SkeeterVac vs Mosquito Magnet
Keeping our outdoor spaces free from mosquitos is a perennial challenge, especially during warm summer months. Two products have emerged as leaders in this battle: SkeeterVac and Mosquito Magnet. Both these devices aim to eliminate mosquitos and other biting insects effectively, but they do so in slightly different ways. Let’s examine each one in detail.
Mosquito Magnet Vs SkeeterVac Table
So, which one is the best? Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of each to see which one comes out on top!
Skeetervac | Mosquito Magnet |
 |  |
Model SkeeterVac | Model Mosquito Magnet |
Coverage Area 1 Acre | Covers 1 Acre of Property |
Has Sticky Paper For Catch Method | Has Catch Net For Catch Method |
Skeetervac Is Quiet, Odorless, Child-Safe | Propane Required For This Product |
Runs On Propane Only | Can Run On Battery Power |
Use Convert Propane to CO2, Heat, and Moisture to Attract Pesky Mosquitoes | Combines Heat, Moisture, CO2 and Secondary Attractants to Lure Mosquitoes |
It Traps and Kills Mosquitoes, Black Flies, No-See-Ums, Biting Midges and Sand Flies | Mosquito Magnet Traps and Kills Mosquitoes, No-See-Ums, Midges, Black Flies, Gnats |
Designed to Diminish Your Mosquito Population Within 30 Days | Within 7 to 10 Days You Should See Noticeable Results Using This |
Mode Of Action
Both SkeeterVac and Mosquito Magnet utilize a chemical process to convert propane into CO2, heat, and moisture. This is the main attractant for mosquitoes as it mimics the exhale of a human.
The conversion process also generates a small amount of electricity which is used to power an internal fan. This fan creates suction that helps in drawing the mosquitoes toward the trap.
Use of Octenol or Lurex
Octenol and Lurex are used by these devices to mimic human breath and sweat, acting as powerful lures for mosquitoes. SkeeterVac stands out with its adjustable octenol output feature, which allows for tailoring the device’s effectiveness based on the breed of mosquitoes in the area. Both systems start working immediately and show noticeable results within 7 to 10 days, breaking the mosquito breeding cycle.
Pricing
Both brands offer a range of models with different features and coverage, and the prices reflect this. Mosquito Magnet tends to be more expensive than SkeeterVac.
However, consumers may consider this justified due to the unique features that Mosquito Magnet models offer, such as the patented CounterFlow Technology.
Visual Attractants
Mosquitoes are drawn not just to scent and heat but also to specific colors. The black and white color scheme of SkeeterVac and the green and tan of Mosquito Magnet is designed to attract mosquitoes visually.
Trapping Mechanisms
SkeeterVac uses a dual method of trapping mosquitoes: vacuum suction and a Tac Trap, which is sticky paper around the motor. The Mosquito Magnet models, on the other hand, rely on a bug bag or a bug container to trap mosquitoes.
Additional Mechanisms
The SkeeterVac models have LED lights that emit infrared light to simulate motion and attract mosquitoes. Mosquito Magnet employs a patented CounterFlow Technology to distribute the attractive combination of CO2, octanol, heat, and moisture more effectively.
Effectiveness
Mosquito Magnet traps are lauded for their user-friendliness and quick start-up time. They are specifically designed for outdoor use and start working immediately upon setup.
SkeeterVac, with its adjustable octenol output, offers a degree of customization, which may result in more effective mosquito control for specific species or situations.
Coverage
Both SkeeterVac and Mosquito Magnet offer models capable of providing protection for large areas. Some units can effectively cover up to 1 acre or more, making them suitable for large backyards or outdoor venues.
User feedback for both brands indicates effective mosquito population reduction, providing an improved outdoor environment free from these pests.
Power Source
Mosquito Magnet Patriot Plus is a plug-in unit with a 50-foot power cord. In contrast, the SkeeterVac SV3100 is a cordless unit that generates its own power by converting propane into electricity using a catalytic converter.
Our Observation
Our assessment indicates the Mosquito Magnet Patriot Plus as the superior product. Its Counterflow Technology efficiently mimics human breath, thereby attracting a higher number of mosquitoes. This has been validated in numerous research studies, with the trap capturing significantly more mosquitoes than other brands.
The Patriot Plus is further distinguished by its ability to start working immediately, showing results within 7 to 10 days, offering coverage up to an acre, and ensuring user convenience with a plug-and-play mechanism. While the SkeeterVac SV3100 is a worthy contender with its CO2 output and cordless design, it lacks the Mosquito Magnet’s consistent performance and independent endorsements, placing it second in our ranking.
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James E. Butkovich, Pest control maven with a knack for eco-friendly & Chemical solutions. Blogger with a mission to make homes pest-free, one post at a time.