Ultrasonic pest repellers are devices that were invented to keep unwanted pests away from your home. They make use of ultrasonic and electromagnetic waves in order to push away the pests from the atmosphere. The repellents can be used for all kinds of pests and are definitely a cleaner, or ‘greener’, option in comparison to normal pesticides.
While the sound that emits from this ultrasonic repellent goes undetected by humans, it is quite irritating to the pests that it is meant for. This, in turn, makes for an uninhabitable place for them and so they leave in pursuit of a safer home.
The devices have gained ample popularity for their successes. However, with the increased usage, there are also rising concerns about the side effects of these ultrasonic pest repellers. Scientists suggest that they might not be the best for humans and pets in the long term. Various studies by famous journals have been carried out to dig into the possible effects that the long term exposure of ultrasonic waves might have on the human auditory system.
To know more about the side effects of ultrasonic pest repellers as well as their possible solutions and recommendations, keep on reading.
- Wave Frequency
The ultrasonic pest repeller devices push out ultrasonic sound and electromagnetic waves into the atmosphere at frequencies that range from 25 kHz to 65kHz. This frequency, as stated earlier, goes unnoticed by humans, but is all the more annoying to the pests. Mice and rats are some good examples of this as they are very sensitive to the ultrasonic waves, hence being very bothered by them.
A study carried out by the Journal of the Acoustical Society of America found that the frequency range of 4 kHz to 5 kHz in ultrasonic waves did not lead to any visible side effects in around 50 participants, half of which were young, the other half middle-aged.
However, with the frequency range increased to 12-25 kHz, and the waves being emitted from two sources, the results showed that several participants now felt uneasy.
The authors of the study raised concerns that the increased domestic usage of ultrasonic pest repellents was giving way to the increased exposure of high frequencies of ultrasonic waves for all people and pets at home.
Therefore, it was suggested by them that care and consideration be factored into the usage of these repellents; meaning the dose should be decreased, and the devices are used only when and where they are required.
- Sound Sensitivity
As recommended by the author of the study mentioned above, better usage guidelines should be given on the label of these ultrasonic devices in order to equip the user with enough knowledge on the matter, especially those that have sensitive hearing. The product description should include all the warnings, suggestions, and tips that are necessary for the buyer to be aware of.
For those sensitive to sound, the long-term exposure to the waves and sounds emitted by these repellents can be quite unhealthy.
- Unsuitable for Pets
The hearing abilities of animals differ quite a bit from those of humans. They are able to detect and hear higher frequencies of waves and sounds. Consequently, although the waves are made to annoy pests and drive them away, your beloved household pets could also feel disturbed and annoyed by the same waves.
For this reason, it is advised that these products be used with utter care if you have pets living with you. Or actually not use an ultrasonic pest repellent altogether. There are several other options available in the market to get rid of pests.
- Other Options
The are many other methods and options that you could go for to get rid of pests from your home environment if you feel unsure about taking on the long-term risks of ultrasonic pest repellents. Considering the long-term risks of ultrasonic pest repellents, traditional pest management services can be used instead. Exterminators such as Pinnacle Pest will give you equally effective results if not better when it comes to pest infestations.
Focus on products that are well-rated, and many users have positive things to say about. Also, see for yourself what type of ingredients or technologies are used in its production and try to match it to the results they promise.
As the ultrasonic pest repellent technology is getting popular for its results in driving away pests, scientists are working hard to make sure it is safe for humans to use as well. Moreover, they are also trying to make the devices effective against pests that may be carriers of dangerous diseases.
In general, the devices using this technology undergo several tests and approval processes before being launched into the markets. For this reason, you do not need to be too wary, skeptical, or worrisome in regard to the product, especially if the one you bought is of a well-known brand.
To feel further satisfied with your choice of ultrasonic pest repellent, pay close attention to its label containing the information about the range of frequency it uses, as well as any warnings you should look out for. Some further research on the matter will only help you create a safe atmosphere for you and your pets; if you have any.
