attract and trap insects without necessarily killing them through electricity. These traps are particularly useful in indoor environments where the presence of dead insects may be undesirable. Here's how they typically work:
Attractants: Insect traps use various attractants such as UV light, pheromones, heat, carbon dioxide, and sometimes even specific scents to lure insects.
Trapping Mechanism: Once attracted, insects are lured into the trap through a funnel or entryway. The trapping mechanism can vary widely. Some traps use adhesive surfaces or sticky boards to capture insects upon contact. Others use fans to suck insects into a containment area.
Capture and Disposal: Once trapped, the insects are unable to escape from the adhesive or containment area. Depending on the design of the trap, they can either die inside or be collected alive for later release.
Both electric insect zappers and traps can be effective in controlling insect populations, but they have their pros and cons. Zappers might be more suitable for outdoor use where the presence of dead insects is less of an issue, while traps are often used indoors or in situations where insect carcasses are undesirable. It's important to note that these devices can impact non-target insects and the surrounding ecosystem, so their use should be considered carefully, especially in sensitive environments.