The Basics
Despite the extreme difficulties encountered when treating bed bugs, heat is a very effective method of treatment. When properly done, heat treatments yield a 100% success rate because, unlike other treatment methods, heat can permeate carpets, base boards, upholstered furniture, etc.
Scientists have determined the approximate temperatures at which bed bugs and their eggs die. Generally, bed bugs and their eggs die within 90 minutes at 118°F and immediately at temperatures in excess of 122°F. For this reason and for thoroughness, we recommend treating each room for at least 6 hours after the temperature in the room reaches 118°F. Our heaters have an internal thermostat and we provide a handheld temperate gauge to further monitor the temperature during treatment. The heater system also includes powerful fans to create convection currents within the heated room during the treatment. These currents help to heat the bed bugs more rapidly, increasing their mortality.