Wednesday 8 April 2015

Repair A Bug Zapper

Bug zappers help control insects while you are enjoying the outdoors.


Bug zappers attract mosquitoes and other insects by emitting light and then killing the bugs with a small electrical charge. Most zappers work in the same way and therefore have some of the same issues. Fixing a zapper that is not working can be frustrating. Common issues with bug zappers include bulbs that need replacing, dead bugs that are affecting performance and electrical grids that need cleaning or adjusting. Completing these basic maintenance items will have your bug zapper working to keep your yard bug free. Does this Spark an idea?


Instructions


1. Unplug the bug zapper before attempting any maintenance. Examine the cord attached to the bug zapper and any extension cords for damage or exposed wires. Replace extension cords if necessary.


2. Unhook the latch that holds the black light in place. This latch is located at the very top or very bottom of the bug zapper. Bulbs last for about 1,000 hours according to Kaz, maker of Stinger bug zappers. These bulbs need replacing if they have gone out or if they turn on but do not attract bugs.


3. Clean out any remaining insect debris from inside the bug zapper. Over time dead bugs will build up in the bug zapper and if they are not removed, they can create performance issues. Use a brush and compressed air to remove bugs from the interior, bottom and the electrical grids. Do not use water or other cleaning liquids on a bug zapper or they may short out and make the zapper unusable.


4. Inspect the electrical grids for issues. The grids should not be touching and there should be no arching between grids when the unit is on. If you can remove the grids, do so and then set them back into place. The grids must be seated securely into their places with little to no wiggle when touched. Use a screwdriver to adjust the distance between the grids.

Tags: electrical grids, between grids, dead bugs, extension cords, need replacing, that need, zapper they