BBCTV #30 – Using Solar Heat to Kill Bed Bugs

In this episode, Jeff will explain how some people have tried to use the suns energy to heat treat items by placing them in the hot sun in the yard or car and his position on this technique. Although, if done properly, this technique can be effective, Bed Bug Central does not recommend this technique since the chance for it to fail and possibly infest your car exists. The temperatures in a car or in the direct sunlight during the summer months can be in excess of 160 degrees which is well over the lethal temperature to kill bed bugs and their eggs. The issue with this technique is that there are sometimes ways for the bugs to escape the bags they are contained in and then your car can become infested. Also, if you place items in the yard in the direct sunlight, where the bags of items touch the ground can be a cold spot and provide an area for bed bugs to avoid the lethal temperatures. In conclusion, although this technique can work it is not recommended by Bed Bug Central due to the concerns with failure and possibly infesting your automobiles.