How to Get Rid of Drain Flies (A Definitive Guide)

If you have noticed small insects flying around your home, specifically near your bathroom drains, sink, or septic tank, there’s a possibility that you have a drain fly infestation. Don’t be too alarmed, though, as drain flies don’t bite and cannot harm humans. But their presence can be quite annoying, and it’s best to eliminate them from your home as soon as possible.

What are Drain Flies and What Causes Them?

Drain flies, also known as filter flies or sink flies, are small, fuzzy, gray or brown insects that usually measure about ⅕ inch in length. They are classified as a type of moth fly or psychodidae, and their name comes from their tendency to breed in damp areas, particularly in drain pipes, septic tanks, and sewers.

Drain Flies vs. Fruit Flies vs. Moth Flies

It’s essential to know the difference between drain flies, fruit flies, and moth flies so that you can take the appropriate measures to get rid of them effectively. Fruit flies are attracted to ripe fruits and vegetables, while drain flies, as the name suggests, breed in standing water, particularly in drain pipes. Moth flies, on the other hand, are usually found near bodies of water, such as ponds and rivers, and are typically active during the nighttime.

Why Do Drain Flies Come?

Drain flies love to breed in standing water, particularly in warm and humid environments with slow-moving drains. They are attracted to organic matter, including hair, soap scum, and food particles that have accumulated in the pipes over time.

What Are the Harmful Effects of Drain Flies?

Adult drain flies aren’t necessarily harmful to humans, but they can be quite annoying and unsightly. However, their larvae can cause damage to sewer lines, septic tanks, and plumbing systems if left unchecked. Additionally, a large population of drain flies may indicate that there is a bigger underlying issue with your plumbing system.

Preventing Drain Flies

The best way to get rid of drain flies is to prevent them from breeding in the first place. Here are some ways to achieve that:

Identify Standing Water and Eliminate It

One of the most effective ways to prevent drain flies is to eliminate any potential breeding grounds. Keep an eye out for standing water, particularly in areas near your drains, and regularly check for leaks in your plumbing system. If you find any standing water, promptly remove it and dry the area thoroughly.

Keep Drains Clean and Free-Flowing

It’s essential to keep your drains clean and free-flowing to prevent drain flies from breeding in them. Use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to clean your drain pipes, or use a commercial drain cleaner to break down any accumulated debris and organic matter in the pipes.

Seal Cracks and Crevices Where Drain Flies Might Hatch

Drain flies can hatch from small holes or cracks in your plumbing system, so it’s essential to seal any crevices or cracks promptly. Additionally, you can install drain covers or screens to prevent drain flies from entering and breeding in your pipes.

Ways to Get Rid of Drain Flies

If you already have a drain fly problem, there are several ways to get rid of them:

Pour Boiling Water Down the Drain

Boiling water is an effective way to kill drain flies and their larvae. Simply pour boiling water down the drain, ensuring that it reaches all areas where the drain flies may be breeding. Repeat this process several times, if necessary.

Use a Homemade Drain Cleaner

You can also use a homemade drain cleaner made with baking soda and vinegar to break down any organic matter and debris in your pipes. Mix equal parts baking soda and vinegar and pour the mixture down the drain. Let it sit for several minutes, then rinse with boiling water.

Call in a Professional Pest Control Service

If the infestation is severe or persists despite your efforts, it’s best to call in a professional pest control service. They will have the expertise and equipment needed to eliminate the drain flies from your home effectively.

Protecting Your Home from Drain Flies

After you’ve eliminated the drain flies from your home, it’s essential to take measures to prevent them from returning. Here are some ways to do that:

Regularly Clean Drains and Pipes

It’s important to clean your drains and pipes regularly to prevent any potential breeding grounds from forming. Use a commercial drain cleaner or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to keep your pipes clean and free-flowing.

Use Apple Cider Vinegar Traps

You can also use apple cider vinegar traps to catch any remaining adult drain flies in your home. Place a small amount of apple cider vinegar in a jar or bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and poke several small holes in the wrap. The drain flies will be attracted to the vinegar and will become trapped inside the jar.

Consider Adding a Drain Cover or Screen

Another way to prevent drain flies from entering and breeding in your pipes is to install drain covers or screens. These will block any potential entry points and prevent drain flies from breeding in your pipes.

FAQ

Q: What are drain flies, and are they harmful?

A: Drain flies, also known as moth flies, are small, fuzzy flies that typically congregate in damp areas, such as drains, pipes, and sewage systems. While they are generally not harmful to humans or pets, they can be a nuisance when they infest homes and businesses.

Q: How do I know if I have a drain fly infestation?

A: The most common signs of a drain fly infestation include small, fuzzy flies in and around drains, as well as the presence of their larvae in standing water, such as sinks, showers, and toilet bowls.

Q: Where do drain flies come from?

A: Drain flies are typically found near water sources, such as drains, sinks, and toilets, where they lay their eggs in organic material that has accumulated in pipes or drains. They may also be brought in from outdoors or through infested materials.

Q: What causes drain flies?

A: Drain flies are attracted to moist environments and organic material, such as hair, soap scum, and food particles, that can build up in drains and pipes. This makes areas such as kitchens and bathrooms with standing water breeding grounds for drain flies.

Q: How can I get rid of drain flies?

A: To eliminate drain flies, first remove their breeding ground by cleaning any standing water and debris from drains and pipes. Then, try using a mixture of baking soda and vinegar, or a commercial drain cleaner, to clear out any remaining organic matter and larvae.

Q: Can drain flies harm me or my pets?

A: Drain flies are not known to cause harm to humans or pets, but their larvae can potentially irritate skin and eyes if they come into contact with humans or animals.

Q: How can I prevent drain flies from coming back?

A: To prevent drain flies from returning, keep all drain openings covered with mesh or screens, reduce moisture in your home or business, and regularly clean drains and pipes to prevent organic buildup.

Q: What is the difference between fruit flies and drain flies?

A: While both fruit flies and drain flies are small, flying insects, they are different species. Fruit flies are typically found near produce and are attracted to sweet, fermenting substances, while drain flies are attracted to standing water and organic material in pipes and drains.

Q: Should I try to eliminate drain flies on my own or call a pest control professional?

A: While there are several DIY methods for eliminating drain flies, such as using baking soda and vinegar or a commercial drain cleaner, if the infestation is severe or persistent, it may be best to call a pest control professional for more effective and long-lasting solutions.

Q: How quickly can I get rid of drain flies for good?

A: The timeline for eliminating a drain fly infestation depends on the severity of the infestation, the effectiveness of the treatment method, and how well prevention methods are implemented. In some cases, elimination can take several weeks.

Conclusion

Drain flies may not be harmful to humans, but they can be quite annoying and unsightly. It’s essential to take measures to prevent and eliminate them from your home as soon as possible. Regularly clean your drains and plumbing system, eliminate any potential breeding grounds, and call in a professional pest control service if necessary. By taking these steps, you can permanently get rid of drain flies and protect your home from future infestations.