The Tekola Mosquito Repellent Electronic Device utilizes a natural citronella-based formula to create a mosquito-reduced zone up to 30 feet in diameter. This compact and rechargeable device offers a chemical-free alternative to traditional mosquito repellents, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
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Last summer, I reached my breaking point with mosquitoes. Every evening on my patio turned into a battle—slapping, spraying, retreating indoors by 7 PM. Traditional citronella candles barely made a dent, and coating myself in sticky DEET spray before dinner felt ridiculous. That’s when I discovered this electronic mosquito repellent with plant-based refills, and I’m not exaggerating when I say it completely transformed my outdoor experience.
If you’re searching for a portable mosquito repellent that actually works without chemicals on your skin, this rechargeable device with citronella-based refills deserves your attention. After using mine for an entire mosquito season, here’s my honest assessment of whether this electronic mosquito repellent lives up to its promises.
Unlike ultrasonic repellers that science has repeatedly debunked, this electronic mosquito repellent uses heated plant-based compounds to create an actual protective zone around you. The device warms a replaceable refill containing natural ingredients like citronella, creating a 30-foot mosquito-reduced zone within 10 minutes of activation.
According to research from NC State Extension, heated repellent devices that disperse botanical compounds into the air show significantly better results than passive citronella candles or ultrasonic devices. The key difference is active diffusion—the electronic mosquito repellent circulates repellent molecules throughout your space rather than relying on passive vapor or ineffective sound waves.
The device operates on a simple but effective principle. When you activate it, a heating element warms the plant-based refill to its optimal temperature. As the refill heats, it releases a fine mist of botanical oils—primarily citronella, lemongrass, and eucalyptus—that mosquitoes find extremely unpleasant.
Unlike sprays that only protect your body, the electronic mosquito repellent creates an invisible protective bubble. Within this zone, mosquitoes either avoid entry or leave quickly. It’s similar to how Thermacell devices work but at a fraction of the cost.
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When my electronic mosquito repellent arrived, I was impressed by its compact design. At roughly the size of a coffee mug, it’s genuinely portable—I’ve taken mine camping, to backyard barbecues, and even fishing trips. The rechargeable battery eliminates the need for constant replacements, though you do need to remember to charge it between uses.
Installation of the plant-based refill took literally 10 seconds. You simply screw the refill cartridge into the device, press the power button, and a small indicator light confirms it’s heating. The instructions recommend waiting 10 minutes before expecting full effectiveness, and I found this timing accurate.
I tested this electronic mosquito repellent in multiple scenarios over four months:
Patio Dining (Low Mosquito Pressure) On mild evenings with moderate mosquito activity, the device performed excellently. My wife and I enjoyed two-hour dinners without a single bite. The 30-foot protection zone easily covered our patio table and seating area.
Backyard Camping (High Mosquito Pressure) This proved more challenging. In heavily wooded areas near standing water—mosquito heaven—the electronic mosquito repellent reduced bites significantly but didn’t eliminate them completely. I’d estimate 70-80% fewer bites compared to no protection. When I added personal DEET spray on exposed ankles and wrists, the combination worked perfectly.
Hiking and Portability I clipped the device to my backpack during evening hikes. While walking, effectiveness dropped noticeably—likely because I kept moving out of the protected zone and wind dispersed the repellent. For stationary activities (fishing, camping), it worked much better.
The honest verdict: This electronic mosquito repellent excels in controlled outdoor spaces with light-to-moderate mosquito populations. In extreme conditions or while moving, it provides supplementary protection rather than complete immunity.
One major selling point is the DEET-free, plant-based formula. Each refill contains:
The scent is noticeable but not overwhelming—a fresh, herbal aroma that I actually find pleasant. Unlike DEET or permethrin sprays, there’s no chemical odor, skin irritation, or oily residue.
