Some homeowners try electronic repellents to control pest infestations.
Homeowners occasionally deal with a pest infestation, whether in their home, yard or on their pets. An electronic pest repellent looks like a non-toxic, mess-free solution, but there are questions about their effectiveness. These electronic repellents come in a variety of forms, depending on their purpose. Examples include outdoor hanging lanterns, flea collars for pets and plug-in devices for the home. Does this Spark an idea?
How They Work
Electronic pest repellents emit very high- or low-frequency signals, sounds or vibrations. These frequency can not be detected by the human ear. Manufacturers claim these sounds irritate pests, causing them to abandon an area, or even die in some cases. These devices do not bother humans or pets, according to manufacturers of such items.
Types and Variations
Electronic pest repellent devices differ in their exact mode of operation, with options including vibrations, sound and electromagnetic versions. Subsonic devices are a new form of the same basic idea, with manufacturers claiming that they emit sounds through electrical wiring in a home, repelling insects and other pests. Devices vary in their intensity, rate and signal frequencies used.
Effectiveness
These products do not appear effective in repelling insects or reducing the number of pests found in an area in most cases, according to North Carolina Cooperative Extension. Some products on the market appear effective in reducing rodent populations, but many do not. With no standard for effectiveness levels of these products, this leaves consumers without any means of comparison when purchasing these devices. Ask for details on how devices work before purchasing them and read research studies on the effectiveness of particular approaches, advises Texas A&M University.
Other Considerations
The safety of repellent devices for humans presents concern for some homeowners. The products are not considered harmful to humans or pose any danger, according to the University of Nebraska. If rodent repellents proved effective however, they would likely bother or kill hamsters, gerbils and other rodent pets in the household, warns Washington State University Extension.
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