Florida is paradise—until the mosquitoes come out. From backyard BBQs to relaxing poolside, these tiny pests can ruin a good time fast. And while most people have their go-to tricks for keeping mosquitoes at bay, not all of them are backed by science.
At SWAT Mosquito Systems, we talk to homeowners every day who’ve tried everything from citronella candles to DIY traps. Unfortunately, there’s a lot of misinformation out there. Let’s cut through the myths and get to the truth about effective mosquito control.
❌ Myth #1: Citronella Candles Are Enough to Keep Mosquitoes Away
The truth: Citronella candles might smell nice, but their effectiveness is limited.
While citronella oil has mild repellent properties, the amount released from a candle often isn’t strong enough or consistent enough to protect a whole yard. If there’s no wind, you might get a tiny protective bubble—but step a few feet away, and you’re fair game for bites.
A better solution: A mosquito misting system delivers consistent, automatic protection by releasing a fine plant-based mist through strategically placed nozzles around your yard. It’s like a force field that citronella simply can’t match.
❌ Myth #2: Mosquitoes Are Only Active at Dusk and Dawn
The truth: Some mosquitoes are most active during those hours—but not all.
Different species have different habits. For example, the Aedes aegypti mosquito (which can carry Zika and dengue) is a daytime biter and is active in full sun.
That means you’re not safe just because it’s noon, especially in Florida where standing water and shade offer ideal breeding grounds year-round.
A better solution: SWAT’s automated misting systems can be programmed to mist at intervals throughout the day, providing round-the-clock protection—not just during dusk and dawn.
❌ Myth #3: DIY Sprays and Foggers Work Just as Well
The truth: Most store-bought foggers and yard sprays are temporary and not tailored to your specific mosquito problem.
A lot of homeowners try over-the-counter products hoping to save money. The reality? You’re spraying and praying. Many of these products wear off in hours and require frequent reapplication. Worse, they often miss key mosquito breeding areas.
A better solution: A professional fogging treatment from SWAT targets key harborage zones and provides longer-lasting relief—especially before an outdoor event or after a heavy rain.
❌ Myth #4: Mosquitoes Die Off in Florida Winters
The truth: Florida’s mild winters mean mosquitoes never really go away.
Unlike colder regions, Florida doesn’t get cold enough to wipe out the mosquito population. They might be less active during short cold spells, but the moment temps rise above 50°F, they’re back—and ready to breed.
A better solution: SWAT offers year-round mosquito control solutions, so your misting system works even during Florida’s “off season.” Don’t wait until bites start to take action—preventative control is more effective and cost-efficient.
❌ Myth #5: Standing Water is the Only Problem
The truth: While standing water is a breeding ground, mosquitoes also rest in shady, overgrown vegetation.
It’s not just about dumping water from buckets or kiddie pools—though that’s crucial. Adult mosquitoes need cool, shaded areas to rest. That means dense landscaping, under decks, and in thick hedges are all prime real estate for mosquitoes.
A better solution: SWAT’s technicians assess your entire property to identify resting AND breeding areas, then place mosquito misting system nozzles and fog strategically. Our goal is to create a perimeter of protection based on real science—not guesswork.
❌ Myth #6: Bug Zappers Help With Mosquitoes
The truth: Bug zappers attract and kill mostly non-biting insects like moths, beetles, and even beneficial pollinators—not mosquitoes.
Mosquitoes are drawn by carbon dioxide and body heat, not light. That means your zapper may look busy, but it’s not solving your mosquito problem—in fact, it may be harming your local ecosystem.
A better solution: SWAT’s plant-based mosquito misting systems are eco-friendly and specifically target the pests you don’t want around—without hurting the ones you do.
❌ Myth #7: Natural or Plant-Based Solutions Aren’t Effective
The truth: Not all “natural” repellents are weak. In fact, some are highly effective when properly formulated and applied.
At SWAT, we use botanical-based products proven to kill and repel mosquitoes. Our plant-based mists are gentle for families, pets, and gardens—but deadly to mosquitoes when applied through our high-tech systems.
A better solution: If you’re looking for a more natural approach to mosquito control, don’t DIY it. Trust a system that’s been custom-built and professionally installed for your property.
✅ The SWAT Difference: What Makes Our Systems Better
We get it—there’s a lot of misinformation out there. That’s why SWAT Mosquito Systems takes an education-first approach. We believe in giving our customers real solutions, grounded in science, backed by experience.
Whether you choose a fully automated mosquito misting system or need a one-time fogging treatment before your backyard event, our team delivers:
💡 Expert property evaluations
⚙️ Custom-designed systems built for your landscape
🌿 Plant-based options for eco-conscious homeowners
📞 Ready to reclaim your yard? Contact us today for a free custom quote and take the first step toward a bite-free backyard.
Final Thought: Don’t Let Myths Keep You Itching
Mosquitoes are more than just a nuisance—they can carry serious diseases and disrupt your quality of life. The biggest mistake you can make is relying on outdated advice and hoping for the best.
Let the experts at SWAT Mosquito Systems build you a solution that works—reliably, safely, and automatically.
SWAT Mosquito Misting Systems®️
SWAT Mosquito Misting Systems®️ is a licensed Florida pest control company specializing in the design, installation and maintenance of custom mosquito misting systems and fogging. The company has been protecting Florida homes from biting insects since 2006. For a custom estimate, call 866-559-1886.
