Question: How does one repel salamanders?

[ddm361]

I own a artesian well system which is located in a underground concrete block bunker. The problem is, I get salamanders that get into the electrical contacts of the pressure switch assembly which causes failure of the switch. The bunker is damp and there's nothing that can be done about that. Is there anything that can be done to repel the salamanders from
getting into this space? I don't know if perhaps some kind of chemistry (moth balls) or
maybe ultrasonics would work. Does anyone have any ideas?

 

[Jennewt]

Adjacent electrical contacts in a damp place... this sounds like an accident waiting to happen, with or without a salamander. Have you consulted an electrician about moving the switch to a non-damp location, or using a different kind of switch?

I would hesitate to use a chemical repellent, as it will probably end up killing any salamanders that venture near, and maybe other wildlife too. Or seep into the ground water.

 

[Lugubris]

Maybe chunks of cedar wood will work? I imagine it would smell pretty nasty to a salamander, and it would be non-toxic to most things.

 

[Kaysie]

I would think exclusion would be a better option than repulsion. Build some type of box or netting around your switch to prevent things from getting in.

Also: many people on this forum would kill to have a salamander infestation in their basement. lol

 

[ddm361]

:happy: Hi Jennewt, in terms of safety, there is nothing wrong with this electrical device mounted where it is, and this switch is the only approriate type for this application.
I was merely asking if there was a known way to keep the salamanders away. I suppose the suggestion of creating some kind of netting directly around the switch is the only viable solution.