While cockroaches can contaminate appliances and their contents, they won't cause damage. Cockroaches can spread bacteria like E. coli and salmonella, making it important to keep them out of places where food is stored, such as a refrigerator. When it comes to electronics, however, cockroaches could potentially damage internal electrical components. As the pests navigate inside a TV or console, they may touch high-voltage components that could short out your product. This damage could lead to costly repairs or require replacements.

Always begin by removing the gnat's source of food. Toss rotting fruit, place new fruit in the fridge, and switch the soil of your houseplants. 

The best way to get rid of gnats in the kitchen is by baiting and trapping them with something sweet. Combine water with a few drops of dish soap, apple cider vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of sugar into a bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and poke small holes to trap the gnat in the liquid.

It can be difficult to know what type of animal is in your attic until you see it. But several clues can help you narrow down the suspects:

• Sounds: Smaller animals like rats and mice make scurrying and tapping/gnawing sounds. Larger animals like raccoons and opossums make louder clambering noises. Also, note when animals are noisy: Squirrels are active during the day, while rats are busiest at night.

• Droppings: Rats and mice leave small, rice-shaped droppings (the rat’s version is significantly larger). Bigger droppings belong to larger critters like raccoons. As long as you’re not squeamish, an image search can help you identify what you’re seeing in your attic.

When in doubt, take photos of damage or other evidence and show them to an experienced pest control pro.

Termites, carpenter ants, and wood-boring beetles can move from wood furniture to other areas of your home. If you notice signs of bugs in wood furniture, it's best to remove and isolate it for treatment. Remember that it can be difficult to identify which type of pest you are dealing with, and they can already be in areas of your home.

If DIY methods don’t work or you don’t know which pest it is you should contact an exterminator if you are showing signs of wood-eating pests to prevent further damage.