Thermacell has released an updated version of its flagship LIV Smart Mosquito Repellent System, introducing modest but meaningful enhancements to its yard-scale pest control technology. The LIV 2.0 system builds upon the original platform, which WIRED reviewer Christopher Null praised two years ago for effectively reclaiming outdoor living spaces from aggressive mosquito populations.
Null, who relocated from California to Texas four years ago, noted that the local mosquito population had intensified significantly during his absence. After abandoning an expensive and short-lived pesticide spraying regimen that required quarterly visits from a professional with a backpack-mounted sprayer, he discovered the original Thermacell LIV system. The device creates a protective perimeter around a designated area, such as a pool, using Wi-Fi-connected hubs linked to individual repellers via cable.
The new LIV 2.0 iteration retains the same cabling infrastructure but upgrades most other components. Key improvements include a redesigned repeller that expands coverage area and reduces startup time, along with a more prominent on/off indicator for easier monitoring. Additionally, each hub now features two cable ports, offering greater flexibility during installation.
During testing, Null deployed a sixth repeller in addition to his previous five-unit setup to address a potential gap in the protective barrier where mosquitoes had previously penetrated. The system utilizes metofluthrin, a chemical that repels rather than kills mosquitoes, with each unit requiring a replaceable vial.
Despite the upgrades, the review highlights significant downsides. The system is now more expensive than ever and requires professional installation, which Null listed as a major drawback alongside the modest nature of the improvements. The Thermacell LIV Smart Mosquito Repellent System 2.0 is priced at $1,746 and received a rating of 8 out of 10.
Finally, a yard system that doesn’t require me to crawl around laying poison. Worth every penny if it keeps them away.
Does it actually work in high humidity? Texas mosquitoes are relentless, so I need proof before spending that much.
Modest upgrades for such a steep price hike? I’ll stick to my old mosquito coils and save the cash.
I love the convenience, but $1,746 plus pro installation feels excessive for bugs. That’s a pool heater’s worth of money!