What is an Electric Bug Zapper?

How Does an Electric Bug Zapper Work?

Most flying insects are attracted to ultraviolet light as they find it easier to detect than visible light, so this is a common component of all electric fly killers.

As the insect flies towards the light, it reaches the small gap between two electrically-charged wire mesh grids and completes the circuit.

Next, you'll hear a 'zap' as an electric current flows through the insect and vaporises it. The insect husks can then be disposed of hygienically via a catchment tray.

Alternatively, you can use an electric glue board fly killer. Instead of zapping the insect, it is caught and immobilised by the sticky surface instead.

• Effective: kills in an instant.
• Mess-free: dead insect debris drops into an easy-clean collection tray.
• Low maintenance: aside from the occasional bulb change and cleaning, electric fly zappers take very little maintenance.

TIP: Particularly large or stubborn insects may take more than one zap to kill. In addition, not all insects are attracted to ultra-violet light. Just like humans, some flies can be colour blind too!

Where to Put Your Electric Bug Zapper

Coverage

Every electric fly killer will have a coverage rating, usually given in square metres. This is the maximum room area that the bug zapper can operate effectively in. If your room area exceeds the maximum coverage area, you may need more than one fly killer to ensure adequate coverage.

To get maximum coverage, your bug zapper must be positioned in the centre of the room. If it is positioned against a wall, the coverage area is effectively halved. Consider where you will position your unit before purchase.

Where Should I Put My Bug Zapper?

• Not visible from outside: The majority of insects come in from outside, so it’s important your fly killer doesn’t entice even more bugs in. Make sure it’s not directly facing doors, windows or even mirrors which face outside.
• Height: The average flying height of insects is around 5 to 8 feet (1.5-2.5 metres). Positioning the unit at this height maximises its effectiveness.
• Not above food prep or dining areas: depending on the size or type of insect, some may ‘explode’ on impact. This is called blow out. As such, its important fly killers aren’t positioned anywhere insect debris could fall into food.
• Away from other light sources: as insects are attracted to bright lights, fly killers can be less effective if they are competing with other light sources.
• Above doors: The ideal position for your fly killer should be between the most likely point of entry and the food. Therefore, just inside and above doors is common, as insects are lured away from prep areas without being enticed into the building.

TIP: A chain door fly screen can be a great first line of defence against flying insects. If you do need to leave kitchen doors open, these allow fresh air in while keeping most flying bugs out.

Bug Zapper Hints and Tips

The effectiveness of your bug zapper depends on its surrounding environment and coverage. However, there are more ways to maximise its performance and reduce the number of flies or other unwanted guests in your premises.

• Move your waste away from the kitchen: Any leftover food, even trace amounts found on packaging, may be attracting flies. If possible, try to keep your bins well away from any meal prep areas.
• Minimise waste: Efficient waste management is vital. Less food waste means fewer flies. Make sure you use commercial grade bin bags and tie them tightly to hide food waste and trash from pests. Make sure to put filled bags straight into outside rubbish bins. If your outside bins don't close tightly, get them repaired.
• Keep it clean: An effective cleaning schedule will make your space less attractive to flies. This should include all your equipment, paying attention to the spaces underneath and behind your cooking equipment. Using professional cleaning supplies also helps to reduce the likelihood of other pests such as rats and mice.

Tip: Find a list of recommended commercial kitchen cleaning procedures in our Ultimate Kitchen Cleaning Guide.