How to Prevent Pests from Eating House Wiring

Pests that damage house wiring are not only a nuisance, but also dangerous. Some of the most common culprits in homes are rats, squirrels and house mice. These animals gnaw on the wiring insulation, leaving it exposed. This may lead to serious fires and electrical hazards in your home. You can keep pests away from the wiring in your home by following a few simple steps.

Step 1 – Look for Signs of an Infestation

Droppings are the most credible sign of a pest infestation. Mice droppings tend to smaller than rat and squirrel droppings. Mice and rat droppings can be found in closed spaces and near sources of food and water. Squirrels are generally found in attics of buildings, where they strip wood and wiring to eat and also to build nests. Chances are you may also see the pests invading your home. If there is any sign of an infestation, take prompt steps for removal.

Step 2 – Use Bait and Other Methods of Trapping

For a mice or rat infestation, you can place some peanut butter inside a trap. It works very well as a bait for these pests, and may also entice squirrels. However, trapping of squirrels is prohibited by law in many localities. If you have a squirrel infestation, you may have to consult local authorities about trapping and taking away the squirrels. Consulting a professional pest control officer ensures efficient and humane removal of squirrels. Avoid using poison in the vicinity of young children and pets. If you use poison, there is also a chance that the animals may die in an enclosed space, where the body will decay.

Step 3 – Close Points of Entry to the House

Rats, mice and squirrels gain entry to your home if there are gaps and openings. Close all such openings with foam or wire mesh. You may have to use plaster for large openings. Squirrels can also gain entry inside through chimneys and openings on the top of the house. Ensure that there are no tree branches hanging over your roof. Avoid leaving sources of food in accessible areas. If you have a bird feeder outdoors, change its location so that it is inaccessible to squirrels or rats. There are also different types of squirrel-proof bird feeders available, which can keep squirrels away from the grains. Avoiding feeding squirrels in your backyard, as they will inevitably return looking for food.

Step 4 – Prevent Future Infestations

To keep your house wiring safe, it is necessary to ensure that your home is safe from future infestations. Ensure that there it is free of the smallest openings, because mice can enter through minute cracks and holes. Any missing bricks must be promptly replaced. Ensure that your home is clear of all pests before you block all the gaps. If you block all openings when there are some pests remaining indoors, there is a chance they may die indoors and decay, which can be a major problem.