Squirrels are cute, playful, and ecologically helpful in the dispersal of seeds and spores, but that’s of little solace when the little critters wreak big havoc on electrical wiring, an issue that has led many a homeowner to wonder: how to stop squirrels from chewing wires?
Well, you’re in luck!
In this guide to wildlife and electrical issues, we’ll provide you with tips and tricks that you can squirrel away for use later on during this spring’s breeding season, perhaps the most common time for homeowners to experience squirrel-related wiring problems.
Squirrels Chewing Electrical Wires: Why Do They Do It?
Did you know that a squirrel’s teeth never stop growing? Yep. And if their teeth become too long, they’re unable to open acorns or nuts, which is, of course, key to their survival. That means that in order to control the growth of their gnashers, squirrels have to chew through material that creates friction and grinds the teeth down – in many cases, this means the electrical wiring in a home’s attic.
Why is Electrical Wiring So Vulnerable to Squirrels?
To protect themselves from the elements and predators, as well as to nurture their young, squirrels build nests in locations that offer warmth and safety. Unfortunately, this means that the attic of your home is an ideal spot for them. Once they’ve chewed a hole in your roof and entered the attic, squirrels like to nest and have babies during the spring breeding season, giving their offspring free reign to gnaw on anything hard they can get their teeth on – including your electrical wiring!
What Problems Do Squirrels Chewing Wires Cause?
When a squirrel chews on an electrical wire, the frayed or damaged wires can lead to power outages in your house. These exposed wires may also spark and cause fires, which can be particularly destructive when they begin in an attic, where boxes are typically stored.
And we probably don’t need to tell you about the chaos that can be caused by a squirrel chewing through a wire that connects your internet and streaming services!
How to Keep Squirrels From Eating Wires?
That’s why you’re here, right – finding the answer to the question “How to stop squirrels from chewing wires?” Well, let’s get to it!
There are several strategies you can undertake, often in conjunction with each other, to prevent squirrels from eating electrical wires, including:
- Use protective coverings: Encase exposed wires in conduit or protective metal sleeves. These coverings can be made of materials that are hard for squirrels to chew through, such as metal or rigid plastic.
- Apply repellents: Use taste or scent repellents specifically designed to deter squirrels. These can be applied directly to the wires or the surrounding area. Make sure to use repellents that are safe for use around electrical equipment.
- Remove attractants: Ensure that there are no food sources or nesting materials near the wires that might attract squirrels.
- Trim trees and branches: Keep trees and branches trimmed away from your house and electrical lines, as squirrels can use them to access the wires.
- Install physical barriers: Use hardware cloth, metal flashing, or other barriers to block access to areas where wires are located.
- Use ultrasonic devices: Some ultrasonic devices claim to repel rodents, including squirrels, by emitting sounds that are unpleasant to them (the effectiveness of these devices vary, so do your research before investing!).
- Regular inspections: Regularly inspect your wires and electrical equipment for signs of squirrel activity and address any issues by promptly calling a wildlife removal specialist!
In attempting to combat squirrels chewing through electrical wiring, the key is to act quickly if you notice any signs of squirrel activity in your home. And remember – always follow any local wildlife protection laws and regulations when you’re dealing with any sort of animal intruder!
If squirrels have already gotten to your electrical wires in Englewood, CO, or the greater Denver area, don’t hesitate to contact B&W Electric today!
