Bed Bug Thermal Heat Treatments: Can Heat Treatments Cause Damage?
Bed bugs are tiny insects that can cause big problems in our homes. These pests like to hide in beds, furniture, and even walls, making them hard to get rid of. The fastest way to eliminate bed bugs is through thermal heat treatments. Let’s take a closer look at what these treatments involve and what damage could be caused by an untrained company.
What is a Thermal Heat Treatment?
Thermal heat treatments kill bed bugs using high temperatures within a matter of hours. Professionals use special equipment to heat up a room or an entire house to temperatures above 120 degrees Fahrenheit. At this heat level, bed bugs and their eggs can’t survive, so it helps to get rid of them quickly.
How Does It Work?
First, the experts set up heaters and fans in area where the bed bugs are found or that need to be treated. Then, we use powerful heaters and fans to raise the temperature. It is keep at target temp for several hours to make sure all the bed bugs and eggs are killed. It’s like giving bed bugs a really hot sauna that they can’t survive!
The Damage That Can Occur
While thermal heat treatments are effective against bed bugs, they can also cause some damage if not done carefully:
Personal Belongings:
Some items like electronics, candles, and certain plastics can be damaged by high heat. 120 Pest will go over in detail what items need to be removed before the treatment is done. Most small electronics will be fine during the treatment as long as they are unplugged and turned completely off.
Furniture and Fabrics:
Most of the furniture or fabrics found in your home will be fine during the treatment. Certain items that may be antique or held together with glue would need to be removed. A knowledgeable thermal heat company should be able to answer any specific questions.
Fire Risk:
Heating a room to such high temperatures carries no risk of fire if the equipment is properly maintained. The heaters are not put inside the home but rather the hot air is ducted in from the outside. That ensures the heat source is not in the home. Flammable liquids should be removed before the treatment as a precaution.
Safety Measures
To minimize damage and ensure safety during a thermal heat treatment:
Preparation:
Clear the room of sensitive items before the treatment begins. 120 Pest will always review in detail the prep sheet. We also require an in home consultation so we can see your home and talk specifically about your items.
Professional Help:
Always hire experienced pest control professionals who know how to safely perform thermal heat treatments. Doing a your own heat treatment can lead to damage of personal property if you are not careful.
Follow Instructions:
Listen carefully to any instructions given by the experts to protect yourself and your home.
The Most Common Items Damaged in a Thermal Heat Treatment.
Vinyl blinds:
Vinyl blinds can be easily damaged during a heat treatment. The fans will blow hot air and if the fan is too close to a blind or aimed at one it can cause it to droop. It is recommended to take down all the vinal blinds before a treatment.
Candles:
Candles are an item most damaged or that can cause damage. Candles will melt during a heat treatment. Not only will the candle become unusable but if it is not in a glass jar the wax can leak on furniture or walls. Candles have to be removed prior to the treatment.
This is a link to download a detailed prep sheet for a bed bug thermal heat treatment.
Conclusion
Bed bugs can be a nuisance, but with the right approach, they can be eliminated effectively using thermal heat treatments. These treatments harness the power of heat to eradicate bed bugs and their eggs, but they must be handled with care to avoid unintended damage. By understanding the process and potential risks involved, homeowners can make informed decisions about how best to tackle bed bug infestations and keep their homes safe and comfortable.
Remember, if you suspect a bed bug problem, don’t hesitate to reach out to 120 pest control professionals who can guide you through the best solution for your situation. With proper care and attention, you can say goodbye to bed bugs and enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep once again!
