Beatrice Lang
When a home is infested with termites, it is common to use fumigation to get rid of them. This involves filling the house with gas, which can be harmful to humans, pets, and plants. As a result, the occupants must leave the house during the fumigation process, which can take up to three days. To prepare for fumigation, it is recommended to unplug all electrical appliances and remove perishables, clothing, and other items. While the gas is typically turned off during this process, the electricity usually remains on. However, in some cases, electrical connections may need to be capped, particularly if there are multiple buildings on the property.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Is electricity turned off during termite fumigation? | No, electricity is not turned off during termite fumigation. However, electrical appliances should be unplugged and all perishables removed. |
| How long does the fumigation process take? | The fumigation process takes three days, regulated by the California Aeration Plan (CAP). |
| What products are used? | Vikane by Dow AgroSciences is used for fumigation. |
| How is the area checked for safety after fumigation? | A "Fumiscope" is used to monitor the air for any trace of fumigants. |
| What should be removed before fumigation? | Animals, perishables, clothing, electrical appliances, and plants should be removed. |
| What preparations should be made before fumigation? | The fumigation company will provide preparation materials and answer questions. Occupants should make accommodation plans and prepare their homes by uncovering furniture and upholstery, opening doors and windows, and removing vegetation and debris. |
| What happens during fumigation? | The fumigation team puts up warning signs and circulates gas through the property. |
| What happens after fumigation? | The fumigation team uses fans to vent out the gas, and the property is certified for re-entry when the concentration of gas is safe. Utilities are turned back on, and a safety inspection is performed. |
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What You'll Learn
Gas is turned off, electricity is left on
When it comes to termite fumigation, the gas is turned off, but the electricity is left on. This is a safety precaution to prevent a gas leak from creating a dangerous situation. While the gas is turned off by the gas company, the electricity is left on to power devices such as fans, which are used to ventilate the fumigation gas from the property after the process is complete.
Before fumigation, it is important to prepare your home. This includes removing perishables, clothing, electrical appliances, animals, and plants. It is also necessary to open all doors, closets, drawers, and cabinets to ensure the fumigant reaches all areas. Additionally, warning signs must be posted, and gates must be unlocked and accessible.
During the fumigation process, the extermination team will pump gas fumigant into your home, which will spread through cracks and crevices, killing the termites. This process typically takes one day, but the team will then use fans to ventilate the gas from the property, which can take an additional day or more.
After the fumigation is complete, the property must be tested to ensure the fumigant concentration is safe for re-entry. This is often done using special equipment to test the air quality. Once the property is certified as safe, you can return to your home and unpack your belongings.
It is important to note that the gas shut-off service must be scheduled in advance with the gas company. They will also conduct a leak test and inspect and adjust your gas appliances for safety and efficiency.
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Gas shut-off must be scheduled in advance
During termite fumigation, only the gas needs to be turned off, and the electricity can remain on. This is a safety measure to prevent any potential sparks that could ignite the fumigation gas and turn your property into a ticking bomb.
Scheduling a Gas Shut-Off
To schedule a gas shut-off, you or your fumigation contractor must contact your gas utility provider at least two business days before the requested start date. In California, only SoCalGas or its certified contractors are authorized to operate the natural gas service shut-off valve.
Preparing for the Gas Shut-Off
Before the gas shut-off, you must ensure safe access to the natural gas meter. Clear any debris or obstacles that may prevent access, such as unlocking and opening gates and trimming or removing trees or shrubs.
Restoring Gas Service
After fumigation, you must schedule a time to restart your gas service. Make sure that the building is safe to enter and post a ""Notice of Re-entry"" or "Certification for Re-entry" from your fumigation contractor. Provide access to the location and its gas appliances, and report the type of fumigant used.
Scheduling Tips
It is recommended to schedule the gas shut-off and restoration for the same day to avoid service disruptions. You can usually arrange for service up to 60 days in advance, and some providers may accommodate four-hour appointment timeframes if resources are available.
Safety Considerations
Before restoring gas service, a leak check is required to ensure safety. Additionally, during the restoration service, technicians can inspect and adjust your gas appliances for safety and efficiency.
