The Essential Guide to Finding the Best Bug Fogger + Reviews
In the following paragraph, we have gathered all the useful information to help you get the best bug fogger if you don’t have a lot of time on your hands to inspect all of the products in our list. After a careful examination of the quality and reliability offered by each model, we have concluded that the Petra Electric Fogger Atomizer is the one to get. It is a highly-powerful device that can cover your field, yard, crops, plants, and orchards with a fine fog in record time since it shoots the chemicals up to 10 feet. It comes with heavy-duty straps that allow you to carry up to 4 gallons of insecticide on your back comfortably. Furthermore, you can adjust the spray rate mid-use depending on how much protection each area requires. In the event that our first choice is unavailable, another good bug fogger that you can get is the Fountainhead/Burgess Prod Propane-Powered.
Comparison Table
1st Choice
The unit comes with an extra-long hose that lets users spray up high and down low. The hose is highly flexible and easy to maneuver so that you don’t ever leave a spot unsprayed. It is perfect for use with natural bug repellents as well as chemical solutions and it comes equipped with backpack straps for comfortable use.
Do keep in mind that this is an outdoor bug fogger intended to spray large surfaces. As such, it is quite heavy.
All in all, if you wish to get a product that can help you get rid of outdoor insects, this choice will help you cover a large area with trees and bushes.
2nd Best
With this model, you can cover an average of around 5,000 square feet of yard in under 10 minutes. It can fog shrubs, dense foliage and ground covers thoroughly to kill and repel mosquitoes and other biting flies. The product is very portable which means that you can take it with when traveling to enjoy a bug-free holiday.
Customers will need to light the heating coil using a match or lighter, and not everyone will feel comfortable with that.
This choice is affordable, easy to control, and has a portable design so that you can keep any area that gives you trouble free of bugs.
Also To Consider
The design and performance of this model are similar to those found in the systems that professionals use. It can kill and repel pests fast, and the heating element will propel the fog instantly once it reaches the adjusted power. This is an electric bug fogger which makes it easier for the user to operate.
There was a complaint that the unit broke after a few uses but the customer service was quick to offer a solution.
This is a great pick for people who want to get a product that can rival with the models that professionals use for a fraction of their price.
9 Best Bug Foggers (Reviews) in 2023
With so many options on the market, we understand that finding the right bug fogger machine can be a difficult task. To this end, we have looked at some of the critically acclaimed products currently available for sale and we have showcased them below for you to examine and choose the one that offers the performance you seek.
1. Petra Electric Fogger Atomizer Backpack Sprayer
The powerful 1200W motor of this model operates on 110V AC power and it can shoot up to 10 feet of liquid/chemicals to provide the maximum fogging coverage. Thanks to its 4-gallon capacity, this model is perfect for outdoor applications and it can cover large fields, crops, gardens, yards, orchards and more in record time.
It comes with an adjustable screw that lets you change the rate of flow on the fogger while the machine is in use. This way, you can switch from spraying a tall tree to a nearby bush in an instant. The size of the particles is of just 20-50 microns and that makes this choice ideal for ULV spraying needs.
As mentioned above, the fogger has a capacity of 4 gallons and in spite of this factor, it still remains quite portable and easy to carry thanks to the backpack-style straps on the back of the container. The premium quality straps and the foam on the back will let you carry the unit comfortably.
Pros
The extra-long hose will make it much easier for the user to spray the solution up high such as in a tree, but also down low in areas that would otherwise require you to bend down.
It has a wide mouth lid design that will let you fill the 4-gallon tank effortlessly with your desired insect repellent or chemicals without messing with the seals and clamps or spilling the formula on the ground.
It is the perfect multi-purpose outdoor bug fogger since it can cover anything from your field and yard, to a greenhouse or a growing area in just a few minutes.
To make it easier for the user to transport the fogger, the unit features backpack straps that are made from premium quality materials capable of handling the weight of the tank while also keeping you comfortable.
Cons
While the straps are very comfortable, the fogger is quite heavy when full with four gallons of water in it, and that can tire your back fast.
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2. Fountainhead Burgess Prod 16443652N Propane Powered Insect Fogger
The secret of the performance that the Fountainhead/Burgess Prod model offers lies in the microscopic particles that it produces. These particles are up to seven times finer than mist, and it allows the fog they create to float and penetrate deep into the landscape zones and right into the areas in which bugs hide.
It can create a bug-free zone for up to 6 hours and you won’t have to worry that you’ll be forced to keep away either since the fog will be gone in about 5 minutes so that you can return to the outdoors once again and enjoy a pest-free yard.
