How to Prepare for Bed Bug Heat Treatment
Bed bugs are becoming an increasing problem in the United States, and if you’re unlucky enough to have them in your home, you’ll want to know how to treat them. Heat treatment is a safe and effective way of exterminating bed bugs using heat. In this article, we’ll discuss what bed bug heat treatment is, how to prepare for it, and what to expect after the service is complete.
What is Bed Bug Heat Treatment?
In the United States, bed bugs have become a growing problem. These tiny insects feed on human blood and can cause a number of problems, including itchiness, redness, and swelling. Unfortunately, bed bugs are also difficult to get rid of. Traditional methods, such as spraying insecticides or using dusts, are often ineffective.
A more effective method is bed bug heat treatment. This involves raising the temperature in an infested area to a level that is lethal to bed bugs. The exact temperature required depends on the type of bed bug, but is usually between 118 and 122 degrees Fahrenheit.
Heat treatment can be performed using a portable heater or by bringing in a specialized heating unit. It is important to ensure that the entire infested area is heated evenly to ensure maximum effectiveness. Heat treatment is a safe and effective way to get rid of these pesky insects once and for all.
Preparing for Service
For the most part, heat treatment is a hands-off process for the residents, but there are some steps that will need to be taken. Before your heat treatment begins, here are a few things you may need to do to prepare. Always check with your extermination company about their specific policies and procedures, this list is simply a guideline.
Items to Move
The following is a list of items that will not be able to withstand the rising temperatures during heat treatment, and could either damage the item, your property, or pose a threat to the technicians servicing your home:
- Pets, including fish
- House plants
- Fresh food
- Medications
- Pressurized and aerosol items (spray paint, soda, fire extinguishers, oxygen tanks, etc.)
- Flammable items (solvents, chemicals like bleach or ammonia, fireworks, etc.)
- Alcohol
- Firearms and ammunition
- Items that are likely to melt, such as candles, wax figures, cosmetics, etc.
Items to Leave
The following items may seem counterintuitive to leave behind, but they are common hiding places for bed bugs. Refer to your exterminators for their specific instructions on each.
- Clothing
- Luggage
- Beds and bedding- moving these may spread the infestation to other areas of the home.
Sentimental or Valuable Items
While you may be tempted to take your most prized possessions with you during heat treatment, it is best to leave these items behind. The high temperatures can damage or warp many items, including:
- Photographs
- Books
- Artwork
- Electronics
- Any other items that cannot be replaced
Preparing for bed bug heat treatment doesn’t have to be difficult. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your treatment is as effective as possible.
What to Expect After Service
Once the heat treatment is complete, there are a few things you can expect. First, all of the bed bugs will be dead. This includes any eggs that may have been laid. Second, your home will be hot. The temperature will gradually return to normal, but it is important to avoid opening doors or windows for at least an hour after treatment. This will help to prevent bed bugs from re-entering your home.
Finally, you may see bed bugs in the days and weeks following treatment. This is because bed bugs can live for up to a year without feeding. However, they will eventually die off.
If you have any questions or concerns about bed bug heat treatment, be sure to contact your exterminator. They will be able to answer any questions you may have and help you get the best possible results.
Smoke Out Bed Bugs With Bed Bug Barbeque
If you’re looking for an effective bed bug heat treatment, look no further than Bed Bug Barbeque. Our heating units are specifically designed to kill bed bugs and their eggs, and our experienced technicians will make sure the entire area is heated evenly. Want a free inspection? Contact us today!
