Heat treatment kills bed bugs in a single day. Commercial heaters and fans warm the room while temperature sensors make sure the heat reaches inside mattresses, sofa cushions and along the walls. Most Vista homes can be used again by evening.
How Heat Kills Bed Bugs
Bed bugs and eggs cannot survive high temperatures held for long enough. Heat works on every life stage at the same time, and bugs cannot become resistant to it. Crews generally hold the coolest parts of a room at around 120°F or more for a set period, and they turn mattresses and move cushions so no spot stays cool.
Step by Step
- PrepYou take out heat-sensitive items. The crew places heaters, fans and wireless sensors.
- Warm upRooms rise to target temperature over a few hours.
- HoldThe crew watches the readings and repositions items so the heat reaches everywhere.
- FinishThe rooms cool, results are checked and a residual product is often applied at edges.
Heat Treatment in Vista Homes
Heat is popular with Vista families who would rather not use pesticides where children sleep. In homes built in the 1950s through the 1970s, the crew will check the electrical panel and plan the heater layout around older circuits. In duplexes and apartments, they will talk about shared walls and whether the next unit needs attention too.
What to Remove Before Heat
- Candles, crayons, lipstick, aerosol cans, medicines, vinyl records, houseplants and pets.
- Anything the crew lists as heat sensitive, such as some electronics or instruments.
- Leave bedding and clothes in place unless told otherwise.
- Open drawers and closet doors so warm air can circulate.
Questions About Heat Treatment
Can I get the same result with a space heater?
No. The EPA warns that household heaters cannot heat a whole room evenly enough to kill bed bugs, and they are a fire risk.
Do I need to wash everything first?
Usually not. The heat treats clothes and bedding left in the room. Follow the crew's prep list, which will tell you what to remove.
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 Vista. That company inspects, quotes and does the work.