This is a propane bug fogger and it will require about 2-4 minutes of warm up. Once the machine is warmed up you can pull the trigger once every 4 seconds and you will have a tool capable of decimating the bug population in your area.
Pros
Customers have mentioned that it is very easy to control the fog that the unit produces, and that it reaches even the hard-to-reach areas that would otherwise be problematic.
A single and quick application will protect against mosquitoes and biting flies for up to 6 hours.
With one fill of the storage tank, you can treat on average 5,000 square feet of yard space in under 10 minutes and the fog will go through ground covers and dense foliage as well.
The product is quite portable and it can go with you anywhere, not to mention that it is compatible with either a 16.4-ounce short style or 14.1-ounce tall style propane tank.
It is ideal for use before picnics, barbecues, or outdoor parties since the fog will disperse in less than 5 minutes after each use.
Cons
Unlike an electric option that operates by a simple press of a button, with this one you will have to manually light the heating coil with a match or lighter.
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3. Smith Performance Sprayers Professional Pest Control
The Smith Performance Sprayers has the perfect alternative for customers who are looking to get the same level of performance as what can be found in professional systems but for a fraction of that price. The unit is designed for commercial applications including insect control, flood and fire restoration, and odor control with deodorizers.
The particles that this choice creates will easily penetrate any area that you wish to treat, and with the barrel attached it can produce a dry fog as well. It can convert one ounce of oil-based insecticide into around 2,000 cubic feet of fog in under 2 minutes.
The design of the unit is also very practical since it is very easy to operate and the fogger itself weighs very little. Seeing as this is a thermal fogger, it is important to remember that you will need to preheat it for at least 2 minutes before use.
Pros
Because the device is very easy to operate and it has a lightweight construction, using it for extended periods will not be a problem at all.
The heating element this choice uses will atomize the insecticide into fine particles to allow them to float around and under surfaces for complete coverage.
You can adjust the flow rate on the go based on the application that you have in mind, and you will be able to get a dryer or wetter fog.
The reservoir is made of durable and heavy-duty aluminum that can hold up to 96 ounces of water- or oil-based solutions.
This is a multi-purpose product seeing as it can be used not only for insect control but also for flood and fire restoration or odor-control with deodorizers for mildew, pets, smoke, etc.
Cons
The higher price is the only primary complaint customers have since otherwise the product has garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback.
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4. Bonide 420 Fog-Rx Propane Insect Fogger
The 420 Fog-RX model is a top-selling model that boasts an excellent build quality, is easy to use, and is available at a decent price. It is powered by a propane flame, which is why it works best for outdoor applications. Its portable design has a handle on the top of the unit for easy operation with one hand.
The fog that it produces is very dense allowing it to go through foliage, cracks, and any other hiding places to annihilate the insect population and leave the environment safe and pest-free. It is effective against flies, mosquitoes, gnats, and moths.
While the manufacturer recommends using the fogger with its own brand of insecticide, it is just as effective when used with any other insecticide on the market that is intended for use with a thermal fogger. It comes with an igniter button so that you don’t have to use a match or a lighter to light the coil.
Pros
The container is translucent which will let you see at a glance how much insecticide or other liquid used for fogging is left so that you can plan accordingly.
The weight of the unit without the propane canister is of just 4 pounds and that makes the fogger very light and easy to carry around.
If you are looking for a bug fogger for yard, the specifications this model offers make it ideal for this purpose as well as for use at picnics, campsites, gardening, or outdoor events.
The product can be used with both water and oil-based solutions, but for the best results, it is recommended to stick with oil based insecticide.
Cons
The unit uses a propane canister which unfortunately does not come included, and that means you will need to add the cost of the canister to the price of the bug fogger.
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5. Burgess 1443 Propane
The 1443 model is a portable alternative that measures 6.8 by 15 by 11 inches and it has a total weight of around 3.1 pounds. The reservoir can hold up to 40 ounces of insecticide when full and that provides around 2.5 hours of continuous spraying. It offers more than enough fog to help you cover a wide area.
The unit is also extremely convenient to use thanks in part to its unique design that allows it to use significantly less insecticide when compared to other bug foggers. To add to that, customers have mentioned that using just one quart of a high-quality insecticide is enough to cover half an acre of land.
It is very easy to use the fogger, the only compromise being the absence of an igniter, and you will need to use a lighter or matches to light up the coil. A single application will protect against bugs for up to 6 hours.
Pros
You can treat on average 5,000 square feet of yard space in less than 10 minutes and the fog will get through shrubs, dense foliage and ground covers thoroughly to eliminate all insects.
