Phantom would definitely be a better choice for ant control because it is a non-repellent which also has a transfer effect so it will be transferred back to the colony to wipe out the whole colony vs just the ants that cross over the treated area. The downside to this is that there is a delayed reaction kill which means while it will kill spiders, it will take a while for them to die. Phantom is only labeled for spot and crevice treatments around potential pest entry points such as pipes, wires, vents, window frames, etc and is not for perimeter spray treatments.
Phantom Termiticide Insecticide is labeled for boxelder bugs and should do a great job in eliminating this pest. Be sure to read pages 10-11 of the Phantom product label for more information on how to use the product correctly for this type of treatment.
Termidor SC outside and Phantom inside would be a great combo to use and would work like baits. They both are non repellent and will transfer through the colony from the ones that contact a treated surface.
Phantom is not labeled to kill maggots. If you are experiencing maggots, we suggest locating the source and thoroughly cleaning the area where you are noticing activity.
Per the product label, when using Phantom Termiticide/Insecticide it is not necessary to use a respirator if you will be using this product in a ventilated area, but if you will be using it in a non-ventilated area you would need to use one. We recommend the Comfo Classic Half-Mask Respirator if it is needed.
Phantom Termiticide/Insecticide is only labeled to be applied once a month inside. There is no fool proof way to prevent bed bugs and chemicals alone would not do so. We do have a great guide on "How to Prevent Bed Bugs" that can help explain how to prevent future infestations.
Phantom Termiticide/Insecticide can leave a residual for up to 90 days. Please keep in mind, that if you are treating for example, Bed Bugs, you will want to reapply every 21 days.
Please be patient using a transfer kill like of Phantom Termiticide/Insecticide does take time. It can take at least 3 weeks to start to maintain control of an ant colony. Also, keep in mind for peak effectiveness, only reapply once every 21 days. We have more tips in our Carpenter Ant Treatment Guide here.
Phantom Termiticde/Insecticide is not labeled to be sprayed on walls or carpeting. It is labeled for crack and crevice usage only indoors.
Birds are very sensitive to many insecticides, so we would not recommend using something like Phantom Termiticide/Insecticide in any areas where a bird such as a parrot may come into contact with the spray or the residual. You can view more information about potential toxicology of the product on the SDS here. We do recommend consulting your vet before using any insecticides indoors in a home with birds.
There are many newer insecticides containing active ingredients that have almost no toxicity to birds that will still do a great job on ants. Also, baits should be used in bait plate stations that could be placed in areas where pets would not have access to them. Advion Ant Bait Gel contains Indoxacarb, which must be digested by the target pests to take effect, and this is a great choice for ants (including crazy ants) looking for sweets or carbohydrates. For a protein (granule) bait, InTice 10 contains boric acid as the active ingredient, also with far less toxicity to non-target animals. If you prefer a spray, Arilon Insecticide is a non-repellent spray that also contains Indoxacarb.
Phantom Termiticide/Insecticide is a crack and crevice treatment insecticide. Indoors, you can use the Phantom to treat around baseboards, window sills, door frames, etc. If you are treating for an active bed bug infestation, then you can use the insecticide every 4 weeks until you can go 30 days without any signs or bites from the bed bugs. Please refer to our Bed Bug Guide on how to properly identify and treat for a bed bug infestation. Keep in mind that Phantom is not for sale to individuals in New York State without a Pest Control Operator's license, but many of our Bed Bug Kits are available to you.
If you were to wash an area where Phantom Termiticide Insecticide was applied, you likely will need to reapply. If the area needs to be washed, do that first and then apply the Phantom.
Applying Nyguard Plus over areas treated with Phantom Termiticide/Insecticide could null the nonrepellent factor of the Phantom. You can instead just use the Nyguard IGR or Gentrol IGR in the areas to benefit from using an insect growth regulator. The Nyguard Plus can then be applied the carpets as needed for carpet beetles.