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How to Keep Roaches Out of a Thermostat

Roaches are among the most common insects to infest homes. These pests like to spend daylight hours hiding in secluded areas, and then come out in search of food and water at night. Roaches can spread disease and bacteria throughout your home and cause allergies in sensitive members of the household. They can build nests anywhere, including inside your thermostat. If you discover roaches in your home, act immediately before the infestation worsens.

Things You'll Need

Boric acid
Caulk

Instructions

- 1
  Kill roaches with boric acid. Sprinkle some on your thermostat, behind appliances or anywhere you think they are nesting in your home. When roaches ingest boric acid, they die.
- 2
  Apply a light application of boric acid around the perimeter of your home to keep roaches away. While it has low toxicity to humans and pets, it is deadly to roaches.
- 3
  Keep your home clean and sanitary, and eliminate any food sources for the pests. Do not allow dirty dishes to remain overnight. Store food in tightly sealed containers or in the refrigerator.
- 4
  Seal cracks and crevices in your home's foundation with caulk to prevent roaches from entering. Use weather stripping to seal entry points under doors and windows.
- 5
  Inspect your home weekly for roaches. Reapply boric acid as needed. It remains potent as long as it does not get wet.

Insects & Science