A quick Internet search yields many do-it-yourself mosquito control ideas, and one of the most common tips is to use a fan to keep them away. But will a fan really keep mosquitoes from attacking? Read on to get the facts on this prevention strategy.
Do fans keep mosquitoes away?
Research indicates that increasing airflow can sometimes help to deter mosquitoes. Although the pests can fly fairly well, their wings aren’t strong enough to counteract the air speed of a fan set at sufficient level. So, using outdoor fans for mosquitoes may be somewhat effective at keeping them away from you.
Do ceiling fans keep mosquitoes away?
Typically, ceiling fans don’t have a big enough impact on airflow to be effective for mosquito control. Better options are box fans, oscillating fans, and tower fans that rest on the ground or a surface like a tabletop. Their stronger, more focused airflow could serve as an efficient way to keep mosquitoes at bay.
What size fan do I need to keep mosquitoes away?
There are no scientifically precise studies to determine exactly how much you need to increase airflow to interfere with mosquitoes’ ability to fly. Since there aren’t any universally established guidelines yet, it can be difficult to know which is the best type of fan to keep mosquitoes away.
Generally, the faster and stronger the fan is, the more likely it is to be effective. Manufacturers use CFM or cubic feet per minute to represent the speeds of their fans.
When comparing outdoor mosquito fans, higher CFMs are those that have higher airflow. As a good rule of thumb, if you can’t feel the fan blowing on you throughout your outdoor living space, it’s unlikely that the device will be effective at controlling mosquitoes.
Can mosquitoes fly under fans?
Depending on the placement and style of the fan, mosquitoes may be able to fly under it. For example, if you place a box fan on a table, the pests could fly beneath it and potentially bite your legs. Simply put, although a mosquito fan outdoors can lower the likelihood of bites, it can’t completely prevent them.
How do I keep mosquitoes off my patio?
Combining an outdoor fan with other mosquito prevention methods can increase the effectiveness of your pest control efforts. Here are some things that can help keep the pests away from your patio or other outdoor living space.
Deal with standing water
Female mosquitoes search for standing water to lay their eggs in or near, so anything on your property that collects water could attract the pests. Remove empty pots, planters, barrels, and other containers, or turn them upside down when unused. Get rid of tree stumps and fallen trees that could become waterlogged. Improve drainage in your yard to eliminate wet spots.
Maintain your lawn and landscaping
Mosquitoes seek cool places to nest and may set up their homes beneath leaves under bushes, tall grass, and other areas. By mowing your lawn regularly and trimming your landscaping, you can reduce the number of attractive nesting sites for mosquitoes.
Clean your gutters regularly
When gutters become clogged with leaves and debris, water can back up and create wet conditions that attract mosquitoes. Make seasonal gutter cleaning part of your regular home maintenance routine. You can also install guards to keep your gutters unclogged between cleanings.
Use mosquito nets
Mosquito nets are a type of fabric netting that acts as a barrier to the flying pests. By enclosing your outdoor living space with netting, you can help keep the pests away. Just be sure to install the netting so there are no gaps or holes for mosquitoes to sneak through. Also, keep furniture away from the nets so you’re not pressed up against them, as mosquitoes can still bite you through them.
Call a professional pest control company
Enlisting the help of a professional pest control company is the best way to reduce your risk of mosquito bites when spending time outdoors. Professionals use proven treatments to address infestations and provide tips on improving your outdoor living space and yard to deter mosquitoes.
Pest control services
If you’re concerned about mosquitoes, give Hawx Pest Control a call. Our licensed pest control technicians can conduct a mosquito inspection and identify potential breeding and nesting sites. They will use state-of-the-art technologies and high-quality products to treat these areas in order to help prevent or eliminate mosquitoes. You can also count on our knowledgeable technicians to share mosquito prevention strategies and recommend a maintenance treatment plan for your property as needed.
