Unfortunately, rodents are a common household pest that can create several problems. Not only can they carry diseases, but they can damage furniture while leaving unwanted droppings behind.
Rodents especially love to chew on electrical wires. Since they have sharp and continuously growing teeth, they can quickly bite through the cables and cause electrical issues for your home.
The exterminators at Ortex Termite & Pest Control know how frustrating dealing with a rodent infestation can be. Our team is passionate about helping homeowners protect their
homes and get rid of unwanted pests quickly and effectively.
Why Do Rodents Gnaw At Wires?
Mice and rats constantly look for something to chew because their teeth continuously grow. Unlike our teeth, rodent teeth lack roots, which means their teeth don’t stop growing. Chewing helps them prevent overgrowth and keep their teeth in a functional shape.
Mice and rats chew wires because they are often in popular rodent hiding spots, such as between walls and tucked away behind furniture. Their teeth are sharp enough to cut through the wires and cause various electrical problems and damage.
Signs That Rodents Are Chewing Your Wires
If you notice any of the following signs, you may have a rodent problem:
- Your appliances are constantly failing
- Frequent circuit trips
- You notice rat’s nests or droppings
- The lights are flickering
- You can hear scratching or scurrying noises in the wall
- There are bite marks on some cables and wires
- Your home has strange odors
- You see a mouse or rat that is not a pet
Electrical Problems
If you suspect that you have a rodent problem, it is vital to call an exterminator as soon as possible. When rodents chew through your wires, they can cause various issues in your home.
When mice chew through wires, they can cause your home’s electrical system to malfunction or fail altogether. In more severe cases, damaged electrical wires can lead to fires.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, the second biggest cause of U.S. house fires between 2012 and 2016 was electrical malfunctions. Unfortunately, rodents can be responsible for serious electrical problems like house fires.
How to Keep Mice From Chewing Your Electrical Wires
Keeping rats and mice out is often easier than getting rid of them. Below are some practical ways to keep your home rodent-free and protect your electrical system.
Seal Holes And Cracks Around the House
Rodents can fit into holes that are less than half an inch wide. This makes it easier for them to sneak in and harder for you to find their entry points. Common areas for rats to sneak in include:
- Doors
- Closets
- Under sinks and around pipes
- Attics
- Basements
- Crawl spaces
- Around windows
If you notice small holes or cracks around your house, use a quality sealant to keep mice and rats out.
Store Your Food Properly
Rodents are not only always on the lookout for something to chew but something to eat. Leaving your food out or improperly storing it can attract mice and put your home at risk.
Keeping your counters clean, storing food in tight lid containers, and covering trash can help reduce the risk of attracting rats. If you have a garden, it is essential to harvest your produce as soon as it’s ripe since it gives rats easy access to food.
Protect The Outside Of Your Home
Protecting your home’s exterior can help prevent rodents from entering. For example, moving woodpiles away from your house and trimming tree branches can help eliminate popular rodent pathways.
Additionally, keep an eye on any old vehicles you have near your house. Unused or aged cars and trucks make excellent rodent homes.
Call The Pros
One of the most effective ways to prevent a rodent infestation is to schedule an inspection with professional exterminators. Ortex Termite & Pest Control will perform a comprehensive inspection of your home to locate the infestation and help you with the extermination process.
If you have significant wiring damage, you may need to call an electrician as well. Although you want to get rid of the rodents as soon as possible, it is vital to fix any electrical problems as quickly as possible.
Fix Your Rodent Problem Today
Whether you have flickering lights or see a mouse scurry across your living room, calling an exterminator as soon as possible is critical for the safety of your home. Call Ortex Termite & Pest Control (931) 347-1929 to schedule an inspection and keep your home rodent-free.
