How to Get Rid of Drain Flies

Drain flies, also known as sewer flies, filter flies, or moth flies, can be a persistent nuisance in homes and businesses. These tiny, fuzzy insects thrive in moist environments, particularly in and around drains. While they are not harmful, their presence can be unsettling. At Drain Pro Plumbing, we understand the frustration of dealing with these pesky pests, and we’re here to help you tackle the problem effectively.

Before you start the process of getting rid of drain flies, it’s essential to ensure that you are dealing with them and not some other type of insect. Drain flies are about 1/16 to 1/4 inch in size, have a furry appearance, and their wings are shaped like leaves. They are often seen resting on walls near drains or flying in a zigzag pattern around sinks, showers, and other damp areas.

Step-by-Step Guide to Eliminate Drain Flies

1. Locate the Breeding Site

The first step in getting rid of drain flies is to find their breeding ground. Check all potential areas, including:

Kitchen and bathroom sinks
Shower and bathtub drains
Floor drains in basements or garages
Areas around septic tanks

To confirm the presence of drain flies, you can perform a simple test: Place a piece of clear tape over the drain opening, sticky side down, leaving a small section exposed for airflow. Check the drain again in 24 hours; if drain flies are present, they will get stuck to the tape as they try to exit the drain.

2. Clean the Drains Thoroughly

Once you have identified the breeding site, the next step is to clean the drains thoroughly. Here’s how:

Remove Organic Matter: Use a drain brush to scrub away any debris or organic matter inside the drain. This will remove the eggs and larvae that are breeding.
Flush with Boiling Water: Pour boiling water down the drain to kill any remaining larvae. Do this carefully to avoid burns.
Use a Drain Cleaner: Apply a bio-enzyme drain cleaner that breaks down organic material without harming your pipes. Avoid using harsh chemical cleaners as they can damage plumbing and are not always effective against larvae.

3. Maintain Clean Drains

Preventing future infestations is crucial. Regular maintenance can help keep drain flies at bay:

Routine Cleaning: Clean your drains regularly using a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. Pour half a cup of baking soda followed by half a cup of vinegar into the drain, let it sit for 15 minutes, and then flush with hot water.
Keep Drains Dry: When possible, keep sinks and drains dry overnight. Wipe them down after use to minimize the moisture that attracts drain flies.
Fix Leaks: Repair any leaks under sinks or in pipes to prevent standing water where flies can breed.
Use a Drain Cover. For drains that you don’t use regularly, consider getting a drain cover to prevent insects from entering.

4. Use Natural Repellents

In addition to cleaning, you can use natural repellents to deter drain flies:

Essential Oils: Oils like peppermint, eucalyptus, and lavender can repel drain flies. Add a few drops to a spray bottle with water and spray around the drains.
Apple Cider Vinegar Trap: Mix 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar and a little bit of dish soap in a bowl and leave it by the drain. The flies are attracted to the vinegar; the dish soap breaks the surface tension, causing the flies to drown.

5. Call a Professional

If your efforts to eliminate drain flies are unsuccessful, it might be time to call in the professionals. At Drain Pro Plumbing, we offer expert drain cleaning to ensure your home or business is free from drain flies and other plumbing issues.

Professional Drain Cleaning: Get Rid of Drain Flies For Good

Dealing with drain flies can be frustrating, but with the right approach, you can eliminate them effectively. By identifying the breeding sites, thoroughly cleaning and maintaining your drains, using natural repellents, and seeking professional help when needed, you can keep these pesky insects at bay. For any plumbing concerns or persistent drain fly problems, contact Drain Pro Plumbing – your trusted partner in Western Washington.

For more tips and professional plumbing services, visit our website or give us a call today! Feel free to reach out to Drain Pro Plumbing for all your plumbing needs. We are committed to providing top-notch service and ensuring your home remains pest-free and your plumbing runs smoothly.