Frequently Asked Questions

The product works well in outdoor areas where there is minimal air movement, such as decks, yards, and campsites. For best coverage in still air, place the unit close to the ground. This allows repellent to spread over a maximum area.

Thermacell will take 10 to 15 minutes to reach maximum effectiveness. Plan accordingly.

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.

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. 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.

Technically, 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 10 to 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%.

Wipe down with a damp rag. Never submerge in water or cleaning solution.

Store your Thermacell in a cool, dry place away from heat sources.  You can put it in a plastic bag to keep dust and dirt out of it.  Always be sure to make sure your Thermacell is working properly if it has been stored for a long period of time.

Thermacell mosquito appliances and lanterns will not work well at elevations greater than around 2300m (above sea level). Above this altitude, units become difficult to start and run. The lower air density causes the problem.

For best results, start 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 area of protection.

• Check that the device is fully charged
• Make sure that the top of the device has clicked into place, it will not start unless it is on correctly
• Make sure that the blue tab has been taken off after purchasing

This means that the battery is running low and needs to be recharged

• Check that there is liquid left in the refill capsule, the device will still turn on and show that it is working even if there is no refill liquid left in the device.
• Check that the device is fully charged
• Place the device and power on 15 minutes prior to sitting down
• Place device at the center of the desired area to be protected

Yes, you can still use the device while it is being charged

Make sure that there is a refill capsule in the device

Occasionally condensation can occur. Wipe clean with a cloth or paper towel

• Press and HOLD the power button for 2 seconds until you hear the descending chime and all illumination turns off
• Remove the top and the unit will automatically turn off

The fuel supply may be empty. Look at the fuel gauge on the bottom side of the unit. Turn the unit off, replace the butane cartridge, and start it as shown in the directions. Next, turn the on/off switch to the on position and let the butane gas flow for 2 minutes before hitting the start button. This will purge the appliance and often corrects the problem. If the appliance still does not function correctly after trying the above steps, you may return it for a full refund.

Check to be sure that the pad has blue colour 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.

Ensure the Gas Canister is threaded in squarely and properly engaged within the unit. If in doubt, remove and reinsert canister.