When you buy a bug zapper, every bug in its radius should look out! This powerful tool is quite effective against those annoying little bugs! But wear and tear can lead to decreased results.
Even the best bug zapper might, one day, be run out of juice, or you have to troubleshoot it. Whatever the reason, I can help with a solution!
Why Is My Bug Zapper Not Working?
Your bug zapper may have lost its oomph due to a burnt-out fuse or a build-up of insect bodies. This can cause issues with the voltage that the device needs to zap the pesky bugs that irritate you.
When you realise your bug zapper is not working, you should inspect it carefully to see if any part seems out of place, damaged, or worn out. If everything seems good, then you have to troubleshoot the bug zapper.
These are common reasons why your bug zapper may have stopped working:
- The fud may be faulty or the circuit breaker is damaged
- Grids are sparking
- Light bulb needs replacing
- Killing grid may be faulty
If your bug zapper seems out of order, it’s best to check it straight away. Especially now, with the Japanese encephalitis breakout, we shouldn’t be staying without one of these handy devices.
How To Check A Bug Zapper?
It’s pretty simple to troubleshoot a bug zapper. Follow our guide below!
1 Check The Fuse
Make sure your zapper is unplugged or the batteries are removed.
This is a common fault in these devices. The fuse can burn out due to the igniter, which provides current that makes your bug zapper, well, zap. If the fuse is damaged, you should replace it according to the device manual.
You should do this yourself because most manufacturers don’t offer exterior repairs. You can check if your zapper falls under the guarantee. If you do, you should send it to the manufacturer.
2 Check the Grids
Next, check your grids.
If your grid has jolts of electricity that you can see, then that’s an obvious problem. You can usually sort this out by bending them back into a proper alignment. You should use an insulated screwdriver for your safety.
Another reason could be frayed grid wiring. This is when the grid wiring comes out of its place or overlaps. It can cause a short on the zapper and lead to it not working. You should uncross the wires carefully.
3 Don’t Forget The Inner Lining
If there’s nothing wrong with the grids, then your inner lining may have a fault. Check the lining for any wings, legs, and other bug parts which may have gathered at the bottom of the device itself.
If you see a build-up, use a brush or air blower to remove them. Avoid using your hands as you may tamper with something and cause a bigger fault. Depending on the size of your device, this should be a quick process.
While cleaning, avoid water on your bug zappers and make sure your hands are not wet. If water gets inside, then you have to take it to a professional, or the bug zapper may be permanently damaged.
The light bulb may also become loose and cause your bug zapper to stop working. Tighten it as the bug zapper is unplugged. You can also replace the bulb if needed.
How Do I Test The Bug Zapper?
Testing your bug zapper is more observing than an interactive process. Make you’re the bug zapper is plugged in properly or the batteries are inserted before the testing process.
Turn the bug zapper on and listen carefully to the electricity flowing. Don’t put your ear directly on the grids. You should hear a low humming sound if the zapper is on. Try and keep your pets away, they really despise this sound! This will tell you that you have a steady current going through the device.
You should also watch if the bugs come to the bug zapper. Wear protective glasses and long pants with a long-sleeved shirt. This will prevent bites from mosquitos. If the zapper shocks a bug that comes into its distance, then you should have no issue.
However, if the bug comes into its distance and the zapper does nothing, then you’re probably dealing with a poor grid alignment, which can be sorted by bending it back into place.
If none of the approaches worked, then you may be dealing with a more intricate problem. You should consult your manual and completely disassemble the bug zapper. However, this may be out of many people’s comfort zone, so getting a professional to look at it seems like the next best thing!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my bug zapper work in the daytime?
Electric bug zappers can work during the day, however, they will not be as effective as in the evenings. Since bug zappers use a UV light to attract the bugs, the UV light is hard to see when the sun is out.
How many volts does a bug zapper need?
Bug zappers are generally 2000 volts at 2 amps. You shouldn’t touch the wires when it is on! While it won’t kill you, it can hurt!
