Welcome back to the Mosquito Magnet blog after a long off season. The forum has started to stir, a user has prodded me into releasing the source code to the NodeMCU software as a complete package, another user introduced me to a smaller but just-as-capable NodeMCU, the WeMos D1 Mini, and in preparing a release, updating the system software, etc., I needed a test machine, so I am finally starting the Liberty Add-On project. Check the wiki and forum, and stay tuned for more details.
On the forum, a discussion started regarding CO2 cartridges, and my reply started to veer off into blog land, hence this entry.
CO2 Cartridges
I think we have established that a clean nozzle is vital to the trap’s reliable operation, and that the CO2 cartridges are woefully inadequate (although I haven’t tried using one after each tank change!) to clear a clogged system. The problem is that the trap may fail to start because of some other issue, and using 3-4 of these irritatingly sort-of expensive and short lived capsules would drive anyone batty. Plus, the original directions of backing off and letting the CO2 flow for ?several seconds? when in fact it comes out in one quick “whoosh” adds an unacceptable dimension of doubt to the whole enterprise.
I should mention a few more details about cleaning here. I use brake cleaner, and haven’t tried MAF (perhaps more effective). After removing the filter, place both into a 4 oz glass jar, cover with solvent, and place the covered jar into a small ultrasonic cleaner filled with warm water, and run for about 30-45 minutes. This seems to work.
I then test the nozzle(s). I was fortunate enough to acquire a used Mosquito Magnet valve from ebay. I block the propane line intake port, screw the nozzle into the valve, and connect a prior generation electric automobile tire pump with gauge to the Schrader valve input. With the pump on, the cleaned nozzle reads 35-45 psi vs the >60 psi from an obstructed nozzle. If the nozzle reads high, it gets another round of cleaning.
Prior to starting the trap, the tire pump connected to a trap also gives the same indication of the nozzle’s condition. I have experienced pressures up to ~110 psi this way. My criteria for cleaning is trap failure, but this policy results in failed traps at inopportune times. For example, my “newish” Patriot trap was having trouble staying lit at the end of last season, but will I clean it before trying to put it in service? Nah. “Millions for Defense, Not One Cent for Tribute ‘No, no, not a sixpence, sir!'”
Actually, thinking about it, I probably should test the trap first, it’s just that I have to repair my prior generation electric tire pump(s) that have failed from overuse first. We shall see.