The product works well in outdoor areas such as decks, yards, and campsites. For best coverage, place the unit close to the ground. This allows the active ingredient in the repellent formula to spread as far as possible.

The active ingredient in our repellent formula will take approximately 15 minutes to reach maximum effectiveness.

In breezy weather, place the unit upwind of your location so that the repellent is carried by the wind into the area you want to protect. Thermacell may be less effective on very windy days, although mosquitoes aren't typically out on days like this.

In normal operation, a small amount of smoke may be visible coming from the device.

Do not expose appliances or mats to rain. Their effectiveness may be diminished.

Rechargeable devices are effective up to 28m2. Fuel-Powered devices are effective for up to 21m2. Both will protect the size of an average deck or patio. It is safe to use more devices to protect larger areas.

A repellent mat needs to be changed when it turns white. Each mat lasts for up to 4 hours of continuous use.

A cartridge will last up to 12 hours of continuous use and should be changed when empty.

Thermacell is designed to be used on a flat, stationary surface.  However, customers have told us that Thermacell is very effective while walking their dog and cutting grass, for example.

Yes, you can use Thermacell mats for a period of time less than four hours and they will still be just as effective.  If there is going to be a significant amount of time between usages (several days +), we typically suggest that you keep the mats in their foil packaging or in a sealed sandwich bag between uses.

You can turn the unit on and off at will. Please allow 15 minutes for Thermacell to reach maximum effectiveness.
For Fuel-Powered devise you can use a mat until it turns completely white.

An orange light on the top of the device glows when the unit is on.

No. It is normal for a spent mat to be dark brown on the bottom and almost white on the top.

Rechargeable Series: Yes, you can fly with the Thermacell E-Series

Fuel Powered: No. IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations state that you cannot bring Thermacell butane cartridges on a passenger aircraft or airline. We suggest that you bring your Thermacell appliance or lantern, and the mats with you, but purchase the butane cartridges at your destination.  Thermacell products are sold in over 25 countries including Australia, New Zealand, North America, Canada, Europe, Africa and Asia.

The Backpacker should only be used with Camping Gas cartridges that meet Standard EN 417. Various Butane/Propane/Isopropane mixes will all work.  For best performance, propane % should not exceed 30%.