Ultrasonic Pest Control: Does it Really Work?
Updated: Oct. 31, 2022If you have pets or small children around, or otherwise are concerned for your own chemical exposure, you may be interested in purchasing an ultrasonic pest control device. Whether you want to repel rodents, insects or wild game, a device exists for you. Let’s see how they operate and if they accomplish their intended purpose.
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If you have pets or small children around, or otherwise are concerned for your own chemical exposure, you may be interested in purchasing an ultrasonic pest control device. Whether you want to repel rodents, insects or wild game, a device exists for you. Let’s see how they operate and if they accomplish their intended purpose.
How does ultrasonic pest control work?
Ultrasonic pest repellers, once plugged into an electrical outlet, operate by emitting short wavelength, high-frequency sound waves that are too high for humans to hear. The average young person hears sounds ranging from 20 to 20,000 Hz; whereas, a middle-aged person only hears up to 12-14,000 Hz. Animals and insects hear sounds in a much higher range. On average, ultrasonic devices emit a sound at about 65,000 Hz which, according to ultrasonic pest control device manufacturers, chases the pests away.
Keep in mind that if you did a few things around the home to deter pests, you might not need to resort to other methods. Sealing gaps, repairing screens and moving your firewood pile are just a few examples.
How long has ultrasonic pest control been around?
Although the use of electronic sound to control pests gained momentum in the 1950s and ’60s, experimentation with this technology started as early as 1948. The first patent for an ultrasonic pest device was issued in the 1960s. Many more patents have been issued since.
Are ultrasonic pest products cost-effective?
On average, an ultrasonic pest repeller lasts from three to five years. You know that it’s working if the LED light on the device is lit. You can buy a six-pack of these devices for less than $30. So, considering that sprays must be re-applied and traps need to be replaced frequently, yes, the ultrasonic device is cost-effective.
These 11 strategies for do-it-yourself pest control are actually quite creative.
Does ultrasonic pest control really work?
Because these devices aren’t regulated by the EPA, some folks are skeptical of their claims. According to an article by the BBC, entomologist Bart Knols asserts there is “no scientific evidence whatsoever” that ultrasound repels mosquitoes. The results of scientific studies for such products are all over the map, showing some pests respondent while others not so much. However, many of these types of products on sites for online retailers have plenty of 5-star reviews.
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