Many homeowners have to deal with pests like termites, bed bugs, cockroaches, and other insects that can infest their homes. Fumigation is a common treatment used by pest control companies to get rid of these pests and thoroughly treat an entire home. However, fumigation requires the home to be completely sealed off and evacuated during the process. This leads many homeowners to ask – can I leave my refrigerator on during fumigation?
What is Fumigation?
Fumigation involves sealing the home being treated and releasing a lethal gas to kill off pests that may be hiding inside walls, floors, furniture and belongings. The most common fumigant used is Vikane gas (sulfuryl fluoride). Vikane spreads through the entire structure killing eggs, larvae, adults, and hidden pests on contact.
Other fumigants like methyl bromide can also be used depending on the type of pest infestation. Fumigation is highly effective when done properly and can eliminate infestations in one treatment. Preparation is key and all occupants, plants, food, and pets must be removed before fumigation begins.
How Long Does Fumigation Take?
The fumigation process takes 1-3 days depending on the size of the structure being treated. After sealing off the building, fumigant is released and allowed to disperse for 8-24 hours. During this time, no one can enter as the gas is toxic to humans and pets.
After fumigant exposure time, aeration begins by opening up the building and using fans to ventilate. This clears out any lingering gas and takes 8-12 hours minimum. Once cleared by the applicator, residents can return but may notice a slight gas odor for a few days. The entire process takes 24-72 hours to complete.
Should You Leave the Refrigerator On?
When it comes to appliances, the refrigerator presents a dilemma during fumigation. Here are some points to consider:
Safety Concerns
The fumigant disperses through the entire sealed home, including fridge interiors. Vikane and methyl bromide are toxic if inhaled or ingested. Turning off the refrigerator ensures no gas is trapped inside and inadvertently exposes food.
Running refrigerators also produce heat during operation. Too much heat generation inside can interfere with the fumigant dispersal. Turning it off eliminates this issue.
Food Spoilage
Keeping the fridge on means food remains cold during treatment. However, any food or drinks exposed to fumigant must be thrown out after. It is impossible to fully seal off refrigerators.
If left on, condensation and gases can enter and contaminate edibles inside. Turning refrigerators off minimizes what must be discarded.
Electrical Damage
The aeration process involves extensive ventilation once fumigation ends. This rapid influx of fresh air causes high humidity inside the home.
Condensation can build up on surfaces, which poses a risk to appliances. The electrical components of refrigerators can short or fail if exposed to moisture during aeration. Turning the unit off reduces damage risks.
Manufacturer Instructions
Most refrigerator manufacturers instruct owners to shut off appliances before fumigation. Their manuals contain guidance to prevent harm during the process. Always follow specific directions for your brand and model when fumigating.
How to Prepare Your Refrigerator for Fumigation
To keep food safe and your refrigerator protected, follow these key steps:
Remove All Food Items
Take everything consumable out of the refrigerator and freezer compartments. This includes:
- Fresh produce like fruits, vegetables and leafy greens
- Meats, eggs, dairy products
- Leftover dishes, hummus, sauces, etc.
- Beverages like milk, juice, wine, etc.
- Condiments like ketchup, dressings, jams
Pack perishables in a cooler with ice to keep refrigerated during the fumigation. Afterwards, throw away any opened items and inspect sealed products before consuming.
Turn Off Power and Water Supply
Shut off electricity to the refrigerator to prevent any electrical risks. Also shut off water valves supplying ice makers or water dispensers.
Keep Doors Open
Leave all refrigerator and freezer doors completely open after emptying. This allows fumigant to easily disperse through the compartments. It also prevents humidity buildup inside during aeration.
Cover Shelving
Use plastic sheets or bags to cover any shelving inside refrigerators. This protects surfaces from chemical contact and condensation.
Tape Door Seals
Use painter’s tape to tape down rubber door seals. Fumigant exposure can degrade the rubber. Taping it down prevents seal damage.
Clean Surfaces
Give the interior a thorough wipe down and cleaning before fumigation. This removes grime so any chemical residues can be easily wiped away afterward.
Run Briefly After Aeration
Once cleared, run the emptied refrigerator for a few minutes before returning any food. This helps remove any lingering fumigant odors or moisture inside.
Storing Food During and After Fumigation
Proper food storage is vital to keep it protected before, during and after fumigation:
Before
Remove all opened food from the refrigerator and discard if you cannot verify it was unexposed. Pack unopened, sealed items in a cooler with ice. Keep the cooler someplace distant from the fumigated structure.
Discard any perishables left at room temperature for over 2 hours. Bacteria multiply quickly rendering food unsafe.
During
Do NOT open the cooler and transfer foods to a refrigerator elsewhere! Doing so risks contaminating that unit with residues. All food must remain packed in the cooler until yours can safely operate again.
Keep the cooler drained, repacked with fresh ice at least once daily. Monitor perishable temperatures with a food thermometer.
After
Once cleared for re-entry, inspect all food packaging for signs of tampering or damage. Discard anything that appears compromised.
Wipe down the exterior of unopened bottles, cans, and packaging before placing them back into the fridge. Run the empty fridge briefly before restocking.
Always throw out the following after fumigation:
- Produce like fruits, veggies and leafy greens
- Opened dairy products and eggs
- Thawed frozen foods or ice cream
- Opened jars, bottles, and containers
- Meat, poultry, fish, and seafood
- Leftovers, salad dressings, and condiments
- Soft or porous foods
Harder items like unopened jars, canned goods, soda, and beer are likely safe if thoroughly wiped down. But when in doubt, throw it out!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t I leave my refrigerator plugged in and running?
Fumigant gases can still enter and contaminate any exposed food inside a running refrigerator. Appliances also pose an electrical hazard if condensation builds up during aeration. It is safest to turn off the refrigerator.
Should I empty my refrigerator and freezer before fumigation?
Yes, both compartments must be completely emptied of food beforehand. No consumables should remain inside. Remove and pack everything in a cooler with ice.
Do I need to unplug other appliances too?
Follow directions from your pest control company. Typically all utilities like electricity, natural gas, and water are shut off during fumigation for safety. Only leave on essentials they instruct you to.
Can I put my food outside in coolers during fumigation?
No, placing perishables outside risks contamination. The cooler ice chest must be stored indoors away from the structure being fumigated. Monitor the temperature and re-ice the contents at least once a day.
How long until my refrigerator is safe to use again?
Most professionals recommend waiting 24 hours after cleared for re-entry before turning refrigerators back on. This allows for full aeration and dissipation of any residual fumigant.
The Bottom Line
Preparing your refrigerator properly is an important part of evacuation for fumigation. All food must be removed and appliances powered off in advance. With some simple precautions, your refrigerator can survive the process unharmed and your food protected.
Follow all directions from your fumigation company. Their experts can guide you through every preparation and recovery step. With a few days of inconvenient food storage, you can eliminate pests from your home and keep your refrigerator contents safe.