Electronic pest control is the elimination of unwanted rodents, insects, and other pests through the use of an electrically-powered device. The most common type of device, an electronic pest repeller, emits a sound or vibration that drives pests away. Most solutions on the market range from $10 to $100.

An electronic pest repellent generates a signal that is irritating to pests, but harmless to humans. Devices fall into two main categories: ultrasonic and electromagnetic.

Ultrasonic pest repellents generate a sound wave that is too high in pitch for human ears, but drives pests out of your home to find a quieter place to live. Ultrasonic devices do not work through walls or around corners, so take this into consideration when situating the device.

Electromagnetic pest control repellents use the wiring of your home as a type of antenna. The electrical current is subtly manipulated to generate a magnetic field that is uncomfortable for pests. This method is great for dealing with pests living near wires in your walls, which can be popular nesting spots. The downside is that it will not work in areas without wiring, like attics and basements.

Most consumers choose electronic pest control for a combination of the following reasons:

1. Non-toxic: No poisons or toxic chemicals are required.
2. Humane: Pest are repelled, not killed.
3. Clean: No pest carcasses to dispose of.
4. Convenient: No need to re-apply chemicals, change traps, freshen bait, etc.

A good place to shop for electronic pest control is your local hardware store or garden center. Most national chains also have websites where you can shop online, for example:

http://www.homedepot.com
http://www.lowes.com
http://www.acehardware.com
http://www.amazon.com

There are also online retailers who specialize in electronic pest control:
http://www.victorpest.com/store/rodent-control/ultrasonic-rodent-control
http://www.bugrepeller.com/
http://www.pestproducts.com/electronicpestcontrol.htm
http://www.bird-x.com/products-animal-pest-repellers-c-5_9.html

Unlike pesticides and toxic chemicals, electronic pest control is not well-regulated. In the United States for example, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) does not require manufacturers to prove their claims. The consumer must take care to purchase a device that will be effective for the specific application.

A good place to start your research is by reading consumer reviews at shopping websites such as amazon.com. Following are some links to further reviews:

http://www.stretcher.com/stories/980306a.cfm
http://www.essortment.com/home/electronicpest_tsja.htm
http://www.zimbio.com/Gardening+in+Palo+Alto,+CA/articles/98/Importance+Reading+Electronic+Pest+Control
http://ths.gardenweb.com/forums/load/disaster/msg11183934580.html

Most devices on the market today are safe for humans and pets such as cats and dogs. Electronic pest control is not typically recommended in homes with pet mice, gerbils, hamsters, and other rodents.

One concern is that pests will eventually grow accustomed to the repeller and return to the infested area. For this reason, many consumers find that electronic pest control is most effective when used alongside traditional methods.

A final consideration is the size and layout of your home. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations, otherwise you risk simply driving the pests from one part of the house to another. You may need more than one device to provide coverage of all areas of the home, including your attic, basement, and crawl spaces.

In conclusion, electronic pest control is an intriguing new option, either as a stand-alone solution or in conjunction with other methods. Following are some sources for further reading:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electronic_pest_control
http://www.global-instruments.com/questions.htm