Rodents and insects can spread salmonella, hantavirus, and other diseases and inflict major structural harm if left unchecked. Droppings, particularly around food and underneath sinks, gnawed or chewed food packets, and holes in wooden structures that can provide entrance into the home are signs of a rodent infestation.
The Current State of the Problem
Cockroach infestation, which is probably the most widespread and difficult-to-eliminate form of pest infestation, is demonstrated by the pest’s droppings. They can pepper-like specs usually found in kitchen cupboards and their egg sacs, which are frequently spotted in hard-to-reach places, such as crumb bins.
If you have pets or toddlers and are worried about chemical contamination, an ultrasonic pest repeller kit can be of use to you. Isn’t it true that the greatest rodent dilemma is one that never occurs? Sure, we can buy mouse traps to try to relieve the effects, but it won’t help us keep them from happening in the first place.
As a result, ultrasonic rodent repellents cater to homeowners because of their alleged potential to keep rodents from overstaying their welcome. They’re also simple to come by, as they’re sold in several home improvement shops and supermarkets. If you’re trying to keep rats, mosquitoes, or wild game away, there’s a device for you. Let’s take a look at how they function and whether they achieve their goal.
History
The ancient Chinese used various mechanically controlled sensory-repellent systems to prevent rodent infestations in crops and houses. The use of audible sound to deter pests is an old technique.
While electronic sound to combat pests became popular in the 1950s and 1960s, research on the technology began in 1948. In the 1960s, the first patent for an ultrasonic pest system was granted.
Since then, several more patents have been released. Ultrasound, classified as sound frequencies above the human hearing limit, has only been used as a pest control tool for a few decades.
Working of Ultrasonic Pest Repellers
When plugged into a socket, ultrasonic pest repellers work by generating short-range, high-frequency sound waves that are too loud for people to detect. A young person’s hearing ranges from 20 to 20,000 Hz, while a middle-aged person’s hearing ranges from 12 to 14,000 Hz. Animals and birds have a much wider range of hearing. Ultrasonic systems, on average, emit a sound frequency of about 20,000 Hz to several gigahertz, which, according to ultrasonic pest control equipment vendors, drives pests away. Apart from this method, you can begin by sealing holes, replacing windows, and relocating the firewood pile.
The ultrasonic systems are wired into a home’s electrical sockets and are said to emit high-frequency sounds that are annoying to pests. The sound is said to cause an audiogenic seizure reflex, including non-directional running, convulsions, and the possibility of death due to cerebral hemorrhage.
The hypothesis behind the machines is that as they cannot collect food, reproduce, establish dens, or communicate, the rodents become confused and flee. Ultrasonic systems are popular with users because of their ease of use and the fact that they are silent to human ears, ostensibly eliminating the need for batteries.
Research on the Effectiveness of Ultrasonic Pest Repeller
Studies on the effectiveness of ultrasonic insect repellents have shown mixed findings. In a study conducted by Kansas State University, the tools were good at repelling certain insects, such as crickets, but had no impact on cockroaches. None of the tools had any impact on ants or spiders. Few studies have shown that pests that seem to be disturbed by the noise quickly become accustomed to it until they know it is harmless.
Also, models that have performed well in experiments are unlikely to do well in real-world environments, where signal quality deteriorates quickly and is obscured by walls and furniture. Some people are wary of these instruments since the EPA does not regulate them. The scientific research findings on such items are mixed, with some pests responding well and others do not.
Side Effects
Although an ultrasonic emitter’s sound is intended to affect only rodents, certain mammals, including certain dog breeds, can detect it. It makes them feel very uneasy. The effect on humans can be much stronger. Few individuals can detect sounds outside their natural hearing range. Furthermore, even if a person is unable to hear, there is a connection between ultrasound and multiple hearing effects. The frequency may cause vibrations in the inner ear and brain. Nausea, disorientation, fatigue, and migraines are common side effects.
Conclusion
Even though multiple consumers have registered effectiveness, buyers are urged to do their homework before purchasing an ultrasonic pest repeller. Homeowners with pest issues should seek a licensed inspector who will assist them in identifying their specific pest problem and recommend realistic and appropriate solutions.