Bed bugs are small, parasitic insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals. They are called bed bugs because they are often found in beds, but they can also be found in other areas of the home where people sleep or rest. Bed bugs are a nuisance and can be difficult to get rid of, as they are skilled at hiding and can survive for long periods without food.
If you have a bed bug infestation in your home, you may be considering a heat treatment as a way to get rid of the bugs. Heat treatment involves using high temperatures to kill bed bugs and their eggs. It is a popular method of pest control because it is effective and does not require the use of chemicals. But what is the bed bug heat treatment cost in London, and is it more expensive than other areas of the country?
Does Bed Bug Heat Treatment Cost More in London than Other Areas of the Country?
The cost of bed bug heat treatment in London can vary depending on the size of your home, the severity of the infestation, and the company you hire to do the treatment. On average, you can expect to pay between £500 and £1,500 for heat treatment in London.
It is worth noting that the cost of bed bug heat treatment in London may be higher than in other areas of the country. This is because London is a large, densely populated city with a high demand for pest control services. Companies may charge more for their services in order to cover their higher operating costs in the city.
However, it is important to remember that the cost of bed bug heat treatment should not be the only factor you consider when choosing a pest control company. It is important to choose a reputable, experienced company that will do a thorough job of eliminating the infestation. While it may be tempting to choose the cheapest option, this could end up costing you more in the long run if the treatment is not effective.
How Does Bed Bug Heat Treatment Work?
Heat treatment involves using specialized equipment to heat the affected area to a temperature that is lethal to bed bugs and their eggs. The temperature required to kill bed bugs and their eggs is typically between 50 and 60 degrees Celsius.
Before the heat treatment begins, the pest control company will ask you to prepare your home by removing any clutter and washing and drying your bedding and clothing on a high heat setting. This will help to ensure that all bed bugs and eggs are exposed to the heat and can be killed.
During the treatment, the pest control company will use specialized equipment to heat the affected area to the required temperature. This can be done using portable heaters, heat lamps, or hot air blowers. The treatment typically takes several hours to complete and may need to be repeated to ensure that all bed bugs and eggs are eliminated.
After the heat treatment is complete, the pest control company will conduct a thorough inspection of your home to ensure that the infestation has been eliminated. They may also provide you with advice on how to prevent future infestations.
How to Prepare for Bed Bug Heat Treatment
If you are considering heat treatment for a bed bug infestation in your home, it is important to prepare your home properly before the treatment begins. This will help to ensure that the treatment is as effective as possible and will minimize the risk of future infestations.
Here are some steps you can take to prepare your home for bed bug heat treatment:
- Remove clutter: Bed bugs like to hide in small, dark spaces. To ensure that all bed bugs and eggs are exposed to the heat, it is important to remove any clutter from your home. This includes items like piles of clothing, books, and papers.
- Wash and dry bedding and clothing: Before the heat treatment begins, you should wash and dry all of your bedding and clothing on a high heat setting. This will kill any bed bugs or eggs that may be hiding in these items.
- Remove or cover sensitive items: Some items, such as electronics and plants, may be sensitive to high temperatures. To protect these items, you should either remove them from the affected area or cover them with a protective layer.
- Seal any cracks or crevices: Bed bugs are skilled at hiding in small cracks and crevices. To help prevent them from hiding and surviving the heat treatment, you should seal any cracks or crevices in your walls, floors, or furniture.
- Follow the pest control company’s instructions: The pest control company you hire to conduct the heat treatment will provide you with specific instructions on how to prepare your home. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure that the treatment is as effective as possible.
Conclusion
Bed bug heat treatment is a popular and effective method of pest control for eliminating bed bug infestations. In London, you can expect to pay between £500 and £1,500 for heat treatment, although the cost may be higher in other areas of the country. To prepare for heat treatment, it is important to remove clutter, wash and dry bedding and clothing, cover or remove sensitive items, seal any cracks or crevices, and follow the pest control company’s instructions. Overall, while bed bug heat treatment can be expensive, it is a necessary step in getting rid of bed bugs and ensuring that they do not return.
