Plug-in Devices to Keep Pests Out of Your Home

Most people do not have an affinity for bugs or rodents and want them out of their homes.  Several pest deferral products are available on the market such as baits, traps and pesticides.  However, these are sometimes unattractive options due to the hazards they may pose to humans. A plug-in pest repellent is another option with little risk to wanted home occupants.

A plug-in pest repellent is a device that uses either high-frequency sound waves or vibrations. If sound waves are used, they are ultrasonic, meaning that they are inaudible to humans. Pets may be able to hear at these sound frequencies, but these devices are considered safe for pets because they cause no harm to them. The belief is that because rodents and insects are frightened by loud or unfamiliar sounds they will be frightened away. Vibrations are sometimes used through electromagnetic signals that send pulsating waves through the electrical wiring of the home. These vibrations are supposed to be able to form a shield around the house, discouraging pests from entering the home.

Much controversy surrounds these products, as their effectiveness is questionable.  While rodents and insects may initially be frightened away, they have the ability to quickly adapt to sounds and vibrations and thus will eventually no longer be bothered by the noise or pulsation. It should also be noted that most insects and animals hear and feel the same range of frequencies we do. If it doesn’t bother us, it most likely isn’t bothering them. While it may cause a slight disturbance to them, it may not be enough of a motive for most pests to leave the comfort of a nice, comfy house with plenty of food and warmth. 

While this type of pest management may be completely safe for humans and their pets, it may also be entirely harmless to pests as well.  New plug-in devices are designed to emit fluctuating frequencies so that pests cannot get used to the sounds. However, little scientific evidence is used to back the effectiveness of these products.