The fog it creates is very efficient at eliminating pests and it will disappear typically in less than 5 minutes, making this option ideal for use in populated outdoor areas.
The fogger includes a trigger lock which will prevent the insecticide from being dispersed accidentally, which is a very useful safety measure to have.
If you are looking for cheap bug foggers, you will be more than satisfied with the low price of this unit and the fact that it uses significantly less insecticide than other models.
Cons
The unit does not come with a built-in igniter, which means that users will have to resort to using a match or a lighter to light the heating coil manually.
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6. Smith Performance Sprayers Professional Pest Control Electric Cold Fogger
This indoor bug fogger is ideal for topical use since it atomizes chemicals without the use of heat that would pose a danger in indoor conditions. The unit generates a fine fog that can be controlled and directed at any surface and area that you want, even corners and cracks that would otherwise be difficult to reach.
There are two modes of operation for this unit: you can adjust the knob open by ¼ – ½ turn if you want the machine to deliver a ULV fog, or you can leave the knob open at one full turn to deliver a power mist. Do note that you should not leave the fogger on the floor, but rather elevated to keep moisture and dust out of it.
The 1.5-gallon tank features a large white cap to make it easier for you to fill it with your pre-mixed chemicals and it includes easy-to-read fill markings on the outside which will let you avoid accidental overfills.
Pros
The product is also highly portable and that lets it be utilized for small enclosures that can be a nuisance to treat against bugs.
The adjustable flow nozzle and flexible application hose provide the ultimate versatility which will enable your new fogger to reach even the areas that would otherwise be inaccessible.
The unit is compact and comfortable to carry around thanks to the carry handle that is specifically designed to fit the shape of your hands.
You get complete control of the chemical application since the nozzle can change from a light mist to heavy coating, depending on how you wish to use your insecticide.
Care and maintenance is a breeze since the tank is easy to empty and flush and the filters can be cleaned in no time.
Cons
Some customers would have preferred if the hose was a bit longer to give them more mobility in difficult environments.
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7. VetKem Fogger
If you don’t want to worry about using a hefty machine to keep your home protected against pests, the Vet-Kem alternative is a great purchase. It can fill an entire room while you are away from home with a fog that will kill adult fleas, ticks, and hatching flea eggs. It is the perfect choice for pet owners who want to keep the inside of their homes clean.
Once applied, the powerful formula will provide up to 30 weeks of protection since it will prevent the eggs already found in your home from developing into biting fleas and it will kill larvae instantly. The entire can of spray can treat a space of approximately 6,000 cubic feet.
Customer feedback is mostly positive with customers praising the efficiency of this option and the fact that it leaves no lingering scent as long as you leave it set for a couple of hours. Furthermore, it leaves no residue on the furniture.
Pros
This is a versatile choice that can be used in all indoors conditions, be it inside your home, in your pet’s pen or as a bug fogger for car.
It is very easy to apply the fog since all that you will need to do is make sure that you are following the included instructions so that you use the recommended dosage and then spray the fog from the can.
You can also take it with you while traveling seeing as the spray can easily fit inside your purse or bag, not to mention that it also acts very fast once you apply it.
Once applied, the fogger will stop hatching eggs and larvae and it will prevent flea infestation and build-up for 30 weeks.
Cons
Do keep in mind that you will need to air the room afterward to allow some of the chemical smell to go out of your room.
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8. Black Flag Outdoor Fogging Insecticide
The Black Flag brand is a very popular one to use with most bug foggers thanks to the quality that its insecticides offer, and this option is no exception. The manufacturer claims that it is designed to work with its own foggers and with those produced by Burgess. Regardless, customers have reported that it can be used with other foggers as well.
It works only with thermal foggers be them electric or propane-powered. The insecticide can kill mosquitoes, biting flies, gnats, flies, biting midges and even hornets and wasps. It is meant for outside use only, hence its name, and users have reported excellent results when using it to fog backyards, parks, patios, camping grounds, areas for special events, and more.
The fog that this insecticide creates will dissolve very quickly and it will leave no harmful residue behind, just a space that is free of nasty bugs and ready for your family and friends to enjoy.
Pros
The formula comes pre-mixed, you will just need to open the tank of your electric or propane fogger and pour the insecticide inside.
This is a versatile choice that works on a multitude of insects including flies, mosquitoes, gnats, biting flies, midges and stinging insects such as hornets and wasps.
Customers have reported that a simple fogging will remove mosquitoes and keep them away from your yard for days, sometimes even weeks.
