The Thermacell Backpacker (should be called the Patio Boss!) is a practical outdoor unit, like most Thermacells using large-tank isobutane it needs a fuel source and uses the same 4hr pads/refills most current units share that actually last exactly 4 hrs. I like the large isobutane tanks, ($12.50 at CDN Tire) they last 80+ hrs , and it’s overall less hassle dealing with much less frequent fuel switch outs than the mini butane units, this is a big deal, more on that . Recently there’s a lithium rechargeable battery version that’s even less LONG TERM cost per use, - or is it? When the battery dies, , there’s more awkward party-stopping down time to deal with as guests start whining as the biting starts. Party down! , we’re getting eaten! And then after the battery gets charged a pad runs out an hour later? . Look, I just want to deal with ONE variable please, so the large isobutane does that for me. . Therefore the practical answer is to buy 2• battery- powered units and switch them out, or keep it plugged in. The Backpacker is ALWAYS portable, never needs to be tethered. There’s no question about ‘state of charge’ because you give the tank a shake every evening and know your ‘state of tank charge’ before you even start. So back to battery version; the battery eventually fades and dies like ALL lithium battery toys do in maybe 4-5 years, you will throw it away. Total loss. . So higher purchase price, (about twice the price of backpacker) less cost per hour initially but less convenience and a throwaway in the end. How green is a lithium battery in your landfill? Not very. In fairness it’s less greenhouse gasses than the isobutane. Sadly there’s no big enviro winner here, so let’s get back to what consumers want:
I’ll eventually buy a new lithium battery unit and take it on the road, to restaurants and parties in my wife’s purse. . But for less down time and fewer bites, which is why we’re here , , the backpacker is the unit we will generally use on the patio due to least cost and down time till there’s a better mousetrap with a huge 10 year lrechargeable battery and pads that cost less than $0,50/hr . Hope you found this helpful.. summary: it works great, you get a 15 FT sweet spot that mozzies avoid and it’s the best augment to DEET and zappers. Citronella your days are done!
| Department | Unisex-Adult |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Thermacell |
| Place of Business | BEDFORD, MA, 01730 US |
| Item model number | MRBPRCA |
| Product Dimensions | 18 x 12 x 8 cm; 113.4 g |
| ASIN | B07D7FK7C2 |
