Mosquito Problems in Summer: AC Trays, Coolers and Water Storage

In Bangalore's warm, dry months, you might expect fewer mosquitoes. Yet many homes still have them. In summer, the culprits are often the things we use to stay cool and the water we store: AC drip trays, air coolers, extra water drums and plant water.

This guide explains the summer sources and a routine to control them.

The short answer

Summer mosquito problems often come from man-made water: air cooler tanks and trays, AC drip trays and drain lines, stored water in drums, buckets and overhead tanks, water for plants and pets, and leaks and puddles from watering and washing. Heat speeds up mosquito development, so larvae can mature in under a week. Prevent breeding by emptying and scrubbing coolers and trays every few days, covering stored water tightly, fixing leaks, clearing drains and keeping plant saucers dry. Add screens, fans and nets for protection.

Summer hot spots

1. Air coolers: Water tanks and trays, especially when the cooler is idle.
2. AC drip trays and drain pipes: Pools in trays, buckets or sagging pipes.
3. Water storage: Drums, buckets and tanks with loose lids.
4. Plants and gardens: Saucers, trays and over-watered pots.
5. Pet and bird water bowls.
6. Leaks and puddles: From taps, hoses and washing areas.
7. Terraces and balconies: Containers and covers.

Weekly (or more frequent) routine

• Empty, scrub and dry cooler tanks and trays every few days. Do not leave water in a cooler that is not in use.
• Check AC trays and drain pipes, and make sure water drains away.
• Scrub and cover water storage containers, and fit tight lids and mesh on tanks.
• Empty plant saucers and avoid overwatering.
• Change pet and bird water daily and scrub bowls weekly.
• Fix dripping taps and hoses.

Why heat speeds things up

Higher temperatures shorten the time from egg to adult, so a neglected container can produce adults within about a week, or less in very warm conditions.

Protect yourself

• Keep screens in place, particularly if you open windows for ventilation.
• Use fans, bed nets and suitable repellents.
• Be careful at dusk and in shaded areas.

For societies

• Check tanks, sumps, cooling towers, common coolers and water features.
• Schedule larvicide treatment where water cannot be removed.

When to call a professional

If mosquitoes persist in summer, a professional can find hidden sources, including in tanks and drains.

Frequently asked questions

Why mosquitoes in dry weather?

Because stored and man-made water keeps breeding sites available.

Do coolers breed mosquitoes?

Yes, if water stays for days.

How often to change cooler water?

Every few days, with scrubbing.

Do AC units breed mosquitoes?

The trays and drain lines can.

This guide is part of IPest's complete resource on mosquito control. For identification help, prevention and treatment options, see our full mosquito control guide for Bangalore.