Case Study 6 – Heat Treatments

Heat treatments are a chemical-free method of pest control used to treat many pests by raising the temperature of an affected room. We are specialists in heat treatment for several pests, including bed bugs and plaster beetles, and we can also deal with mould-related issues.

Insects, just like us, are made up of proteins. Even enzymes are proteins, and the nature of that protein and its DNA determines its place and function in the body. When a cell is heated up to around 45°C or more, that DNA starts to break down, and so the cell ceases to function as it should.

In laboratory studies, you will see all sorts of claims for percentage kill rates of different species of insect for various times and temperatures. But to deliver full control, you need a target temperature of 50°C for two hours or 52°C for one hour. This needs to be on the insect and not just in the room or environment being treated.

HPC247 are the number one choice for many housing associations, hotels, and organisations within the hospitality industry. We have a dedicated team of heat treatment specialists.

The flat pictured had a serious bed bug issue. Within 24 hours, our treatment had proven to be successful, and after several follow-up visits, no more bed bugs were found on the premises.

As a customer, you can expect our services to involve the following:

• A full, in-depth telephone appraisal of the situation – we’ll discuss how long it’s been going on for and provide information concerning treatment options.
• A detailed preparation checklist of things you must do before the treatment.
• Unless it’s a small job, the team should comprise two trained operatives, simply because one person cannot easily handle proper equipment.
• A detailed survey, not only of the infested rooms but also of adjacent or linking areas, to establish the spread of the infestation and the possible source.
• Complementary techniques such as physical removal methods (harvesting), the application of safe insecticidal sprays with strong residual qualities and the use of dust.
• Clients should to clear loose objects in rooms and wash or tumble dry clothing at 60°C or more.
• Risk items identified and removed or protected. All items should be covered in a preparation document to be signed prior to treatment taking place.
• A thermology graph of the temperatures the system’s sensors achieved and where they are located – This will show if the supplier is just measuring air temperature or those all-important cold spots.
• Notification that nobody can guarantee 100% pest elimination. We all strive for 100% control, and with the right cooperation from clients, that goal can be achieved.