Heat is one of the fastest ways to end a bed bug problem. The crew brings in commercial heaters and fans, and sensors track temperatures inside mattresses, cushions and along walls. Many Alamo homes are ready to use again the same evening.
Why Heat Works
Bed bugs and their eggs die when they are held at high temperature long enough, and they cannot develop resistance to heat the way they can to some sprays. Crews generally hold the coolest spot in each room at about 120°F or more, flipping mattresses and pulling cushions so no layer stays cool.
How the Day Runs
- PrepHeat-sensitive items come out, and heaters, fans and probes are placed.
- Ramp upRooms climb to the target temperature over several hours.
- HoldTechnicians watch readings and move items so nothing stays cool.
- Wrap upAfter cooling, the crew checks for survivors and may apply a residual along baseboards.
Heat in Alamo Estate Homes
High ceilings, big open rooms and separate guest buildings take more equipment and more time to heat. Ask the company how many heaters it will bring, whether it plans zones, and whether it needs its own generator. Wine storage, art and musical instruments should be discussed before the day, since some need to leave the heated area.
Remove These Beforehand
- Candles, cosmetics, crayons, aerosol cans, medicines, houseplants and pets.
- Wine, artwork, instruments and anything that could warp or melt.
- Electronics or other items on the crew's checklist.
- Clothing and bedding in the rooms usually stay put so the heat can treat them too.
Questions About Heat Treatment
Can a large house be heated in one day?
Often, but not always. Crews may split a big home or a main house plus cottage into zones and heat them in turns, so ask how long each zone will take.
Will turning the thermostat all the way up work?
No. The EPA warns that household heating cannot get a room evenly hot enough to kill bed bugs, and space heaters can start fires.
How your call is handled: Bed Bug Control CA is a free referral service. When you call or send the form, you are connected with an independent, licensed pest control company that serves Alamo. That company inspects, quotes and does the work.