When evaluating bed bug heat treatment options, the type of equipment used is crucial for effectiveness and results. Many competitors mention “heat treatment” or “thermal treatment” without specifying the equipment they use, often because they rely on inferior systems. Heat Assault stands out as the premier solution, and here’s why:
Electric heaters, often costing around $25,000-$30,000, are commonly used by pest control companies due to their low cost and ease of deployment. However, they come with significant drawbacks:
High Power Consumption: One heater requires nearly all the power output of your home’s electrical system, providing only 36K-70K BTUs. Using multiple heaters necessitates external generators, and even then, the combined heat output is insufficient for a modest 800-1000 sq. ft. home.
Inefficiency: Electric heaters are slow to reach the kill temperature of 120°F, taking over two hours and often topping out at 130°F. Eliminating bed bugs in a 2000 sq. ft. home can take nearly 24 hours.
Bed Bug Behavior: Slow-rising temperatures allow bed bugs time to sense danger and scatter, finding new hiding spots and making eradication more challenging.
Propane heaters, another option costing around $25,000-$30,000, also have significant limitations:
Efficiency with Risks: While efficient, these heaters expel CO2 and humidity, requiring good ventilation. They are hazardous in enclosed spaces and can damage property due to intense, concentrated heat (up to 900K BTUs).
Property Damage: Concentrated heat can melt fridge handles, warp vinyl flooring, and char wood furniture. Heating the entire home evenly is difficult, leading to uneven temperatures and potential damage.
Cleaner Air, Less Heat: Producing around 80K BTUs, these heaters require multiple units (at least eight) to match Heat Assault’s efficiency, needing 16 (20lb) propane tanks. Most companies only bring three units, resulting in uneven heat distribution and insufficient BTUs.
Logistical Challenges: Although safer for indoor use, their lower heat output and need for fresh air supply make them less effective for bed bug eradication.
Heat Assault’s system includes a 660K BTU self-enclosed boiler using food-grade glycol, providing a far more efficient and effective solution:
Precise Control: We control the glycol temperature between 205°F and 100°F based on the home’s size and insulation. The glycol is distributed to up to nine heaters, ensuring balanced heat throughout the home.
Rapid Heating: The system can elevate the ambient temperature to 120°F in less than 30 minutes and to 140°F in under an hour, depending on the home’s size and insulation. This rapid heating leaves no opportunity for bed bugs to escape.
Even Heat Distribution: Each heater’s maximum temperature can be set to ensure even distribution, with small rooms getting one heater and larger rooms (over 600 sq. ft.) getting two. This ensures that every corner of your home reaches the necessary 140°F, penetrating walls, furniture, electronics, closets, and dressers without causing damage.
Many competitors use inferior equipment, often electric or propane heaters, which are less effective and can result in property damage or incomplete eradication. Heat Assault, although more expensive (over $100,000), offers unparalleled precision, efficiency, and effectiveness.
Always ask about the equipment being used for bed bug treatment. Heat Assault’s superior system ensures rapid, even heating, leading to 100% eradication of bed bugs without damaging your property. This is why we chose Heat Assault as our preferred equipment for bed bug eradication.