Explained – Why High-Frequency Pest Control Does Not Work!

There are plenty of clever high-tech gadgets on the market – from vacuum robots to smart homes. One thing that does not make the list are electronic pest control devices. These devices claim that the ultrasonic high frequency acts as a repellent against pests. Unfortunately, one of our clients recently learnt that the hundreds of dollars spent on these devices were a waste of time and money.

If you are looking at electronic pest control devices, put them back on the shelf and save yourself the inconvenience.

Electronic Pest Control Devices – How They (Are Supposed To) Work

High-frequency pest repellents are small units that you plug into a power outlet. Units need to be installed all over the house – and according to our clients, cost around $100 each! (*1). Once plugged in and the power turned on, they emit a very high frequency that humans cannot hear(*2).

They are supposed to (at the very least) repel cockroaches, spiders, ants, rodents, and other pests (depending on the device). Some devices also claim that the high frequency will kill the pest. To kill the pest, the high frequency must cause the rodent or insect to suffer a cerebral haemorrhage(*2).

Unfortunately, our clients have not had any success at deterring pests, let alone eliminating them using these devices. A scientific study found that the only insect that was deterred was the humble cricket(*3).

The Limits of High-Frequency Pest Control Devices

In our homes, many signals are going on that can interfere with each other. Furthermore, not all signals can travel through walls and furniture. Electronic pest control devices are no different. If the pest is not in the direct line of the frequency, they will not notice it(*2,3). Furthermore, once they realise it (the sound) is not life-threatening, they get used to hearing it and begin to ignore it(*2).

Your Pets and High-Frequency Sounds

If you have a cat or dog, they will also be able to hear the high frequency emitted by the device. According to the dog experts at Wag(*4), electronic pest repellents do not usually bother dogs unless they are particularly nervous or sensitive. Other common pets such as birds, have a similar hearing range to humans so cannot hear the frequency. Always be sure to talk to your veterinarian about your pets before considering a high-frequency device.

What Environmentally Friendly Pest Control Options Actually Work?

If you have been looking at electronic devices because you are interested in safe pest control solutions, there are environmentally friendly products available. These have been researched and tested thoroughly. At Home Termite Control, we carry and recommend a product called Altriset. It targets specific species (such as termites) and does not harm beneficial insects(*5). It also doesn’t harm humans or household pests. We can apply Altriset without even needing any protective clothing(*5).

Save yourself time and money by choosing a professional to take care of your pest control needs.

We can take care of your pest issues safely and thoroughly. Contact Home Termite Control on 9454 7774 or 0488 991 126.

References

*1. Home Termite Control. Pest Control and Repellent Devices Don't Work. YouTube video. 2021.
*2. Gromicko, N & Tarasenko, K. Ultrasonic Pest Repellers: Solution or Scam? 
International Association of Certified Home Inspectors. 2021.
*3. Lee, C. Are Ultrasonic Pest Repellers Effective? McGill-Office for Science & Society 2017.
*4. Charlton, R. Can Dogs Hear Ultrasonic Pest Repellers? Wag. 2020.
*5. Home Termite Control. Environmentally and Eco-Friendly Pest and Termite Control. 2021.