Let’s face it. Bugs crawling in and out of your electrical outlets is a little creepy. But, if you think they’re harmless, think again. Bugs in and out of your electrical outlets could become a serious issue.
Fortunately, bug-proofing your outlets is a lot easier than you think. This article examines why bugs attract your outlets, the damage they can cause, and how to eliminate them.
Why Would Bugs Be Attracted to My Electrical Outlets?
While your electrical outlets may seem strange for your bugs to hide, they make a lot of sense when considering what they seek.
Warmth
When your devices and appliances are plugged in and running, they generate a small amount of heat. Although this heat would be too little to keep humans warm, it’s just enough to be comfortable for bugs like ants and cockroaches. These warm outlets provide a cozy, warm spot they can call home.
Darkness
Bugs are attracted to dark spots where they can nest and shelter undisturbed. A dark electrical outlet is the perfect space for this. Plus, the voids behind your walls allow them to spread out.
Moisture
Summers in Melbourne, FL, are hot and humid. This high humidity extends to electrical outlets, and the moisture buildup attracts moisture-loving bugs, such as silverfish and termites.
Grease or Food
In areas like the kitchen, you may be frustrated to find sugar ants trying to make a home in your electrical outlets. Besides the warmth and the darkness, sugar ants are attracted to the small traces of grease and food around your electrical outlets.
What Kind of Bugs Enter Electrical Outlets?
Are you appalled by the idea of bugs entering your electrical outlets? Not all bugs are attracted to these small, tight spaces. However, several culprits would love to make these outlets their home.
Ants
Ants are the most common bugs you’ll find invading your electrical outlets. They’re small enough to enter and exit without a problem. The darkness, shelter, and void in the walls are perfect places for them to start new colonies.
Cockroaches
Since cockroaches are nocturnal, they seek out dark hiding spots during the day. They can also squeeze into small spaces, making your electrical outlets a perfect nesting spot.
Termites
Termites like humid areas and wood. If you have wood within your walls and around your electrical outlets, your outlets may be the perfect shelter for these culprits.
Silverfish
Silverfish are moisture-loving bugs, always in search of a damp environment. If your outlet is in the bathroom or kitchen (near a water source), you may find clusters of silverfish making your electrical outlet their home.
Spiders
While spiders aren’t interested in living in your electrical outlets, they are interested in catching insects nesting there. So, if you see bugs coming in and out of your outlets, it’s more than likely you’ll also see a spider as well.
How Bugs Can Damage Your Electrical Outlets
Bugs aren’t just unsightly and a nuisance; they can damage your electrical outlets. Here are the different ways bugs can wreak havoc on your electrical system.
Wire Damage
Some bugs, such as termites or cockroaches, may chew on the insulation covering your wires. This can weaken your wire system and result in exposed wires.
Short Circuits
Bugs, like ants and cockroaches, can also crawl into your electrical system, interrupting the electrical current. When this happens, a short circuit can occur.
Corrosion
The debris buildup caused by ants and other bugs can corrode your electrical wires over time. Ants, especially, release formic acid when they die, which can corrode your wiring.
Fires
Although fires are rare, repeated short circuits can cause one, especially if ants are infested.
Blockages
Dead bugs in your electrical outlets can block the flow of electricity, causing problems with that particular outlet.
How to Bug Proof Electrical Outlets
If bugs have damaged your electrical outlets, contact the electricians at Mister Sparky. We can either repair or replace them as needed. We can also provide preventive tips on how to bug-proof your electrical outlets. Here are some of the ways we recommend.
Seal Gaps
Seal gaps or cracks around your outlets with foam sealant or caulk, paying special attention to where the outlet meets the wall.
Use Outlet Covers
Purchase child-proof plastic outlet covers. These covers will prevent insects from entering your electrical outlet. Take the cover off and plug it into your device when using your outlet. When you’re finished, unplug the device and replace the cover.
Keep the Area Clean and Dry
Keep the area dry and clean to prevent moisture from accumulating. This can ward off moisture-loving bugs, such as silverfish.
Practice Pest Control
Be consistent about pest control. In problem areas, you can apply a light dusting of boric acid (Borax Powder).
Contact Experts to Add Insulating Foam
If bugs have taken over the inside of your walls, hire experts to apply spray foam insulation behind the outlets.
Mister Sparky
Having bugs invade your electrical outlets isn’t fun, but there is a way to get them out and prevent them from nesting there in the future. When you call our electricians at Mister Sparky, we’ll ensure that our repairs enhance the safety of your home. We can repair or replace single outlets or multiple ones.
Need to make an appointment? Contact Melbourne’s on-time electricians. We pride ourselves on punctuality.