Application Equipment
Sprayers, dusters, foamers, and other equipment for applying pesticides effectively - proper equipment selection and maintenance critical for results.
Detailed Overview
Application equipment must match product and situation. (1) Pump sprayers: 1-3 gallon tank with manual pump. For crack-and-crevice, spot treatments, small jobs. Nozzle options: pin-stream for cracks, fan for spot treatments. (2) Power sprayers: electric or gas-powered 50-300 gallon tanks. For perimeter treatments, large properties, exterior applications. (3) Backpack sprayers: 2-4 gallon tank worn on back. For interior/exterior versatility, stairs, tight areas. (4) Aerosol cans: ready-to-use pressurized. For crack-and-crevice, spot treatments, convenience. (5) Hand dusters: bulb or piston duster for small dust jobs. For wall voids through outlets, localized dusting. (6) Electric dusters: battery or electric powered. For attics, crawlspaces, large dusting jobs. Better distribution than hand dusters. (7) Foamers: attach to sprayers creating foam. For void treatments, expanding foam carries insecticide throughout voids. (8) Bait guns: caulk-gun style applicators for gel baits. Precise bait placement. (9) Granular spreaders: broadcast or hand-held for granular applications. Equipment maintenance: clean after each use preventing clogging and cross-contamination, replace worn nozzles and gaskets, calibrate sprayers to ensure proper output, label equipment for product to prevent mixing incompatibles.
When to Use
Select appropriate equipment for application type and site. Maintain equipment properly. Clean thoroughly between uses. Calibrate regularly. Replace worn parts. Keep backup equipment for breakdowns.
Required Skill Level
Requires some training and experience in pest management
Benefits
- Appropriate equipment improves application effectiveness
- Proper maintenance prevents breakdowns
- Quality equipment demonstrates professionalism
- Calibrated equipment ensures label compliance
- Multiple equipment types cover all applications
Limitations
- Significant equipment investment
- Requires maintenance and cleaning
- Equipment failures delay service
- Must transport multiple types
- Storage space needed
Related Concepts
Other tools that may be useful
Tamper-Resistant Bait Stations
Locked, anchored devices that contain rodent bait safely away from children, pets, and non-target wildlife.
Moisture Meters
Electronic devices detecting elevated moisture in wood and building materials - essential for identifying conducive conditions for termites, carpenter ants, and wood decay.
Inspection Tools and Equipment
Essential tools for thorough pest inspections - flashlights, mirrors, probes, ladders, cameras, magnifiers, and protective gear.