Q - Hey Unplggd,

This is sort of embarassing to admit, but I get freaked out by spiders. I don't like their spider webs. I don't like them crawling on me. I don't like them. And I happen to live in an area where there are extra-large, fat and juicy, cave jumping spiders. I don't want to kill them all, but more so keep them away with some kind of technology deterrent. Does anything exist or do I have to accommodate myself to living with these crawlies? -Brent

Updated!

A - Hey Brent,

Just to be clear, Unplggd does not advocate squishing of innocent animals in no way shape or form. However, there is a difference between an infestation and a nuisance, and for those with a true phobia, this can be more than a lifestyle burden. In any case, we're here to help!

We're guessing you're looking for some kind of home tech that'll deter them without requiring you to have to systematically run around collecting their dead spider corpses everywhere. The closest (and cleanest) solution we've heard of is the Pest Offense Electronic Pest Control solution, which uses the electric wiring within the walls of buildings to help get rid of rats, mice and roaches. It supposedly also works with ants, spiders, squirrels, crickets, silverfish, water bugs and earwigs.

While we haven't tested this ourselves, and do feel a bit skeptical even recommending it to you, if you're against the use of hazardous chemicals (insecticides and pesticides), then Pest Offense might just be your best bet.

Update: Thanks for the look-out, reader vinegar. We did not know of the prior FTC complaints alleged that any reaction by rodents to ultrasound would be temporary at best because rodents become accustomed to ultrasound and will return to their nesting or feeding areas even in the presence of an ultrasonic device. Furthermore, we found that previous FTC complaints alleged that ultrasound devices do not control insects. So, we do not recommend this product in any form or way, as it only works for a short duration until the animals habituate to the ultrasound.

We always try to provide the most accurate information here at Unplggd and we apologize for any previous misinformation for this product. If you know of a better solution for Brent, please don't hesitate to let us know below!