Buying guide for Best ultrasonic pest repellers
If you’re looking for a simple, non-chemical way to deter mice and bugs from squatting in your home, an ultrasonic pest repeller is an appealing alternative to pest-control services or dangerous chemical traps.
These devices repel pests that are capable of hearing ultrasonic frequencies, but fortunately, human ears can’t hear the sounds. Make your dwelling less attractive to creepy crawlies and ward off disease-spreading rodents and insects from your kitchen, attic, and walls with noise-free ultrasonic repellers.
How do ultrasonic pest repellers work?
These devices deter pests with ultra-high-frequency sound, frequencies higher than 20,000 hertz. Humans can’t hear the sound emitted by these devices, but some animals and insects are fully capable of picking up ultrasonic sound waves. The high-pitched sound ranges from irritating to deadly, depending on the critter and the strength of the device in question. Ultrasonic devices are powered by electricity and available in plug-in or battery-operated models.
It’s important to note that this type of device is not effective against all pests. Certain insects, like ants, are more resilient than others when it comes to ultrasonic frequencies. Some studies have also shown that ultrasonic repellers may even attract critters (such as mosquitos) into your dwelling. Correct positioning and use of these units is the best way to maximize effectiveness, but don’t think of it as an instant solution to pest problems. It takes time for repellers of this type to produce a measurable effect.
We look at indoor and outdoor models. Outdoor models should be waterproof.
When researching pest repellers, we note their targets, such as insects, rodents, or larger animals.
Because ultrasonic pest repellers can’t work through walls, you’re likely to need more than one. We consider how many units (two, four, or six) come in each pack.
We note each repeller’s power source. Although most are plug-ins, a few brands offer corded models. These cover more ground but are less convenient.
Pest repellers emit ultrasound via speakers. The more speakers a unit has, the greater its coverage is.
We investigate each repeller’s ultra-high-frequency sound to help determine how well they work. Quality models should give off frequencies higher than 20,000 hertz. Typically, bigger repellers emit higher frequencies.
Not every repeller offers an on/off button, but it’s a convenient feature that lets you keep it plugged in but not always on.
Some ultrasonic pest repellers offer nightlights. This doesn’t affect the quality of the repeller, but it’s a nice-to-have feature if you’re using it inside and want to avoid turning lights on.
Pests can grow accustomed to a high-frequency noise, so a pest repeller that can vary its sound is likely to be more effective.
We note models that pair ultrasonic technology with electromagnetic frequencies (pulses that are sent to the pest’s nervous system) for dual protection.
Ultrasonic pest repellers vs. other pest-control methods
Why choose an ultrasonic unit over poison or traps? Here are the main pros and cons of this type of product.
Pros:
-
Affordable: These devices are inexpensive compared to professional pest-control services.
-
Long lasting: There’s no need to replace the repellers. Once you choose a set, you’ll be able to use your ultrasonic devices as often as you want.
-
Safer than chemicals: Worried about exposing your children or furry pals to toxic substances like rat poison? Ultrasonic devices are nontoxic and pose no threat to human health.
-
Can be used anywhere: As long as you have an outlet, you can use a repeller wherever you need it. You can’t do that with mousetraps or rat poison.
-
Mess-free: Traps and poison kill pests inside your home and could leave you with lingering smells. Ultrasonic devices are designed to keep the pests out of the home.
-
Simple to use: There’s no setup required. Just plug in a unit and forget about it.
Cons:
-
Not always effective: There are conditions that can alter the efficacy and interfere with the performance of ultrasonic devices.
-
Doesn’t work on all pests: Not all insects and animals are deterred by this type of product.
- Limited range: Furniture and walls block sound waves, so you need multiple devices for full coverage of your home.
Expert Tip
Use traps in conjunction with ultrasonic devices for maximum effectiveness.
STAFF
BestReviews
Types of ultrasonic pest repellers
You can select an ultrasonic pest repeller according to the pests it deters, the kind of environment it’s designed for, or the power source.
Pests
Some repellers are designed to deter specific types of pests, such as insects or rodents. Others are designed to target all the nasty critters that might invade your property. Larger repellers are made to control deer and cat populations.
