Not every pest control tool is made equal, and not all are as effective as advertised. Ultrasonic pest control plug-in devices are a common household device that may not be worth having. Generally, they are marketed to repel rodents, insects, and other pests. So why don’t they work? And why can they be harmful to your family?

Why Ultrasonic Plug-in Devices Don’t Work as Intended

Ultrasonic noise repellents are at best, a temporary solution. Most animals that would be repelled by ultrasonic noise can quickly learn that the device isn’t harming them, and will continue to intrude. If anything, a sound may cause a rodent to simply hurry. If the sound is continuous or on a timed release, an animal may just endure it to proceed. In the case of mice and other rodents, they may find other places in the house to hide out.

Pet Distress

While a wild animal may evade a noise or approach from a different angle, pets living with an ultrasonic device nearby may become distressed by it. Dogs and cats can be especially sensitive to the high-pitched noise. Animals left in cages or tanks may not be able to move away from the noise and can cause further distress. Signs of distress in pets may include more vocalization, nervousness, and confusion.

Human Health and Ultrasonic Noise

While Ultrasonic devices make noise beyond what most humans can hear, prolonged exposure can still cause side effects. Ultrasonic noise can affect your hearing, as well as other functions of the body. According to the National Library of Medicine, prolonged exposure to ultrasonic noise can cause hearing loss, tinnitus, sleeplessness, migraines, dizzy spells, and fainting.

Placebo Effect of Repellent Devices

If you don’t have evidence of pests in your home, you probably don’t need a repellent device. Installing one without cause could, in theory, help with deterring pests, but probably not. If you have a true pest problem, you should contact a professional wildlife removal specialist, instead of relying on an ultrasonic device that might not work as effectively as you’d like.

We specialize in the humane removal of raccoons, rats, squirrels, and other pests in the New York/New Jersey area. For a complete inspection and evaluation please contact us or call us at 718-227-7227 and we will be happy to make an appointment at your convenience.