Heat treatment can clear bed bugs in one day. Commercial heaters and fans bring each room up to temperature, and sensors placed in mattresses, cushions and wall edges confirm the heat has reached every hiding place. Most Del Mar homes can be used again by that evening.
Why Heat Is So Effective
Bed bugs and eggs die when kept at a high temperature for long enough, and unlike chemicals, heat is something they cannot build resistance to. Crews usually keep the coolest spots in the room at about 120°F or higher for a set time, turning mattresses and shifting cushions so heat passes through everything.
How Treatment Day Runs
- Set upHeat-sensitive items are taken out, and heaters, fans and sensors go in.
- Warm upThe rooms climb to the target temperature over a few hours.
- HoldThe crew watches the readings and moves items so heat reaches every corner.
- Cool downRooms cool, results are checked, and a residual product may go along edges.
Heat Treatment in Del Mar Homes
Rental owners like heat because the home can go back on the calendar soon, and it also suits older residents, since it usually involves less bagging and moving than chemical work. Most homes in 92014 went up between the 1950s and 1970s, so expect the crew to look at the electrical panel before setting up heaters.
Take These Out Beforehand
- Candles, crayons, cosmetics, aerosol cans, medicines, plants and pets.
- Oil paintings, vinyl records and anything else that can warp or melt.
- Items on the crew's list, which may include some electronics.
- Clothing and bedding usually stay in the room unless the crew says otherwise.
Questions About Heat Treatment
Will there be a smell after heat treatment?
Normally no, since heat adds no chemicals. If the crew also applies a residual product along edges, they will say so and explain any odor.
Could I just turn the heater up high?
No. The EPA warns that a home furnace or space heater cannot heat a room evenly enough to kill bed bugs and can create a fire risk.
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 Del Mar. That company inspects, quotes and does the work.