The plant-based formula makes this electronic mosquito repellent safer around kids and pets compared to chemical alternatives. According to Eartheasy research, while DEET remains the most effective repellent for personal application, spatial repellents using botanical oils provide a gentler alternative for families.
That said, I still keep the device on elevated surfaces—a table or bench—to prevent curious toddlers or pets from touching the warm heating element or knocking it over.
The built-in rechargeable battery runs for approximately 4 hours on a full charge. USB charging takes about 2-3 hours, and I appreciate not buying disposable batteries or butane cartridges.
Battery Life in Practice:
The 4-hour runtime is the main limitation for extended outdoor events. If you’re hosting a 6-hour party, plan to recharge mid-event or have a backup device. Some competing models offer longer runtime but at higher cost.
I’ve burned countless citronella candles over the years with disappointing results. Studies from LAist found that citronella candles have minimal effectiveness outdoors, particularly in breezy conditions.
This electronic mosquito repellent vastly outperforms candles because:
DEET remains the gold standard for personal mosquito protection, with effectiveness rates near 100% when properly applied. However, the electronic mosquito repellent offers advantages:
Pros of Electronic Device:
Pros of DEET:
My solution: I use the electronic mosquito repellent for stationary outdoor activities (patio dining, camping) and DEET spray for hiking or high-risk mosquito areas.
Thermacell pioneered heated spatial repellents and remains the premium option. According to Outdoor Life reviews, Thermacell devices are highly effective but require ongoing purchases of both fuel cartridges and repellent mats.
This electronic mosquito repellent offers comparable protection at lower cost:
If you’re a serious outdoor enthusiast who camps in remote areas regularly, Thermacell’s proven reliability might justify the premium. For casual homeowners wanting patio protection, this device delivers excellent value.
I initially dismissed the built-in night light as gimmicky, but it’s actually quite useful. The electronic mosquito repellent includes a soft LED that provides gentle ambient lighting—perfect for evening patio gatherings without harsh overhead lights.
The light operates independently from the repellent function, so you can:
It’s not bright enough for reading or tasks requiring strong light, but it creates pleasant atmosphere while marking the device’s location so nobody trips over it in the dark.
Each refill lasts approximately 240 hours of active use—that’s 60 four-hour sessions. Refills typically cost $10-15 for a 2-pack, though prices vary.
Annual Cost Calculation:
Compare this to alternatives:
The electronic mosquito repellent offers competitive or superior value, especially since the device itself is reusable for years.
Based on my months of testing, this device is perfect for:
Patio and Deck Owners If you have an outdoor dining or entertaining space, the electronic mosquito repellent transforms usability. I went from avoiding my patio at dusk to hosting regular evening dinners.
Families with Young Children Parents appreciate the DEET-free protection. Kids can play in the protected zone without mosquito bites or chemical exposure.
Casual Campers and RV Owners The portable electronic mosquito repellent works wonderfully for car camping, RVing, or backyard camping. Its lightweight design and USB charging make it travel-friendly.
Allergy and Sensitivity Issues If you react badly to DEET, permethrin, or other chemical repellents, the plant-based formula offers a gentler alternative.
Environmentally Conscious Consumers Natural ingredients, rechargeable design, and reduced plastic waste appeal to eco-minded buyers.
Honesty matters, so here are situations where this electronic mosquito repellent falls short:
Heavy Mosquito Infestations In areas with extreme mosquito populations (swamps, wetlands, tropical regions), this device alone won’t provide complete protection. You’ll need supplementary measures.
Windy Conditions Strong wind disperses the repellent too quickly. The electronic mosquito repellent works best in calm to moderately breezy conditions.
Active Movement If you’re hiking, jogging, or constantly moving, you’ll leave the protected zone. This device suits stationary activities.
Indoor Use Considerations While marketed for indoor/outdoor use, I primarily use mine outdoors. The heating element and botanical oils are safe indoors, but I prefer traditional indoor mosquito control methods.
