Thermacell, established in the early 2000s, has become known for its mosquito-repellent products that aim to offer effective and convenient protection for both outdoor and everyday users. The brand was developed to address the limitations of traditional mosquito control methods, which often relied on chemical-based solutions or bulky devices. Thermacell introduced portable repellent devices using heat-activated repellent mats, marking a shift towards more user-friendly and efficient mosquito protection. One such product is their Thermacell E55 Rechargeable Mosquito Repeller which we will review here today.
The Thermacell E55 was provided to me for this review by Thermacell and I am allowed to keep this product indefinitely after the conclusion of this review. Thermacell has not been allowed to preview this review prior to its publication. I have been using the E55 for the past 6 months down here in Alabama while sitting on my porch during the days and evenings.
Design and Build Quality – Thermacell E55 Rechargeable Mosquito Repeller
Thermacell ships the E55 with a sleek and modern design. It’s a compact device, about the size of a coffee mug, which makes it easy to carry around and place wherever it’s needed. The design is minimalistic, with smooth curves and a simple, user-friendly interface. The E55 feels solid in hand, its very lightweight making it a good candidate for travel or throwing in a pack.
One of the key features I appreciated was the rechargeable battery. Unlike other mosquito repellents that rely on disposable batteries, the E55 can be charged using a standard USB-C cable, which is incredibly convenient. On a full charge, the battery lasts for up to 12 hours, which is more than enough for a full day or evening outside. The charging process is straightforward, and a small LED indicator lets you know when the device is ready to go. Of course this means that if you are on an extended trip in the woods, you might want to bring a power bank, and at that point batteries might be the better option?
Setup and Operation – Thermacell E55 Rechargeable Mosquito Repeller
Setting up the Thermacell E55 was a breeze. The package includes the device itself, a USB-C charging cable, and a cartridge of repellent. To get started, I simply had to insert the repellent cartridge into the top of the device, charge it up, and press the power button. Within a few minutes, the device begins to create a 20-foot zone of protection, which is ideal for small gatherings or solo relaxation on the porch.
The repellent used in the E55 is allethrin, a synthetic version of a natural repellent found in chrysanthemum flowers. I was pleased to learn that it’s DEET-free, which is important to me as someone who tries to avoid harsh chemicals whenever possible. The fact that it’s odorless is another major plus. I’ve used other repellents in the past that had a strong, unpleasant smell, but with the E55, I didn’t even notice it was there.
Effectiveness, Does it even Work? – Thermacell E55 Rechargeable Mosquito Repeller
This is where the Thermacell E55 truly impressed me. In the past, I’ve struggled with finding an effective way to keep mosquitoes at bay without buying a large or expensive device. Sprays are messy and need constant reapplication, while citronella candles only seem to work if you’re standing right next to them. The E55, however, offers a much more comprehensive solution.
During my first test, I placed the E55 on my back patio during an evening dinner with my girlfriend. Normally, we would have been swatting away mosquitoes or retreating indoors as soon as dusk fell. However, with the E55 running, I noticed a significant reduction in the number of mosquitoes around. We were able to enjoy our meal without the usual interruptions, and it felt like a minor miracle.
I’ve used the device in a variety of settings since then—camping trips, outdoor movie nights, and even just reading a book on the porch—and the results have been consistently impressive. The 20-foot protection zone is ideal for small to medium-sized spaces, and while it may not cover a large area, it’s perfect for creating a comfortable bubble where you can relax without worrying about getting bitten.
One of the best tests of the E55’s effectiveness came during a camping trip. We were deep in the woods, where mosquitoes are typically abundant and relentless. I set up the E55 outside our tent and was amazed at how well it worked. We were able to sit around the campfire late into the night without being constantly harassed by mosquitoes. It made the entire experience much more enjoyable.
Limitations – Thermacell E55 Rechargeable Mosquito Repeller
The Thermacell E55 is an impressive device, but it’s not without its limitations. The most obvious one is the size of the protection zone. At 20 feet, it’s sufficient for small gatherings, but if you’re trying to protect a larger area, you might need more than one device. This isn’t a huge drawback, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re planning to use it in a larger outdoor space.
Another limitation is the cost of the repellent cartridges. Each cartridge lasts for about 36 hours, which means that if you’re using the device frequently, you’ll need to replace the cartridges regularly. While the price isn’t exorbitant ($20), it does add up over time.
Additionally, while the device is water-resistant, it’s not waterproof. This means you need to be cautious when using it around water or in wet conditions. I’ve been careful to bring it indoors when it starts to rain, and so far, I haven’t had any issues, but it’s something to be aware of.
Wrap Up – Thermacell E55 Rechargeable Mosquito Repeller
Overall, I’ve been incredibly pleased with the Thermacell E55 Rechargeable Mosquito Repeller. It’s a game-changer for anyone who enjoys spending time outdoors but hates dealing with mosquitoes. The convenience of a rechargeable battery, combined with the effectiveness of the repellent, makes it a standout product in its category. The biggest drawback to me is the price of the refills, I think that if you could just buy liquid and refill the capsule yourself, this would save the end user a lot of money.
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