Location
You can choose a pest repeller to use outdoors or indoors. Weatherproof and waterproof outdoor units are used to repel critters like squirrels and chipmunks. Avoid using a unit outdoors if your pest problem is mainly indoors. You might drive unwanted critters into your home!
Power
The most common are plug-in units. These are small, unobtrusive, and easy to plug into any electrical outlet around your house. Corded options are bigger and usually provide more coverage, but you’ll need an accessible outlet nearby. If you don’t have a conveniently located electrical outlet, a battery-operated pest repeller makes it easy to place a unit anywhere in your home.
Consider these factors
Your expectations
It’s important to be realistic. This type of device won’t wholly eliminate unwanted pests from your home, and it can’t repel every kind of critter. It’s also not a long-term solution. Some pests could become accustomed to the high-frequency sound over time. If you have a severe pest problem, an ultrasonic device isn’t a practical solution. High-frequency-emitting devices are best for controlling light pest issues and preventing bugs and rodents from taking up residence in your home in the first place.
Strength and coverage
For the most part, a larger repeller is stronger and provides more coverage. Correctly placing the repeller will maximize its performance. An incorrectly placed unit, regardless of size, won’t work as well. The sound emitted by these devices doesn’t travel through walls. If mice are devouring the contents of your pantry, the repeller won’t be useful if you stick it in the basement. You’ll probably need multiple repellers for maximum coverage. Ultrasonic pest repellers are often sold in packs of two, four, or six because they’re more effective if spread throughout the home.
Did you know?
Carpeting in rooms could reduce the performance of your ultrasonic pest repeller, as can thick window treatments.
STAFF
BestReviews
Ultrasonic pest repeller features to consider
Nightlight
Some units double as nightlights. Place these in your hallway or kitchen so you won’t need to flip on the light when grabbing a snack in the middle of the night.
Speakers
The ultrasonic sound is emitted through speakers. Units can have up to three speakers. For greater coverage, choose a model with more speakers.
Sound variance
To prevent pests from growing accustomed to the high-frequency noise, choose a unit that varies the sound. It’ll be tough for rodents and bugs to get used to the noise if it keeps changing.
Electromagnetic technology
Some units combine ultrasonic and electromagnetic frequencies for maximum effectiveness. Electromagnetic technology is capable of penetrating walls and other obstacles. The pulses emitted target the nervous system of nasty household pests.
Ultrasonic pest repeller prices
The cost of an ultrasonic unit depends on the brand, coverage provided, and how many different pests it repels. Most repellers come in packs containing two, four, or six units and cost less than $40. The priciest options are designed for outdoor use, and most of these cost less than $60.
FAQ
Q. Where should I put my repeller?
A. Choose an open area for best results. Furniture and walls can stop the transmission of high-frequency sound waves. If you’re putting one in your living room, for example, avoid positioning it behind the couch.
Q. Will an ultrasonic device harm beneficial insects?
A. Since they’re typically designed for use indoors, you shouldn’t be too worried about harming the good bugs outside your home. The ultra-high-frequency sound waves can’t travel through walls. Many beneficial insects are sensitive to ultra-high-frequency sounds, so using an outdoor unit could harm the good bugs around your yard. We don’t recommend using an ultrasonic device outdoors for this reason.
Q. Is it safe to use an ultrasonic pest repeller around children and pets?
A. Humans can’t hear ultrasonic sounds, but some pets might be sensitive to certain frequencies. Dogs and cats should be fine around these devices, but smaller mammals like pet hamsters and mice shouldn’t be housed near an ultrasonic pest repeller. Birds might also be susceptible to high-frequency noises. Carefully read manufacturer guidelines to make sure your furry and feathered friends stay safe.
Q. Can I use an ultrasonic device both indoors and outdoors?
A. Most indoor units aren’t designed for outdoor use, and vice versa.
Q. How long will it take to see a reduction of pests in my home?
A. It can take as little as a week or as long as a month. The length of time it takes to reduce the pest population in your home depends on the level of infestation and the strength of the device(s) used.
