One thing to note about this product is that if you have pets, it could potentially irritate them depending what setting the product is on. Is there a sonic detector I could use to check? Hi, According to studies, commercial ultrasonic repellents are mostly inefficient or tend to have a short impact on pests. With a little effort, I found at least four studies from 1995 to 2015 that tested the efficiency of ultrasonic pest repellents. For more information, read our Privacy Policy. Location of the deterrent plays a big factor in effectiveness. Ultrasonic repellents are devices that use ultrasonic sound waves to irritate pests and insects and prevent them from building nests or homes. 5. On their websites, these claims are often bolstered by fake positive product reviews by affiliate marketers who make money from each sale. These ultrasonic devices deter rodents, bats, rabbits, cats, dogs, skunks, opossums, armadillos, raccoons, deer, and insects. How It Works. The frequency on the device may need to be adjusted to effectively repel these pests. Results of the study: The results showed only marginal repellency effects and rapid habituation. With that said, let’s get started with the 10 best solar powered animal repellers and their reviews for 2020. Not exactly. Based on the lack of evidence provided by manufacturers, in 2001 the U.S. Federal Trade Commission sent a warning letter to more than 60 manufacturers in which they stated that manufacturers must support their claims with scientific evidence. Consumer Reports provided a list of five types of insect repellents that aren’t supported by evidence and therefore should be avoided. It would be wise to read product reviews from people with confirmed purchases. According to the product description, these sound waves cause an audiogenic seizure response (which may end in death); therefore, it prevents insects from building nests near the source of the noise. The answer is no; pest control can’t get rid of snakes. Hi Melissa. Ultrasonic repellents work differently than other deterrents. While the deterrent still requires a semi-enclosed space, the residential products are tailored towards balconies, awnings, and gardens. This page may contain affiliate links to our partner programs. Our product images feature what pests are deterred at what frequency. Here are some suggestions you should follow: Although ultrasonic pest repellents seem to be a solution to your pest-related problems, based on the research I have described in this blog post, I would not recommend buying one of these devices. For smaller scale use, there are residential ultrasonic products. Nowadays, ultrasonic pest repellents are part of a big business with more than 60 manufacturers/retailers and an estimated market value of $100 million. Your email address will not be published. Word of caution: There are lots of affiliate marketers who are doing “reviews,” but their primary task is to send you to the product page so that they can collect an affiliate fee. Ultrasonic devices work best in enclosed and semi-enclosed locations where sound waves can bounce off walls or ceilings. Ultrasonic frequencies travel in a linear line, so mount the speaker off the ground if pets are in the area. Also, if you take a look at the Kansas State University study described above (page 103 in the document), you’ll see that there are some “fair” and a couple of “good” results on some pests, such as crickets. Since most of them are sold at a reasonable price (from $10 to $50) and are very easy to use, it is tempting, as a consumer, to buy one, especially if your neighbor claims they have used one and “haven’t seen any mosquitoes for years.”. The infrared sensor detects motion and emits an ultrasonic frequency that animals can hear but people can’t. So, do ultrasonic pest repellents work? This is not actually a new approach since the ancient Chinese used sound waves for to keep insects out of their buildings, but in the mainstream, it mostly took root in the 1960s (the first device came from Philips in 1962). These devices are simple to use: just plug it into your home’s electrical outlet and sound waves are emitted. There are many bird and pest deterrents on the market, and with some research you will be able to find the best humane deterrent for your pest situation. The recommended place for reading the reviews is Amazon. Your email address will not be published. Do Ultrasonic Pest Repellents Work? An interesting thing they point out is that devices developed by researchers demonstrate positive results, but they have yet to be marketed.