I started up my ThermaCELL® Mosquito Repellent and took it outside with me and the mosquitoes didn't stay away How come it didn't work?
For best results, start up the device and place it outdoors in the area of your intended activity for at least 15 minutes. It needs some time to establish the "Cell of Protection."

How does ThermaCELL work?
ThermaCell works by creating a vapor of a synthetic pyrethrum product that mimics natural chrysanthemums This vapor repels mosquitoes, black flies, gnats and other flying insects A butane cartridge heats up the blue pad containing the synthetic pyrethrum creating this vapor Depending on wind conditions, ThermaCell creates up to a 15' x 15' bug free zone.

I followed the directions for starting the unit; it got hot, but it did not keep the mosquitoes away from me.
Check to be sure that the pad has blue color left. If not, replace the pad with a fresh one. If the wind is blowing, place the unit so that the wind blows over it first, then the area you want to protect. That way, the wind will carry the repellent to where you want it.

Can I stop and start the unit or do I have to use it all at once?
ThermaCell units have an on off switch and can be used as needed Just be sure to check the color of the blue pad to make sure that there is enough synthetic product left to repel mosquitoes.

Can I stop and start the unit or do I have to use it all at once?
You can turn the unit on and off at will Please remember to allow 10-15 minutes for ThermaCELL to reach maximum effectiveness You can use a mat until it turns completely white.

How do I know my ThermaCELL is working?
You can tell your ThermaCELL is working by checking the indicator light at the top of the unit. The light glows when the unit is on.

When I installed a new mat, I noticed the bottom of the old mat was a dark brown color, almost as if it had burned. Should I be concerned?
Not at all. Under normal circumstances, a spent mat will be almost white on top and dark brown on the bottom.

My ThermaCELL Mosquito Repellent worked for a while, then stopped.
The fuel supply may be empty. Look at the fuel gauge on the bottom side of the unit. Turn the unit off, replace the cartridge, and start it as shown in the directions.

More Helpful Hints:

1. For best results, allow 10 to 30 minutes, depending upon area, for product to take effect. This product works well in outdoor areas where there is minimal air movement, such as decks, porches, patios, and yards.
2. In breezy weather, place the ThermaCELL Mosquito Repellent so the repellent is carried by the wind to protect your outdoor area. (Place unit upwind of your location.)
3. In normal operation a small amount of smoke may be visible coming from the pad.
4. Appliance and mat effectiveness may be diminished if exposed to rain
5. The underside of the mat may turn brown over time. This is normal.
6. Use one device per each 225 square feet (an area 15' x 15') or 15 feet in diameter. Use more devices in larger areas.
7. To clear unit, simply wipe down with a damp rag. Never submerge in water or cleaning solution.
8. For best coverage in still air, place unit close to the ground. This allows repellent to spread over maximum area.
9. Do not expose appliance or mats to rain.

When should I turn my ThermaCELL on?
ThermaCELL will take 10-15 minutes to reach maximum effectiveness Plan accordingly.

Can I buy cartridges (or mats)separately?
You can buy cartridges at www.epestsupply.comThe same ThermaCELL cartridges that are used in your ThermaCELL Mosquito Repellent are also used in ThermaCELL Hair Care products You can buy ThermaCELL cartridges in a two-pack or bulk 12 pack on the web site. You can purchase mats separately by calling us toll free at 1-877-500-0011.

Does ThermaCELL work on all kinds of mosquitoes? Yes. While ThermaCELL has not been tested on every species of mosquito it has been extensively tested on a large variety of species (including the most aggressive and prone to bite varieties). We have yet to find a kind of mosquito that ThermaCELL is not effective against.

How often do I have to change ThermaCELL mats?
The repellent mats need to be changed when they turn white. Each mat lasts 3-4 hours of continuous use.

How often do I have to change ThermaCELL cartridges?
The cartridges will last between 9-12 hours of continuous use and should be changed when empty.

Howlong after I order should I expect to receive my ThermaCELL?
We ship out all orders received by 3 p.m. on the same day; otherwise we will ship the next business day. Usually you will receive your goods within 3-4 business days of ordering.