Burrow Blasting: Carbon Monoxide Treatment for Gophers, Moles & Ground Squirrels
Burrow blasting is one of the most effective methods for eliminating burrowing rodents in Southern California. Rodent Guys uses professional carbon monoxide (CO) equipment to treat underground tunnel systems directly, reaching gophers, moles, and ground squirrels where they live. Combined with our trapping services, burrow blasting gives property owners a fast and thorough solution to persistent rodent problems.
How Burrow Blasting Works
Our technicians locate active tunnel systems using soil probes and visual indicators such as fresh mounds, surface ridges, and plugged openings. Once active runs are confirmed, the technician seals all visible tunnel exits and introduces carbon monoxide gas directly into the burrow system using specialized equipment.
The gas fills the entire tunnel network, reaching chambers and side tunnels that traps alone may not cover. Treatment is performed outdoors with all gas contained underground, so there is no risk to people, pets, or plants on the surface. After treatment, the gas dissipates naturally through the soil.
Propane Gopher Blaster vs. Carbon Monoxide
Some pest control providers use propane-and-oxygen blasters that create an underground explosion to collapse tunnels and kill rodents. While effective, these devices are loud, can damage irrigation lines and landscaping, and are restricted in many areas due to fire risk.
Rodent Guys uses carbon monoxide-based treatment instead of propane blasters. CO treatment is quiet, does not damage underground infrastructure, and carries no fire risk. The results are comparable to propane blasting without the drawbacks, making it the preferred method for residential properties, HOA common areas, and commercial landscapes.
When We Recommend Burrow Blasting
Burrow blasting works well in several situations where trapping alone may not be enough:
Large or established tunnel systems — When a gopher or ground squirrel colony has been active for months or years, the tunnel network can span hundreds of feet. Carbon monoxide fills the entire system at once rather than targeting one tunnel at a time.
Ground squirrel colonies — Ground squirrels live in groups and maintain deep, branching burrow systems. CO treatment reaches squirrels in chambers that may be several feet underground.
Properties with recurring activity — If rodents keep returning to the same area, there may be deep tunnels that survive surface-level treatment. Burrow blasting eliminates the full tunnel infrastructure.
Combination with trapping — Many jobs use both methods. Trapping targets active surface runs while CO treatment handles the deeper tunnel network. This combination approach produces the best results on properties with heavy rodent activity.
What to Expect During Service
A typical burrow blasting visit takes 30 to 60 minutes for a standard residential property. The technician will inspect your property, identify active burrow systems, seal tunnel openings, and apply treatment. You do not need to leave your home during service since all treatment occurs underground in your yard.
After treatment, the technician checks for any remaining activity and sets traps if needed. Follow-up visits are scheduled to confirm the rodents have been eliminated. Gopher and mole services include our 60-day guarantee — if activity returns, we retreat at no additional cost.
Service Areas
Rodent Guys provides burrow blasting and carbon monoxide rodent treatment throughout Los Angeles County, Orange County, Riverside County, and San Bernardino County. Same-week scheduling is available in most areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is burrow blasting?
Burrow blasting is a professional pest control method that introduces carbon monoxide gas directly into underground tunnel systems to eliminate burrowing rodents like gophers, moles, and ground squirrels. The gas fills the entire tunnel network for thorough treatment.
Is carbon monoxide treatment safe for pets and children?
Yes. Carbon monoxide is applied directly into sealed underground burrows. The gas dissipates quickly in soil and does not leave surface residue, making it safe for use around pets, children, and gardens.
How does a propane gopher blaster work?
A propane gopher blaster mixes propane and oxygen, then ignites the mixture inside the tunnel system. The concussive force collapses tunnels and eliminates rodents. Rodent Guys uses carbon monoxide-based methods which are quieter and equally effective without the explosion or fire risk.
How long does burrow blasting take?
A typical residential treatment takes 30 to 60 minutes depending on the size of the tunnel system. The technician seals visible openings, introduces the gas, and monitors the treatment to ensure full coverage of the tunnel network.
Does burrow blasting damage my lawn or garden?
No. Unlike propane blasters, carbon monoxide treatment does not create explosions or collapse tunnels violently. Your lawn, irrigation system, and landscaping remain intact.
Ready to get rid of gophers, moles, or ground squirrels? Call Rodent Guys at 909-599-4711 or request a free estimate.