What temperature and duration will kill pests by freezing?

The correct answer is based on the fact that freezing temperatures need to be maintained for a sufficient period to effectively kill pests. At 0 degrees Fahrenheit, studies and pest control guidelines indicate that a duration of 48 hours is necessary to ensure that the majority of common pests, such as insects and larvae, are killed by freezing. This longer exposure time allows the cold to penetrate effectively, impacting the physiological functions of the pests and ultimately leading to their death.

While lower temperatures like 10 degrees Fahrenheit or 20 degrees Fahrenheit may also contribute to pest control, they require even longer periods to achieve the same effects. For instance, at 10 degrees Fahrenheit for 36 hours may not provide the lethal conditions needed for all pest species, and similarly, 20 degrees Fahrenheit would require an even longer duration to be as effective.

Thus, maintaining a consistent temperature of 0 degrees Fahrenheit for 48 hours strikes the right balance of cold intensity and exposure time needed for effective pest elimination.