Thermacell EX 90 Review

As someone who spends a lot of time outdoors in Michigan, mosquitoes are a constant nuisance. My family and I love enjoying the great outdoors, but nothing ruins the experience faster than a swarm of mosquitoes. I’ve tried various mosquito repellents, including Thermacell’s fuel-powered units, which worked well. However, when I heard about Thermacell’s battery-powered units, I knew I had to give them a try. The unit I tested is the Thermacell EX 90.

Design and Build of the Thermacell EX 90

The Thermacell EX 90 is compact and portable, weighing just 9 ounces. Its dimensions make it easy to pack in our camper for trips throughout the year. The design is sleek and functional, featuring rubber over-mold for durability, and an IP54 rating for water resistance. It also includes “Zone Check LEDs” with audio cues, ensuring you know when the device is active.

Battery Life and Charging the Thermacell EX 90

One of the standout features of the EX 90 is its rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which provides up to 9 hours of continuous mosquito protection on a single charge. Charging is straightforward with the included micro USB cable. The device also has a convenient display that shows remaining battery power through LED indicators, making it easy to ensure you’re always prepared.

Ease of Use

Setting up the EX 90 is simple. My first experience using it was at Ludington State Park over Memorial Day weekend. After charging the unit, I installed the refill cartridge by removing its cap and inserting it into the device. The top portion of the EX 90 comes off easily when you squeeze the side buttons, allowing for quick installation of the cartridge. The device takes about 12-20 minutes to warm up, but once it’s ready, it works impressively well.

Performance

The EX 90 creates a 20-foot zone of protection against mosquitoes, which is 80% more area than Thermacell’s original line. I noticed a significant reduction in mosquito activity around our campsite. One of the biggest advantages is that there’s no smell, unlike many traditional mosquito repellents. The device works quietly and efficiently, allowing us to enjoy our time outdoors without the need for harmful chemicals.

I also used the EX 90 in my backyard during a family gathering and while relaxing in the hot tub. In all settings, the EX 90 performed admirably, significantly reducing the number of mosquitoes. The device’s battery life is impressive; I didn’t need to recharge it during our weekend camping trip.

Drawbacks

Despite its many benefits, the Thermacell EX 90 isn’t without its flaws. Upon returning from our camping trip, I discovered that the liquid repellent from the refill cartridge had leaked out while the device was stored in the camper. This incident taught me the importance of keeping the unit upright, even when not in use. The cost of refills is another consideration. A 36-hour refill cartridge costs $19.99, and a 120-hour refill costs $54.99, which can add up over time. Additionally, while the EX 90 significantly reduces mosquito activity, it doesn’t eliminate mosquitoes entirely.

Thermacell EX 90 Specifications

Active Ingredient
- 5.5% Metofluthrin
Battery Life
- 9 hours
Refill / Cartridge Type
- Rechargeable Cartridges
Weight
- 9 ounces
Dimensions
- 2.5x4x4.25 inches
Charging Type
- Micro USB

Conclusion

Overall, the Thermacell EX 90 is a solid investment for those who spend a lot of time outdoors and prefer to avoid traditional mosquito repellents. Its ease of use, long battery life, and effective mosquito protection make it a valuable addition to any outdoor gear collection. However, potential buyers should be mindful of the refill costs and ensure the device is stored upright to prevent leaks.

Priced at $39.99 for the unit, with refill cartridges costing $19.99 for 36 hours or $54.99 for 120 hours, the Thermacell EX 90 offers a practical and mostly hassle-free solution for enjoying the outdoors without mosquitoes. I would give it a 4 out of 5 stars. For more information or to pick one up for yourself, visit www.thermacell.com, www.rei.com, or www.amazon.com.