Keeping potentially harmful flying insects, roaches, and rodents away is always a priority for homeowners. Unfortunately, rather than calling in our pest control experts to eliminate an infestation and prevent future problems, some people attempt do-it-yourself methods. There are numerous over the counter products on the market that promise to deliver results. At best, these tend to be costly, messy, and miserably ineffective. At worst, they can end up proving dangerous for you and your family, putting your health at risk. Electronic pest repellers are a prime example and have been at the center of controversy for years. The following outlines how these products work, the problems consumers have had with them in terms of effectiveness, and the ways in which they can be dangerous to your health.
Electronic Pest Repellers
Electronic pest repellers are available online and from local retailers. They come in a variety of sizes and price ranges, depending on the type of pest you are targeting and the area you wish to cover. These products typically get plugged into a wall or an outlet and produce an ultrasonic noise emitted at a high frequency. Manufacturers claim the devices will deter cockroaches, mosquitos, mice, or other types of rodents and flying insects.
The idea behind electronic pest repellers is that the noise created is above the level and pitch that humans can detect, but it is strong enough to aggravate common household pests. These products are advertised as a safe, humane, and environmentally friendly option compared to pesticides, baits, and other home extermination methods. Unfortunately, one of the problems with electronic pest repellers is that there is little evidence to indicate they actually work.
According to Consumer Reports, researchers have found these products to be largely ineffective. In some cases, they can actually attract mosquitoes and other types of pests. There have been numerous lawsuits against the makers of electronic pest repellers and the federal government has issued warnings to these companies regarding false claims and false advertising. An even bigger problem than their lack of effectiveness may be the potentially harmful effects they can have on you and your pets.
Are Electronic Pest Repellers Safe?
As the name implies, electronic pest repellers rely on an electrical current to emit the ultrasonic noise that is supposed to confuse, irritate, and ultimately drive off pests. This means that the device must always be plugged into a power outlet. In addition to the strain on your electricity usage, installation could put you at risk for electric shocks while defects in the product could create a fire hazard. Larger units could be particularly problematic. As homeowners are generally instructed not to mount these products too close to their homes, they may end up using extension cords to keep their electronic pest repellers operating, despite the obvious risks.
An even bigger concern is the effect the noises emitted by these products could have on humans and other types of mammals. The sound could prove troubling for dogs, cats, hamsters, or other household pets and those with sensitive hearing could end up being impacted by the device as well.
Human Hearing and Electronic Pest Repellers
Ultrasonic noise is designed to be above the level of human hearing, but even if you do not notice it you could suffer adverse health effects as a result of being exposed to the sound. According to studies conducted by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), exposure to ultrasonic noise can end up causing the following types of symptoms:
- Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears;
- Fatigue and sleep disturbances;
- Headaches and chronic migraines;
- Dizziness and fainting;
- Nausea and vomiting.
Those who suffer these symptoms may not associate their use of electronic pest repellers as the cause. Children and teenagers are more likely to pick up on the ultrasonic sounds being emitted than older adults. As a result, they are more likely to suffer the most severe adverse effects.
Call in Our Team at Pointe Pest Control
If you are experiencing problems with pests or rodents in your yard and around your home, beware of do-it-yourself products that are often ineffective and could jeopardize your health. Reach out to our pest control professionals instead. We rely on products that are proven safe, effective, and environmentally friendly. We aim for the best customer service in the industry and back our work with a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee. To schedule a free inspection, call one of our local offices or contact Pointe Pest Control online today.