Tips & Tricks for Backpack Mist Blowers

Since backpack mist blowers have become an increasingly utilized tool in mosquito control, I thought now would be a good opportunity to share a few simple tips to maximize your time and treatments with this tool.

Backpack Mist Blower Tips & Tricks

To minimize back strain, you can place the blower on the edge of the tailgate while both putting the unit on and taking it off. This will reduce bending and possible back injuries or strains.
To minimize the likelihood of product pooling in the nozzle and potentially creating a small spill requiring cleanup, I always recommend throttling the blower up before starting the chemical stream.
When stopping treatment, the best practice is to reverse this process and keep the unit throttled up while turning the chemical valve off. Allow the hose to clear and then release the throttle.
Before each treatment it is strongly advised to shake the blower back and forth to make sure all chemical is properly mixed in the tank.
If you aren’t already using the diffusers that come with the unit you should try the circular one. They spread the pattern out allowing for better coverage when you place the nozzle into bushes. Mosquitoes look for shaded moist areas to rest during the hottest parts of the day. They love to fly into bushes and rest on the underside of the leaves. By placing the nozzle into the bush and making a circular or figure 8 motion you will maximize coverage of these roosting sites and increase your control.
If you have problems with diffuser being pulled off while treating, you can always attach it by running a zip tie through the end of the nozzle and the outside edge of the diffuser.

I hope your mosquito season is long and profitable – enjoy and stay safe.

Products

OneGuard® combines the power of a knockdown agent, long-lasting insecticide, synergist and IGR in one single product with controlled-release technology.
Sumilarv® 0.5G is a powerful new larvicide for longer-lasting mosquito control and an effective tool for resistance management.

Resources

Mosquito Control Protocol
Infographic Poster: Mosquitoes
YouTube Videos: Tips & Tricks for Backpack Maintenance and Proper Mixing Techniques

Written By

Jeff Howell

J.B. Howell is a Technical Field Specialist for MGK Insect Control Solutions. He received his B.S. in Entomology from Texas A&M University. Prior to working at MGK, J.B. was the staff Entomologist at the Houston Museum of Natural Science. He then spent time overseas as a civilian contractor Vector Control Specialist for the United States Military. He returned to work as Technical Director for Holder’s Pest Control in Houston. J.B. began work with MGK in April of 2009 as the South Central Territory Manager. In 2016 moved to MGK’s Technical Team where he currently works on internal projects, training, field testing and customer support.