Heat Treatment
Heat Treatment Preparation Checklist for Toronto Properties
Heat treatment equipment raises the temperature throughout a room, so a few preparation steps make a real difference. Use this checklist ahead of your appointment so our technicians can work through your property as thoroughly as possible.
Before Your Appointment
Why Heat Treatment Preparation Matters
Heat treatment works by raising the temperature throughout the room to a level bed bugs cannot survive. Our own thermal imaging equipment has recorded readings roughly in the 140 to 159 degree Fahrenheit range during past treatments. Because the whole room heats up, items that are sensitive to high temperatures need to be removed or protected, and clearing floor space helps hot air circulate evenly.
Step 1
Remove Heat Sensitive Items
Because equipment raises the room temperature significantly, the following items should be removed from the treatment area before your appointment.
- Candles, wax items and anything with a low melting point
- Aerosol cans, pressurized containers and lighters
- Televisions, computers, gaming consoles and other electronics
- Medications, eyeglasses and other heat sensitive personal items
- Pets, including fish tanks and cages
- Live plants
Step 2
Launder and Bag Linens and Clothing
Washing and bagging fabric items helps address bed bugs that may be hiding in linens or clothing.
- Wash and dry bedding, clothing and curtains on the highest heat setting the fabric allows
- Seal cleaned items in plastic bags to keep them bed bug free until treatment is complete
- Keep bagged items sealed until your technician confirms treatment is finished
Step 3
Clear Floor Space and Furniture Surfaces
Hot air needs to circulate freely through the room, so clearing space helps heat reach every area.
- Move furniture away from walls where possible so air can circulate around it
- Clear items off floors, beds and furniture surfaces
- Open closet doors, dresser drawers and cabinet doors so heat can reach fabric and hidden areas
- Remove items stored under beds
Step 4
Access and Scheduling
A few general considerations help the day of treatment go smoothly.
- Confirm arrival time and the expected length of treatment with our team
- Arrange for access if you will not be home during the appointment
- Make arrangements for pets and family members who may need to be away from the property
Real Job Photos
Thermal Readings From Our Equipment
These thermal imaging photos are from actual heat treatments carried out on Toronto properties.
Common Questions
Heat Treatment Preparation FAQs
Do I need to remove electronics before heat treatment?
Sensitive electronics such as televisions, computers and gaming consoles are generally recommended to be removed from the treatment area, since equipment raises the room temperature significantly. Your technician can confirm what should be moved out ahead of your appointment.
What should I do with pets, plants and candles?
Pets, live plants, candles and aerosol cans should be removed from the treatment area before heat treatment begins. These items are sensitive to high temperatures and are easier to protect by relocating them for the duration of the visit.
Can I stay in my home during heat treatment?
This depends on the specifics of your property and treatment plan. Our team will confirm what to expect for your appointment once your treatment is scheduled.
Do closets, drawers and cabinets need to be open?
Yes, opening closet doors, dresser drawers and cabinets helps hot air circulate into fabric and hidden areas where bed bugs may be hiding. Closed containers can block heat from reaching these spaces effectively.
How long does heat treatment preparation take?
This varies depending on the size of the property and the amount of clutter to clear. Most households can complete the checklist in a few hours, though larger or more cluttered properties may need more time.
What happens if my property is not fully prepared?
Our technicians will do their best to work with the property as they find it, but incomplete preparation can limit how thoroughly heat reaches every area. Following the checklist ahead of time helps the visit go as smoothly as possible.
Get Started
Book Your Heat Treatment Appointment
Have questions about preparing for heat treatment? Reach out and our team will walk you through what to expect for your property.