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October 31st-Ultrasonic pest control equipment has been widely promoted in the market as a solution to get rid of various pests from fleas to rats. They can be easily bought online or in hardware stores and some supermarkets. The convincing explanation for the propaganda of these devices is that they use ultrasonic waves that humans cannot hear to repel pests.

Before falling into the advertising trap, the Penang Consumer Association would like to remind everyone that they often do not operate as expected.

In 2001, the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) wrote to more than 60 manufacturers and retailers of such devices, stating that claims about the efficacy of these products should be supported by scientific evidence.

There are many such devices on the market, claiming that they can kill rodents, repel insects and fleas from pets.

According to the FTC, the rodent’s response to ultrasound is “temporary at best,” because rodents may become accustomed to ultrasound and return to their nesting or foraging areas.

A study by the University of Arizona showed that "measurable results are often lacking to support these claims." Research has also shown that such devices may also affect non-target animals, such as dogs that can hear ultrasound.

Extensive research has shown that the device has a selective effect in repelling certain types of insects (crickets), but has little effect on other insects (such as cockroaches). There are other problems, such as weakening the clarity of phone conversations and interfering with anti-theft alarm systems.

We urge consumers to proceed with caution and avoid falling into the trap of advertising that promises to eliminate all kinds of pests in their homes. At the same time, the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs (KPDNHEP), SIRIM and the Malaysian Energy Commission should also investigate this matter, because such devices have been on the market for decades, and there are a large number of reports and studies showing the effectiveness of these devices as a driving force. The insecticide device is unfounded.

Penang Consumers Association (CAP)

* This is the personal opinion of the author or publication, and does not necessarily represent the opinion of Malay Mail.

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