Do Electronic Pest Controllers Really Work?

Electronic pest controllers are available as ultrasonic or subsonic devices that are supposed to repel pests and rodents, while causing no harm to household pets, such as gerbils, hamsters, dogs and cats.

  1. Legal

    • The Federal Trade Commission has disputed the claims of effectiveness of electronic pest controllers, saying they have no basis in scientific research. Between 1985 and 1997, the FTC brought six law enforcement actions against the manufacturers and retailers of electronic pest controllers. Washington State University Extension reports the state of Texas has banned the sale of one type of electronic pest controller because of its failure to work as advertised.

    Frequency

    • According to Washington State University, the frequency strength of electronic pest controllers diminishes as it is sent out from a speaker, with about half of the frequency strength lost after it travels 15 feet. All the frequency strength is lost 30 feet from the speaker or outlet used by the electronic pest controller.

    Sound

    • Electronic pest controllers are available in ultrasonic and subsonic models, according to Washington State University Extension. Manufacturers say ultrasonic pest controllers emit a high-pitched sound that kills or drives away pests, such as fleas and rodents. Subsonic types emit a low frequency sound or vibration that uses the wiring of a house to create a protective shield against pests.