An ant infestation in your home is one of the last things you’d expect in the middle of winter. But spotting ants in the house during the colder months isn’t as uncommon as you’d think. Here’s why you’re struggling with an ant problem and what you can do to solve it.
Your Go-To Guide for a Winter Ant Infestation
To keep ants out of your home this winter, it’s helpful to learn more about their behavior. Let’s dive in.
What Do Ants Do in the Winter?
In their natural habitat, ants are cold-blooded creatures that typically slow down in winter. As temperatures drop, most ants enter a state of dormancy, retreating to their nests underground or in protected places to conserve energy. However, when ants find warm, cozy spaces—like your home—they can remain active year-round.
Why are there Ants in My House During Winter?
Your home provides a perfect haven for ants to survive the winter. Heating systems, access to food, and damp areas can encourage ant activity.
- Warmth and Shelter. Ants might enter your home in search of warmth. Cracks in walls, doors, and windows provide easy entry points.
- Access to Food. Ants are opportunistic eaters. If there’s a food source in your kitchen or pantry, they’ll exploit it.
- Moisture Issues. High-moisture areas like bathrooms and basements attract ants, especially carpenter ants, which thrive in damp conditions. If you notice ants in your bathroom or basement, check for leaks or excess humidity.
Tips to Prevent Winter Ant Infestations
Prevention is always better than cure. Here’s how to keep ants at bay:
- Regular Maintenance: Repair cracks and gaps around windows, doors, and foundations.
- Maintain Dry Conditions: Fix plumbing leaks and use a dehumidifier in damp areas.
- Reduce Outdoor Attractions: Keep woodpiles, mulch, and compost bins away from your home.
- Store Food Properly: Keep food in sealed containers and avoid leaving pet food out.
How to Get Rid of Ants in the Winter
If you’re already dealing with ants, here are some effective ways to tackle the problem:
1. Clean Thoroughly
Ants are drawn to food scraps and sugary spills. Regularly clean floors, countertops, and pantry shelves to eliminate crumbs and spills.
2. Seal Entry Points
Inspect your home for cracks or gaps where ants might be sneaking in. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal these areas.
3. Set Up Ant Bait
Ant bait is one of the most effective ways to kill ants. Baits lure ants in with food, then spread the poison back to the colony.
4. Fix Moisture Problems
Address leaks, install a dehumidifier, and ventilate damp areas to make your home less attractive to ants.
Bring in the Experts: How Plunkett’s Can Help
If you’ve tried everything and still can’t figure out how to get rid of ants in your house, it’s time to call in the professionals. At Plunkett’s Pest Control, we specialize in identifying and eliminating even the toughest ant infestations.
Our expert technicians will:
- Inspect your home to locate ant colonies and entry points.
- Develop a customized treatment plan to effectively kill ants and prevent future infestations.
- Provide guidance on maintaining a pest-free home.
Get in Touch with Plunkett’s Pest Control!
Don’t let ants take over your winter sanctuary. Whether you’re dealing with a few ants in your bathroom or a full-blown infestation, Plunkett’s Pest Control has the tools and expertise to help. Contact us today to reclaim your home from ants!