Protection Zone Limits The 30-foot zone works for small-to-medium gatherings (6-8 people). Large parties might require multiple units.
After four months of regular use, here’s what I’ve learned about maintaining the electronic mosquito repellent:
Cleaning
Battery Care
Refill Management
Seasonal Storage
To maximize effectiveness of your electronic mosquito repellent:
Positioning Strategy Place the device upwind from your seating area so natural breeze carries repellent toward you. Elevate on a table or stand for better dispersal.
Timing Activate the electronic mosquito repellent 10-15 minutes before you need protection. This allows the zone to establish fully.
Multiple Device Coverage For large areas, position units 25-30 feet apart, creating overlapping protected zones.
Combination Protection Layer defenses: use the electronic mosquito repellent for area protection, plus personal spray on exposed skin in high-risk situations.
Weather Monitoring Check wind conditions before relying solely on the device. Winds above 10-15 mph significantly reduce effectiveness.
Understanding the research helps set realistic expectations. Studies from the Innovative Vector Control Consortium found that spatial repellents using metofluthrin or allethrin (synthetic compounds similar to pyrethrins) significantly reduce mosquito biting pressure.
While this device uses plant-based citronella rather than synthetic compounds, the principle remains the same: heated botanical oils create a chemical barrier mosquitoes avoid. The key difference from candles or passive methods is the active heating and circulation.
Important Note on Ultrasonic Claims Some devices claim ultrasonic technology repels mosquitoes. Research from the American Mosquito Control Association conclusively shows ultrasonic repellers are ineffective. This device I’m reviewing uses heated plant-based compounds—proven technology, not ultrasonic gimmicks.
After four months living with this electronic mosquito repellent, it’s earned permanent status in my outdoor gear. While not a miracle solution for extreme conditions, it excels at its intended purpose: making patios, decks, and casual camping comfortable.
Buy this electronic mosquito repellent if:
Consider alternatives if:
The electronic mosquito repellent represents excellent value for homeowners seeking comfortable outdoor living without harsh chemicals. It’s not perfect—no single solution is—but combining this device with smart timing and occasional personal spray creates remarkably effective mosquito protection.
For more outdoor living tips, check our complete mosquito control guide and patio improvement ideas.
Q: How long do refills last in an electronic mosquito repellent? A: Each plant-based refill provides approximately 240 hours of active protection. With typical 3-4 hour evening use, one refill lasts 60-80 sessions—roughly one full summer season for most users.
Q: Is electronic mosquito repellent safe around pets and children? A: Yes, the plant-based formula using citronella and natural oils is significantly safer than chemical alternatives. However, keep the device elevated to prevent contact with the heating element, and supervise young children around the unit.
Q: Can I use electronic mosquito repellent indoors? A: While marketed for indoor/outdoor use, the device works best outdoors in semi-enclosed spaces like screened porches. The botanical oils are safe indoors but may be strong in confined spaces.
Q: How does electronic mosquito repellent compare to DEET spray? A: DEET spray provides superior personal protection (near 100% effectiveness on applied skin), while electronic devices create area protection without skin application. For stationary outdoor activities, the device offers excellent convenience. For hiking or high-risk areas, DEET remains more effective.
Q: Will wind affect my electronic mosquito repellent performance? A: Yes, strong winds (15+ mph) significantly reduce effectiveness by dispersing the repellent too quickly. The device works best in calm to moderately breezy conditions. Position upwind from your seating area for optimal results.
Q: How long does the rechargeable battery last on an electronic mosquito repellent? A: The battery provides approximately 4 hours of runtime on a full charge. Charging via USB takes 2-3 hours. For extended events, bring a portable power bank or have a backup device.
Q: Are ultrasonic electronic mosquito repellents effective? A: No, scientific research consistently shows ultrasonic devices do not repel mosquitoes. Choose devices like this one that use heated plant-based compounds or EPA-registered chemicals (metofluthrin, allethrin) for proven effectiveness.
