DIY Danger Zone: Why You Shouldn’t Put Bug Zappers Near Patios

Bug zappers might seem like the perfect solution to keep pests away from your patio or pool—but where you put them makes all the difference.

Many homeowners place bug zappers right by patios, outdoor dining tables, or seating areas, thinking they’ll protect the space from stinging and biting insects. The problem? That’s exactly where bugs are now being attracted—straight to you.

Here’s What Happens:

Bug zappers work by using light (usually UV) to draw in flying insects. That’s great in theory—but the light doesn’t just pull in harmless moths and gnats. It can also attract mosquitoes, wasps, and other stinging pests.

When a zapper is placed near your seating area, you’re effectively inviting bugs to hang out near you before they get zapped. And if they’re not zapped immediately, they might just end up snacking on you instead.

Where to Put a Bug Zapper Instead

✅ Away from patios, decks, and dining areas: ideally 20–30 feet from where people gather.
✅ Near the perimeter of your yard or at the edges of your property.
✅ Near standing water sources, trash bins, or other spots where insects naturally congregate.

By placing bug zappers away from high-traffic areas, you’ll still attract pests—but you’ll lure them away from where you actually want to relax.

Better Options for Patio Protection

If you’re dealing with stinging or biting insects on your patio:

• Use fans—mosquitoes and other flying pests struggle in strong air currents.

• Eliminate standing water and potential breeding sites nearby.

• Consider professional mosquito treatments to reduce population levels without relying on DIY devices alone.

Need Help with Stinging or Biting Pests?

Paragon Pest Control provides safe, effective treatments for mosquitoes, wasps, and other pests that can crash your backyard gatherings.

📞 Call us at (972) 435-9797 or visit paragonpestdfw.com to schedule a service today.