Cockroaches: which one you have changes the plan.
Several kinds of cockroaches live in the West Valley. Some wander in from the yard or sewer, and one breeds right inside your kitchen. Knowing which species you are seeing is the first step to getting rid of it.
Identifying cockroaches
The American cockroach is the big one, up to about two inches long and reddish-brown with a pale band behind the head. It lives in sewers, irrigation boxes and moist areas outside and comes up through floor drains, tubs and gaps around plumbing, especially in summer heat. Turkestan and oriental cockroaches are also common outdoors around Valley homes.
The German cockroach is a different problem. It is small, about half an inch, light brown with two dark stripes behind the head, and lives indoors in kitchens and bathrooms. It reproduces quickly, hides in cabinet hinges, appliances and electronics, and usually arrives in grocery boxes, used appliances or secondhand furniture.
Outdoor roaches move in when it gets very hot or after monsoon rains flood their hiding spots. Leaky plumbing, AC drip lines and damp irrigation boxes near the house keep them close. Indoor German roaches stay put wherever there is food, water and warmth, and they will not leave on their own.
Why they matter
Cockroaches travel through drains, garbage and sewers, then walk across counters and dishes. Their droppings, shed skins and saliva can contaminate food and can trigger allergies and asthma in some people. A few large roaches in summer are common in the desert. Small roaches in the kitchen during the day often point to a growing German cockroach infestation.
Signs of activity
- Roaches running from drains, under appliances or across the floor when lights come on
- Pepper-like droppings in drawers, cabinet corners or behind the fridge
- Brown, capsule-shaped egg cases in cabinets or under sinks
- A musty, oily odor in cabinets with heavy activity
- Small roaches visible during the day, which can mean a crowded population
Prevention tips for Arizona homes
- Keep drain stoppers in place or use drain covers in tubs, showers and floor drains
- Fix leaky faucets, pipes and AC drip lines so roaches do not have easy water
- Store food in sealed containers and do not leave dishes or pet food out overnight
- Seal gaps around plumbing under sinks and behind the washer and dishwasher
- Check grocery boxes and secondhand appliances before bringing them inside
- Keep irrigation boxes, meter boxes and the yard near the house free of debris
When to call a pro
Occasional American roaches respond well to regular exterior treatment. German roaches inside are different and rarely go away with store sprays. Bryce identifies the species, treats the places they actually hide and follows up. Monthly plans include free re-service between visits.
Questions about cockroaches
Don’t see your question? Call or text (623) 363-3124 and you’ll get Bryce, not a call center.
Why do I see big roaches come out of my drains?
American cockroaches live in sewer lines and come up through drains, especially in summer. Dry traps in unused sinks, showers and floor drains make it easier. Run water in rarely used drains every week, keep stoppers in, and seal gaps around plumbing under sinks.
Does having German cockroaches mean my house is dirty?
No. German roaches often hitch a ride in on boxes, appliances or furniture, even in clean homes. Crumbs and grease help them grow faster, so good cleanup matters, but cleaning alone usually will not eliminate them once they are breeding inside.
Will foggers get rid of roaches?
Foggers tend to drift over open surfaces and miss the cracks where roaches actually hide, and they can scatter German roaches deeper into walls. Targeted treatment in harborage areas works much better. Text us a photo of the roach and we can tell you what you are dealing with.
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