Complete guide
What is thermal bed bug extermination and how does it work?
Thermal bed bug extermination is now recognised as the most effective, fast and safe method for eliminating infestations of Cimex lectularius (the bed bug). Unlike traditional chemical treatments — which often require multiple applications, periods of vacating the space and pose risks to human and animal health — heat treatment eliminates all parasites in a single session of 6 to 8 hours, leaving no toxic residues.
How heat eliminates bed bugs
BestControl heaters progressively raise the temperature of the space until it reaches between 55°C and 65°C. Above 50°C, eggs, nymphs and adult bed bugs lose their ability to survive. Prolonged exposure to these temperatures — maintained for several hours using high-temperature fans for even heat distribution — ensures that no area remains outside the lethal zone. Furniture, skirting boards, mattresses, electrical sockets and hard-to-reach corners are all treated simultaneously, with no need to dismantle the space.
BestControl Heater 220V — for domestic and short-term rental use
The BestControl Heater 220V was designed for short-term rental owners, landlords, small boutique hotels and private homes. It runs on a standard domestic socket (16 amps), reaches up to 55°C and is suitable for spaces up to 60 m². The unit includes a multilingual instruction manual (Portuguese, English, Spanish, French and German), a control thermometer and technical support. Ideal for those who want to own the equipment and carry out treatments independently, without relying on external companies.
⚠️ Technical note: 13A vs. 16A version
The BestControl Heater 220V is available in two amperage versions — 13A and 16A. The 16A version delivers faster treatments, but requires a dedicated electrical circuit and a breaker rated at 16A or higher, able to sustain that load continuously for 6 to 8 hours. In older installations, circuits shared with other appliances, or breakers rated at 10A/13A, plugging in the 16A version can trip the circuit breaker in the electrical panel, interrupting the treatment partway through. We recommend checking the breaker rating of the circuit before the session, and if in doubt — especially in older buildings or short-term rentals with unknown wiring — choosing the 13A version, which is compatible with most domestic installations. This is also the correct version for customers in the United Kingdom, where standard domestic sockets (BS 1363) use a 13A fuse. If in doubt, consult a certified electrician.
BestControl Pro 380V — the European professional standard
For pest control companies, large hotels, student residences and cruise ships, the BestControl Pro 380V is the professional choice. With three-phase power and up to 18 kW output, this industrial unit reaches 65°C and treats spaces up to 120 m² quickly and effectively. It is the reference unit used by hundreds of pest control professionals across Europe, from Portugal to Germany, including Spain, France, Italy, the Netherlands and Austria.
Advantages of heat treatment over chemical methods
Heat treatment offers clear advantages over pesticides and other conventional methods:
- Eliminates all life-cycle stages — including eggs resistant to chemicals.
- A single session — no need to repeat treatment weeks later.
- No toxic residues — the space is available immediately after cooling.
- No resistance — bed bugs cannot develop immunity to heat, unlike many insecticides.
- Safe for humans and animals — ideal for children's rooms, care homes and pet-friendly spaces.
- Fast ROI — eliminating reliance on external pest control companies pays for the unit in just a few treatments.
Shipping across Europe
BestControl Heaters, based in Lisbon, Portugal, exports its heaters to more than 12 European countries. Units are shipped properly packaged and accompanied by complete technical documentation. Delivery times vary between 3 and 7 business days depending on the destination country. For personalised quotes or shipments to unlisted countries, contact us directly at bestcontrolheaters@gmail.com or by phone at +351 917 599 680.
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