How to Keep Mice from Chewing Wires

Rodents like mice and rats are pesky creatures that chew on different things to trim their constantly growing teeth. They gnaw on materials like wood, insulation, and wires. But this destructive habit leads to short circuits and broken appliances. It also increases the chances of house fires in a home.

So what are the best ways to prevent mice from chewing wires? To lessen the risk of house fires caused by mice, homeowners must eliminate possible entry points, remove food sources for mice, catch them with traps, cover the wires with anti-rodent tape, and contact an electrician to check the wirings. For car owners, it’s best to start the car regularly, remove the food around the car, park in the garage, use mice deterrents, and install wire mesh in the engine bay.

Different Ways to Prevent Mice from Nibbling on Wires

Even if they’re small, mice are destructive creatures that cause mild to severe damages to a home. Aside from weakening the house’s foundation whenever they build nests, mice’s habit of chewing on wires leads to huge problems. According to a 2012 report published by PestWorld, around 20% to 25% of the house fires in the country were caused by rodents.

In addition to residential properties, mice also camp inside cars especially during the fall and winter seasons. Even if the car doors are closed and the windows are rolled up, rats and mice still gain entry to the vehicle through the small openings under the engine. From there, they travel through the different parts of the car while gnawing anything they sink their teeth on.

Here are a few ways to prevent mice from chewing on the wires and causing more damage to your home or vehicle:

At Home

Eliminate All Possible Entry Points – Mice can’t build a nest inside the house if they can’t get inside in the first place. Remember that these pests fit in small holes that measure at least a quarter-inch, so inspect the property for such gaps. Seal these entry points using materials that make it hard for them to chew through like steel wool.
Remove Their Food Sources – Like other rodents, mice consume anything available to them including grains, nuts, meat scraps, pet food, and more. Seal all the food in airtight containers or keep them inside the refrigerator to prevent attracting mice. Keep the sink and dining table free of leftover food that these rodents might take.
Catch Mice with Traps – It’s time to catch mice using traps once there are obvious signs of their presence in the house, such as droppings, urine, and scratching noises. Dealing with the infestation by yourself won’t immediately solve it but it puts a dent on their population before the exterminators arrive.
Cover the Wires with the Anti-Rodent Tape – Anti-rodent electrical insulation tapes are utilized by homeowners to protect their wires from gnawing mice. This special type of electrical tape is infused with capsaicin that leaves a spicy taste for the mice whenever they attempt to chew the wires. But it’s also important to remember that this material is not a permanent solution to keep mice from chewing wires – the appropriate extermination method should still be followed.
Call an Electrician to Evaluate the Wiring – The best way to check if the wiring around the house is still working is to call an electrician. Chewed wires are bound to turn up following a mice extermination in the house even if you didn’t experience electrical problems.

In the Car

Start the Car Regularly – Vehicles parked outside are a great nesting place for rodents because it has all the quiet and comfort they need. Starting the car regularly makes the vehicle a lot less inviting for these rats and mice because they are bound to get disturbed sooner or later.
Remove All Food Inside and Around the Vehicle – These little rodents won’t hesitate to live in a car if it’s parked near a food source or there’s food inside. Ensure that the vehicle is far from garbage cans or pet feeders when parked.
Park the Vehicle Inside a Garage – Cars parked inside a garage have less chance of attracting rodents. But this still won’t guarantee that rats and mice stay away. Check the garage for gaps and holes that mice use to enter the property. Seal all these entry points using materials like steel wool for added protection.
Place Mice Deterrents in the Car – Several natural rodent repellents work in keeping mice away without leaving an unpleasant smell. Peppermint oil is a popular choice for many homeowners that also works for cars. Just put the homemade repellent in the engine bay to prevent mice from entering the vehicle.
Install Wire Mesh in the Engine Bay – Another way to seal off the vehicle from rodents is to place wire mesh under the hood of the car. This material blocks the openings like vents and hood scoops without affecting the airflow around the car.

Effective Rodent Control Services by Positive Pest Management

Here at Positive Pest Management, we offer high-quality rodent extermination services for your properties in New York City. Our highly trained technicians utilize the best tools and techniques to ensure quick and effective rodent exclusion work.

For IPM-based rodent control services, call Positive Pest Management at 1-800-294-3130 now.