Maybe your bug zapper needs aren’t that demanding, or perhaps running a power cable to the right spot on your deck to an insect control device isn’t feasible.
Everybody wants to cut the cord for the sake of convenience, but only certain people should. For people that enjoy hosting backyard gatherings often, a bug zapper that protects the entire yard is a must. Many of us don’t need that and can improvise with Citronella torches when special occasions arise. If it’s that one spot you spend the most time at that matters, your deck or stone patio, for this purpose the Stinger by Kaz is ideal.
The Stinger covers 625 sq. ft., which is approximately 25×25 ft. It’s a modest specification, but if it’s all you need and the idea of battery power appeals to you, it might be worth the tradeoff. On full charge it runs 3.5 hours. This also limits its applications. It will protect you and company while sitting outside for an after-work brew, but you’ll want another product for an outdoor blast.
The unit charges and operates while plugged-in. In a pinch you won’t be out of luck if you run out of battery power as long as electrical outlet is nearby. Recharging time is three hours. The status light is red while charging and it switches to red when it’s ready.
There’s a switch with two settings: UV killing grid and lantern mode. When lantern mode is engaged two white LEDs light up. It’s more of a decorative light rather than the bright illumination you’d expect from a lantern. This is a unique feature that adds to its utility, and makes it even more attractive to campers.
To attract pests it uses NOsquito Mosquito Octenol Lure. It contains octenol to pull in and kill mosquitos and other annoying insects. Attractant is slowly released over the course of 30 days. So you’ll be replacing these each month at $7.50 a pop, which is a pretty standard cost for operation comparable with Flowtron and others.
Cleanup is a little trickier than you’d expect. If a bug hits the metal interior it will stick to that rather than drop down to the removable tray. It’s not a deal breaker, but it may be a good idea to dismantle it every blue moon to clean the unit thoroughly.
The Verdict
The Stinger is perfect for small gatherings and particularly campers who will appreciate its rechargeable capabilities and lantern mode. The unit only covers 625 sq. ft., which is just enough to protect an average deck or patio. Its strengths may be most apparent to those who have a larger unit and can use both units together or just one depending on what is needed that evening.