I debated for a while about dropping over $500 for a backyard gizmo, but after dealing with one too many summers not being able to enjoy my yard - the sprays and candles were completely useless after about 10 minutes! - my wife and I decided to go for it. This machine has been a godsend to our family - our kids can now play outside after dusk and we don't have to worry as much about them getting bitten. I won't deny that the traps do require maintenance (and a continued investment on propane tanks and attractants), but in our mind it's a small price to pay for an enjoyable summer.