WASHINGTON (DC News Now) -- As Spring temperatures awaken critters and pests, knowing how and when to pay for professional service to keep them at bay can lead to a great deal of savings. Consumer's Checkbook, a DC-based nonprofit that researches services, found that most monthly service plans a ren't essential. "The fact is that for most pest control problems, a single well-done treatment will eliminate the issue. And so, you know, I think you need to think twice about signing up for these plans," said Kevin Brasler, Consumer's Checkbook executive editor."The good news is that most pest control companies, if you sign up for their monthly plan, you can cancel later on if you decide you want treatment anymore." Brasler recommends watching how the professional handles your issue and following up yourself by spraying or loading bait stations. A single visit from a pest control company costs between $200 and $600 in the DMV. Consumer's Checkbook found that cost rarely comports with customer's satisfaction, so opting for the lowest-priced service is typically a savvy move. St. Patrick’s Day freebies, deals and coupons Hardware stores, like Glover Park Ace Hardware, stock supplies to handle pests of various shapes and sizes. Max Moses, an Ace Hardware employee, said someone on staff at your local hardware store should be able to help you find a solution for your pest problem. For mice infestations, he said leaving traps with peanut butter out is a fast and humane way to eradicate the problem. "They snap pretty quick, and everyone can pretty much attest that they work very well," Moses said. He recommends spraying near windows and cracks to tackle insect infestations. Bait stations are also an inexpensive way to stop a trail of ants in its tracks. Brasler said scrubbing a problem area down is key, though. In D.C., anyone with a rat issue can dial 311 to have traps set up for free. "They will set up traps and stuff for you. So it's really actually a fantastic service," Moses said, adding that the service enables city workers to track where rat infestations are problematic. ...read more read less