You get a pack of two 64-ounce bottles that are more than enough to protect even the largest yards, gardens, children playgrounds or any other large outdoor space.
The formula is safe for pets and it has no ill-effects on lizard populations or on shrubbery.
Cons
While the product is very effective against mosquitos, the reports vary when it comes to other insects, with some customers claiming that it is not very efficient at killing or deterring flies.
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9. Black Flag Fogging Insecticide
The Fogging Insecticide from Black Flag is a synthetic Pyrethroid which allows it to be highly effective at killing bugs naturally while being 100% safe for humans and pets. The insecticide will turn into odorless fog and it will leave no traces of itself, only a trail of dead insects behind it.
Once applied, the insecticide will keep mosquitoes away for up to 6 hours, but if you do apply repeated foggings to a specific area you can increase the amount of time from 6 hours to even days. The formula is not only efficient but also economical since you will get to keep outdoor spaces bug-free for extended periods with less insecticide.
This product is formulated specifically to target mosquitoes but it is just as efficient at killing and deterring flies, biting flies, gnats, biting midges, and even wasps, hornets and other similar flying insects.
Pros
It is an economical choice especially since with repeated foggings you will get to keep your favorite outdoor space free of pesky bugs for a longer period.
The formula is ready to use, which means that you won’t have to mix it with water or other liquids.
The insecticide leaves no residue and it is odor free so that you can remove mosquitoes from your yard and prepare a barbecue immediately afterward.
Customer feedback is very positive and buyers are very happy with the performance and ease of use that this product offers.
The insecticide is compatible with most thermal bug foggers on the market even if the manufacturer only mentions compatibility with Black Flag foggers.
Cons
Unfortunately, this option does not work against ants or spiders, and if you want to remove those pests as well, you will need to search for an insecticide formulated to target them.
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Yearly Guide & Report
Getting the right bug fogger is not an easy task since one needs to consider the many types of foggers available on the market as well as their benefits and disadvantages. The guide below will go deeper into this issue to help you understand which product will work best for your requirements.
Types of bug foggers
There are two main types of foggers, thermal and non-thermal, or cold fogger as they are also called. Thermal foggers are best suited for outdoor use since the high temperature that is used to heat the solution can be a real fire hazard indoors. There are some thermal foggers designed for indoor use, but unless the manufacturer specifies this, you should use them outdoors only.
There are two main types of thermal foggers as well, gas and electric. Gas models usually use propane as the fuel and they have the advantage of being much more portable than the electric variants.
Electric foggers work on electricity and they do require to be plugged into an electric outlet. Unless the cable or the hose is very long, this choice can be very dependent on the position of your electric outlet.
Cold foggers, on the other hand, require no heating assembly to operate since they instead utilize air pressure to atomize the fogging solution. They are very portable and easy to use with minimal preparations since they can get up and running in a matter of minutes.
With that said, after looking at bug fogger reviews we’ve determined that there is no clear winner between the two since it all boils down to personal preference. While thermal foggers are more affordable, they do pose a fire risk because of the high temperatures they can reach during operation.
Some thermal models may even spew out more gaseous fumes than you want. That is not to say that cold foggers are without flaws since apart from being more expensive, the fog that they create is almost invisible and that can make it difficult to control the fumes and it may even lead to accidental inhalation.
Can you use an aerosol can?
There is also a third type of fogger that you can buy that is much more affordable but that, unfortunately, has a very limited coverage area. Aerosol cans may not be as efficient as a thermal or cold fogger but they do work in a similar fashion without you needing to purchase a separate piece of equipment to deploy the insecticide.
Aerosol cans are very easy to use since all that you need to do is push down on the fogging trigger and pulverize the insecticide on the intended area. They work for both indoor and outdoor spaces and they can usually cover an area of 30 by 30 feet, making them a great choice for small yards.
The downside is that aerosol fogger products are generally not safe for humans and you will need to be more mindful of where you apply them. If you want to use it in your garden or yard and you have edible plants there, you should avoid spraying the areas that contain them.
Don’t forget about the insecticide
Whether thermal or cold, foggers do need insecticide, and there are many different types on the market. You should not worry about compatibility issues since quality foggers tend to be compatible with most insecticide solutions on the market. These products can be divided into two types: residual and non-residual chemicals.
Residual chemicals can have a very damaging effect on wildlife which is why they are best used for indoor applications. They should never be used outdoors. Non-residual chemicals, on the other hand, are perfect for outdoor applications and you can apply them to a larger stretch of an infested area.
Bibliography:
4) On what insects do foggers work?
5) Safety precautions when using foggers
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