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Gas leaks must be avoided
To prevent gas leaks, fumigation contractors must ensure safe access to the gas meter and front door of the structure. This includes unlocking gates and removing debris or items that may obstruct access. Trees and shrubs may also need to be trimmed or removed if they prevent access to the gas meter. Additionally, the gas utility must inspect the meter and service riser to deem them safe before fumigation begins. Warning notices should also be posted at the meter and front door by the gas utility.
In some cases, the gas meter may be covered by the tent used for fumigation. However, this is rare and only occurs when the structure or meter location makes it impossible to exclude the meter from the tent. It is crucial to schedule a gas shut-off service at least two business days before the fumigation to ensure the gas connection is turned off during the process. This step is essential for safety, as a small leak combined with electricity could create a dangerous situation.
After fumigation, it is standard to perform a leak check, as gas service interruption can increase the risk of leaks. Technicians will also inspect gas facilities to ensure tent fumigations can be performed safely. They will delay the process if any issues are identified with the meter or associated components. Only qualified personnel are permitted to operate service valves, as per the Code of Federal Regulations. These measures are in place to protect homeowners and workers and ensure a safe fumigation process.
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Electric appliances should be unplugged
When preparing for termite fumigation, it is important to unplug all electrical appliances and devices. This includes ovens, washing machines, televisions, refrigerators, heaters, and other electrical items. By turning off and unplugging these appliances, you reduce the risk of any electrical issues or accidents during the fumigation process.
Fumigation involves pumping gas fumigants into the infested areas to eradicate termites. As gas can be highly flammable and pose a health risk, it is crucial to minimise potential ignition sources by unplugging electrical appliances. This step ensures that your home or property remains safe during the fumigation process.
Additionally, some gas companies may require you to schedule a gas shut-off service before fumigation. This means that the gas supply to your property will be temporarily interrupted to prevent any potential leaks or accidents. It is important to contact your gas company in advance to make the necessary arrangements and ensure a safe fumigation process.
While electricity is typically left on during termite fumigation, unplugging electrical appliances is a necessary safety precaution. This helps to prevent any potential issues with appliances that may be sensitive to gas exposure or fluctuations in gas or electrical supply.
It is also worth noting that, during the fumigation process, it is standard practice to open all doors and windows to allow the gas to dissipate effectively. This further emphasises the importance of unplugging electrical appliances to reduce potential safety hazards.
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The property must be vacated during fumigation
Termite fumigation is a common procedure for homes and structures in southern California. The process involves filling the property with fumigant gas, which raises safety concerns for occupants. As such, it is mandatory for the property to be vacated during fumigation.
The property owner or landlord is responsible for notifying occupants ahead of fumigation. While the required notice period is not specified, sources indicate that landlords typically provide at least one week's notice. This allows tenants to make alternative living arrangements, such as staying in a hotel or with friends or family. Landlords may offer to cover these costs, but it is not mandatory.
During the fumigation process, the gas supply to the property must be shut off by the gas utility provider. This is a safety precaution to prevent any potential hazards. However, the electricity supply is typically left on to avoid issues with a total power outage.
Before vacating the property, tenants are advised to take necessary precautions. This includes removing all food, bagging clothes and dishes, and ensuring proper ventilation of bags and boxes. Any valuables should be taken along, as the property will be unoccupied and unsecured for most of the time.
The fumigation process can take up to three days, and sometimes longer depending on the schedule. After the process is completed, a fumigation contractor will check the property with a Fumiscope to ensure it is safe for re-entry. Only when the property is certified as safe can occupants return and the gas connection be restored.
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Frequently asked questions
No, electricity is not turned off during termite fumigation. However, it is recommended that you unplug all electrical appliances and turn them off.
Yes, the gas is turned off during termite fumigation. You will need to schedule a gas shut-off service with your utility company at least two business days in advance.
You will need to remove all people, animals, perishables, clothing, electrical appliances, and indoor plants from your home. You should also open all doors and windows to allow the fumigant to spread throughout the house.
