Preparing your home for tent fumigation due to termite infestation requires careful planning, especially when solar panels are installed on your roof. The presence of solar panels introduces unique considerations to ensure both the effectiveness of the fumigation process and the protection of your solar energy system.
Understanding the Fumigation Process
Tent fumigation involves enveloping your entire home with a sealed tent and introducing a gas, such as Vikane, to eradicate termites and other pests. This method is highly effective for severe infestations, as the gas penetrates all areas of the structure, eliminating pests that are hidden from view. However, the process necessitates access to the entire exterior of the home, including the roof, which can pose challenges when solar panels are present.
Challenges with Solar Panels During Fumigation
Solar panels are typically mounted on rooftops, the same area that exterminators need to cover with the fumigation tent. The primary challenges include:
Tent Placement: The tent must cover the entire structure, and solar panels can obstruct the proper draping of the tent over the roof.
Panel Fragility: Solar panels consist of delicate components that can be damaged by heavy objects or excessive weight.
Safety Concerns: Walking on solar panels is hazardous due to their slippery surfaces, increasing the risk of falls and injuries.
Best Practices for Fumigating Homes with Solar Panels
To address these challenges, consider the following best practices:
Notify the Fumigation Company: Inform your chosen pest control service about your solar panels well in advance. This allows them to plan appropriately and take necessary precautions.
Avoid Panel Removal: In most cases, removing solar panels is unnecessary. Instead, exterminators can carefully drape the tent over the panels, ensuring complete coverage without direct contact. For instance, some companies have experience tenting homes with solar panels without issues, as they spread the tarp over the panels carefully.
Use Appropriate Tent Deployment Methods: Exterminators should avoid using heavy weights or tools that could damage the panels. Instead, they can employ methods that do not involve tossing objects over the roof.
Prohibit Walking on Panels: Technicians must refrain from stepping on the panels to prevent damage and ensure personal safety.
Seal All Entry Points: Ensure that all windows, doors, and vents are properly sealed to prevent gas from escaping and to protect the integrity of the fumigation process.
Turn Off Solar Panels: Prior to fumigation, it’s advisable to deactivate your solar energy system. This can typically be done by turning off the inverters. If you’re unsure how to do this, consult your solar provider or refer to your system’s manual.
Additional Preparation Steps
Beyond considerations specific to solar panels, general preparation for tent fumigation includes:
Removing Consumables: Take out all food, medications, and pet supplies from the home, as they can absorb fumigation chemicals.
Vacating the Premises: Ensure all residents, including pets and plants, leave the property for the duration of the fumigation and aeration process.
Securing the Property: Lock all external doors and windows, and consider removing valuable items to ensure their safety.
Selecting a Solar-Friendly Fumigation Company
Choosing a pest control company experienced in handling homes with solar panels is crucial. Here are five local termite exterminators in the West Palm Beach area known for their expertise and consideration of solar installations:
Evergreen Environmental Services
9201 Patina Dr
Boynton Beach, FL 33472
www.goevergreenfl.com
(561)-312-4665
Florida Environmental Pest Management
990 W 15th St, Riviera Beach, FL 33404
561-220-4277
www.florida-environmental.com
Native Pest Management
2731 Vista Pkwy
Unit D5
West Palm Beach, FL 33411
www.nativepestmanagement.com/
Conclusion
Fumigating a home with solar panels requires meticulous planning and collaboration with a knowledgeable pest control company. By taking the necessary precautions and selecting a service experienced in handling solar-equipped homes, you can effectively eliminate termite infestations while safeguarding your solar energy investment.
