The Electro-Gun uses high-frequency electrical current to electrocute termites directly in their galleries. It's one of the most specialized chemical-free treatments available — ideal for antiques, millwork, and localized infestations where no other method is acceptable.
What Is Electro-Gun Treatment?
The Electro-Gun is a professional termite treatment device that delivers high-frequency, low-current electrical energy into wood to electrocute termites in their galleries. Developed in the 1980s, it remains one of the few truly chemical-free termite treatments that also requires no heat, no drilling, and no evacuation.
The device uses electrical energy at a frequency that is lethal to insects but safe for wood, finishes, and occupants in the surrounding area. When the Electro-Gun probe is applied to an infested wood surface, the electrical current travels through the wood and kills termites on contact throughout the gallery network.
How the Electro-Gun Works
The Electro-Gun generates high-frequency alternating current (approximately 90,000 Hz) at voltages ranging from 90,000 to 160,000 volts — but at extremely low amperage (milliamps), making it safe to handle by licensed technicians.
When applied to infested wood:
1. Electrical current enters the wood at the probe contact point
2. Current spreads through the gallery network — the galleries act as conductors because of moisture content and termite biomass
3. Termites are electrocuted by the current passing through them — all individuals in the current path are killed instantly
4. Multiple application points ensure complete coverage of the gallery system
The treatment is immediate — there is no waiting period for chemical absorption or temperature equilibrium.
The Electro-Gun Treatment Process
Inspection
Our inspector identifies all infested areas through tapping, visual inspection, and frass mapping. The gallery layout is assessed to determine optimal application points for complete coverage.
Device Setup
The Electro-Gun probe is placed at gallery entry points — kick-out holes, cracks, or exposed gallery openings. No drilling is required in most cases.
Treatment
Current is applied to each location for the appropriate duration. Multiple probe positions ensure complete gallery coverage. Our technicians work methodically through all identified infested areas.
Coverage Verification
After treatment, we re-tap treated sections to listen for changes in resonance, and re-inspect kick-out holes and frass production. Absence of new frass over the follow-up period confirms successful elimination.
Documentation
Treated areas are photographed and mapped. All treated sections are covered under our warranty.
Who Should Choose Electro-Gun Treatment?
The Electro-Gun is the ideal choice for:
Antiques and High-Value Furniture
The Electro-Gun treats infested furniture without drilling, chemicals, or heat exposure — making it the only practical treatment option for antiques, heirlooms, and museum-quality pieces where other methods would cause damage.
Architectural Millwork and Cabinetry
Historically significant woodwork, custom built-ins, and fine millwork can be treated in place without drilling or chemical injection that would compromise the finish.
Localized Infestations Where Chemicals Are Unacceptable
Some environments — medical offices, food service areas, schools — have restrictions on chemical pesticide use. The Electro-Gun provides effective treatment without any chemical application.
Spot Treatments Following Other Methods
When fumigation or heat treatment has addressed the majority of an infestation and small residual pockets remain in accessible areas, the Electro-Gun provides precise follow-up treatment.
Electro-Gun vs. Other Chemical-Free Options
| Factor | Electro-Gun | Heat Treatment | Microwave |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemicals | None | None | None |
| Drilling required | No | No | No |
| Works on antiques | ✓ Best | Careful setup needed | ✓ Good |
| Area coverage | Gallery-specific | Room-level | Section-specific |
| Same-day re-entry | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Cost | Moderate | Higher | Moderate |
Limitations to Understand
- Gallery-specific — current follows the gallery path; cannot treat areas outside the gallery network
- Localized only — not practical for whole-structure or widespread infestations
- Requires accessible surfaces — probe must contact or be near the wood surface
- Not for subterranean termites — not effective against soil-dwelling species
Free Electro-Gun Consultation in Southern California
Ultimate Termite is one of the few pest control companies in Southern California still offering Electro-Gun treatment. Our licensed technicians can evaluate whether this specialized treatment is right for your situation — whether that's protecting a family heirloom or treating a localized infestation in a sensitive environment.
We serve all of Orange County, Los Angeles County, Inland Empire, and Riverside County. CA License #PR7791.