Insect light trap installation and maintenance

PS.350

Purpose

To provide guidance and to establish procedures for Pest Technicians for the installation and maintenance of Insect Light Traps (ILTs) for clients of Good Earth Pest Company.

Safety and Health

CAUTION Insect Light Traps are intended for Commercial indoor use only and should never be installed in exterior areas or areas where they could be exposed to water. These are electrical devices that can cause fire, electric shock, or death. Read all safety instructions in the owner’s manual of that specific light trap before installation or maintenance.

Installation of the ILTs may require the use of a powered hand drill. Read the instruction manual for the tool you are using before operation. Always wear the proper personal protection equipment including eye protection and make sure to stay alert and use common sense when operating this tool.

Materials and Equipment

  • Insect Light Traps,
  • ladder,
  • measuring tape,
  • level,
  • powered hand drill,
  • 3/16’ drill bit,
  • drill bits,
  • pencil, and
  • sheetrock or masonry anchors if needed.

Maintenance services may require

  • a ladder,
  • glue board, and
  • the lightbulbs that correspond to that specific light trap.

Procedure

ILTs are to be installed only if the client has agreed to the additional cost associated with them. These are not typically covered under a regular service program unless that was established during the original bidding process. See the Pricing and Warranty guide located on BambooHR for reference when bidding for these devices.

ILT Installation:

The type of light and install location should be determined during the bidding process. Typically, ILTs are attached to a wall and plugged into a grounded 120V electrical outlet. For aesthetic reasons, some lights can be hardwired but that type of installation must be performed by a certified electrician.

The most effective placement for traps is at eye level and in locations where they cannot be seen from an exterior entrance. Traps must be placed in areas where they can easily be serviced and be plugged in (typical cord length is 6 ft.). Placing them too close to an entrance can result in drawing excess flying insects inside through the door. Before placement, make sure to consult the facilities manager so that the light does not hinder the people who work onsite. Again, only place these lights in interior areas where they will not get wet.

  1. Once the location has been determined, unbox the ILT and follow the install instructions inside.
  2. Using your pencil, find the location of the first mounting point that will provide the optimum mounting height.
  3. Draw a horizontal line using the pencil and level.
  4. Determine the second mounting point along that line using your measuring tape (each light has a specific distance between the two keyhole mounting points on back).
  5. Once both mounting points are marked, use the following method based on the substrate that the light is being attached to:
    a. Sheetrock: Drill a 3/16” hole and use provided anchor or a similar sheetrock anchor.
    b. Stud (behind sheetrock): Use one of the provided screws without an anchor.
    c. Masonry: Drill a 3/16” hole and use a masonry anchor.
  6. Install the two screws, leaving ½” exposed to hang the light on.
  7. Slide the unit onto the mounting screws, making sure it is secured.
  8. Install the bulbs and glue board provided. Plug in the light to make sure it is operating correctly.
  9. Clean up any debris created, all packaging from the ILT, and your tools from the work area.

ILT Maintenance:

For optimum performance, proper maintenance of these light traps is required. ILTs should be serviced at least once a month, but more frequent service may be necessary in areas of high amounts of flying insects.

  1. Before maintenance is performed, unplug, or turn off the unit for safety.
  2. Make sure that you can safely access and work on the ILT. Be aware of any hazards in that area.
  3. Inspect the light and cord for any signs of damage. Pay special attention for any indications of damaged wires, loose electrical connections, or signs of other electrical problems that could pose a safety risk. If any such signs are present, the light trap needs to be replaced.
  4. Clean the ILT using paper towels or wipes, making sure to remove any dust or debris.
  5. Open the ILT and empty the catch tray if there is one. Different styles of traps will have their own way of opening for service. If you are unaware of how to do this, consult the manual.
  6. Remove the glue board and inspect it. Make a note of the types and quantity of flying insects caught.
  7. Place a new glue board.
  8. Replace the lamp bulbs if necessary. These bulbs need to be replaced at least annually or if they are burnt out or damage. It is best to replace the bulbs in Spring or early Summer so that they are most effective through the season of highest insect activity. For restaurants or areas of food production, you must use shatter-proof lamp bulbs.
  9. Close the ILT. Turn it back on or plug it in. Make a quick inspection that the lights are on, and it is functioning properly.
  10. Continue steps 1-9 for all ILTs onsite.
  11. Be careful not to break the lamp bulbs because (like all florescent bulbs) they may contain small amounts of mercury. These bulbs can be placed in the landfill for disposal or recycled if available.
  12. Make notes in PestPac regarding to the maintenance performed, lamp bulbs replaced, and the level of flying insect activity that you found see PS.102 Entering material information and notes into PestPac Mobile.

Created

January 26, 2022

Revised

July 15, 2022

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