No matter the time of year, warm weather can mean ants in your plants, on your patio and in your home.

There are more than 20 varieties of ants that invade or live in homes throughout the country during warmer months. Ants can even live inside year-round if there is adequate heat.

When it comes to eliminating ants, some homeowners seek out the help of a pest control professional. Professionals are trained to identify pests, treat the problem and recommend steps to prevent reinfestation. This is important since the untrained eye cannot always spot the damage pests can cause or identify them correctly.

However, there are a number of steps consumers can take on their own, according to Cindy Mannes, director of public affairs, National Pest Management Association.

• To keep ants out of buildings, caulk cracks and crevices around foundations that allow entry from the outside.

• Indoors, eliminate cracks and crevices wherever possible, especially in kitchens and other food-preparation and storage areas.

• Store sugar, syrup, honey and other sweets in closed containers that have been washed to remove residue from their exterior surfaces.

• Rinse out empty soft-drink containers and remove them from the building. Thoroughly clean up grease and spills. Take kitchen waste out daily when ants are a problem indoors.

• Look for indoor nesting sites, such as potted plants. If ants are found there, remove the plants and containers from the building, then submerge the infested pots for 20 minutes in water that contains a few drops of liquid soap.

This story provided by the North American Precis Syndicate, Inc.