Preparing your home for a heat treatment is very important, especially when it comes to electronics. All electronics such as TV’s, computers/laptops etc. need to be unplugged with the exception of the appliances such as stove, refrigerator, microwave and washer/dryer to prevent any damage from occurring. Appliances are designed to withstand higher temperatures.
Why is it important to unplug all electronic devices during a heat treatment?
Bed bugs may crawl inside electronic devices to find a safe, warm and dark place to hide. During a heat treatment, when the bed bugs die, they will release all of their bodily fluids which will essentially cause the electronic device to short out.
Remove Plasma TVs From Treatment Area
While plasma TVs are able to operate in uncomfortably warm temperatures, product experts don’t recommend this because it shortens their lifespan. The operating temperature range for plasma TVs should be between 32 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit. They should be able to function normally anywhere within this range, although temperatures closer to room temperature are recommended for product longevity. Plasma TVs generate a lot of heat on their own, so they are built with internal cooling systems. The warmer a TV’s surrounding temperature or the less ventilation it has, the harder it has to work to cool off. Excessive use of the cooling system and excessive heat wears down the TV’s electronic components and ages the whole device faster. Additionally, in extreme temperatures, the plasma gel overheats and causes the glass screen to crack.
For more information on how to properly prepare for a bed bug heat treatment click here.