Bed Bug Control: Heat as an Eradication Tool

Household pests are a serious issue, and an infestation can not only be frustrating but may pose health risks too. Persistent bed bug problems have been reported in many states over the last few years and effective bed bug control has become a concern for many homeowners.

Although there are three different species of bed bugs, the most common household pest is the Cimex lectularius which is prevalent in the US and in a number of tropical countries. These annoying biters require blood for nourishment and reproduction, and although their bites are not painful, they can result in reddish welts that cause irritation and rashes. In addition to disruption of a balanced sleep routine, persistent infestation results in elevated feeding patterns that cause increased blood loss resulting in anemia and frequent debilitation or generalized weakness. These household pests are also known to harbor a range of infectious agents and parasitic worms including a range of bacteria and protozoans. However, current research does not conclusively establish that they transmit diseases in humans, although the risks may exist.

A range of pest control measures have been used, and for decades, the conventional eradication procedure was fumigation. The use of chemical repellants and insecticides, however, present a series of undesirable side effects in people, and more importantly the chemical residue continues to pose serious health hazards even after the pest infestation have been eliminated. In addition, research proves that pesticides and fumigants are more often than not ineffective and the outcome is momentary since in most cases the bugs just come right back once the initial intensity of the air-borne chemical drops.

Chemicals such as methyl bromide and other toxic fumigants have been long seen as injurious to humans and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that use of safer alternatives. A number of pest control services have been adopting other extermination techniques, the most effective of which is thermal treatment. Heat is one of the most reliable eradication systems, and is not only safe but organic too. Thermal pest management does not leave behind any chemical residue or disagreeable odors making it the ideal pest control option for homes and commercial complexes alike. 

Heat can penetrate into even those areas that chemicals may not be able to, which removes the need for frequent reapplication in order to keep the bugs away. In addition, thermal flow can also be localized into a specific zone so that a high intensity of heat focused on to the specific areas can ensure complete pest eradication. When looking for services that offer bed bug control, be sure that the exterminator is licensed and employs trained professionals who understand effective pest management techniques. Experienced services use a range of electric and gas heaters for full-strength heat discharge or steam heaters and similar equipment for indirect heat transfer.

There is little doubt that thermal bed bug control is fast becoming the most secure pest eradication technique that offers consistent results. With no residual chemicals even after the pests are eliminated successfully, homeowners can be reassured that the procedure is non-toxic yet efficient in the long run.