Ants Around the Pool: What Arizona Homeowners Need to Know

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Arizona homeowners, particularly those with pools, are no strangers to the occasional ant invasion. These tiny pests, while small, can become a major nuisance, especially around the pool area. Understanding what attracts ants and how to discourage their activity can help keep outdoor living spaces free of ants (and other pests). If you’re a homeowner with a pool, here’s what you need to know.

What attracts ants to pools?

The first attractant is rather obvious: it’s a water source. Ants, like all living creatures, need water to survive. In our arid climate, a pool provides a readily available water source, attracting ants.

Pool sides often serve as dining areas during parties and barbecues. Crumbs, sugary drinks, and other food remnants can quickly attract ants.

The landscaping around pools often includes plants and decorative elements that attract ants.  

Once a few scout ants find food or water, they leave a pheromone trail for others to follow. If not managed promptly, this can quickly lead to an ant infestation.

Can ants damage pools? 

For the most part, ants are nuisance pests that are more annoying than harmful. Certain circumstances could lead to problems, though. For example, ants may chew through a pool’s liner, nest in a pool’s mechanical parts, and the bodies of dead ants can clog the pool’s filter.

How to discourage ant activity around your pool and yard

To make your pool and backyard less attractive to ants, our Arizona pest control company recommends the following ant prevention tips:

• Keep your pool clean.
• Keep your outdoor living space free of food and drink.
• Wipe up food and drink spills right away.
• Disinfect eating areas.
• Do not leave open food containers out for extended periods of time.
• Repair outdoor leaks around your pool and backyard.
• Ensure your yard drains properly to prevent water pooling in unintended areas.
• Clear away rocks, dirt, and debris that can serve as nesting spots.
• Keep plants and shrubs well-trimmed and away from the pool. Overgrown vegetation provides shelter and easy access points for ants.
• Be cautious when using mulch, as it can provide a habitat for ants.

What to do if you’ve already found ants around your pool

If you have seen ants around your pool, yard, or inside your home, contact Northwest Exterminating for help. Our pest control company serves Phoenix, Tucson, and Southern Arizona and is always ready to help property owners eliminate and prevent ant problems, as well as other pest infestations.

Our Defense Plan, a year-round home pest control plan, is the ideal way to protect against bugs and rodents and includes:

• An initial pest inspection and treatment to address the existing pest problems.
• Four seasonal services to keep pests away.
• Free re-treatments for covered pests.

For greater protection from insects and rodents, we encourage homeowners to consider signing up for our SmartDefense or SmartDefense Complete plans. You can compare the features below or give us a call to discuss your needs.

Contact Northwest Exterminating for help with ants!

By understanding what attracts ants to swimming pools and implementing the prevention tips we mentioned above, Arizona homeowners may be able to reduce ant activity and enjoy their outdoor spaces more fully. However, if it’s too late and you’re already battling these pests we’re here to help. Reach out today!