If you’ve noticed small, moth-like insects fluttering around your drains, you may be dealing with drain flies. These pesky critters, also known as filter flies, sink flies, sewer flies, or moth flies, can be a nuisance in Australian homes.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about drain flies, including how to identify them, what causes infestations, and, most importantly, how to get rid of them for good.
What Are Drain Flies?
Drain flies are small, fuzzy insects that grow to about 1.5-5mm in size. They have a moth-like appearance with tiny, hairy wings and antennae. The moth fly is a common species within the drain fly category, known for its distinctive moth-like appearance and preference for moist, organic-rich environments.
These flies are attracted to moist, organic-rich environments like drains, sewers, and compost piles, where they lay their eggs and breed.
In contrast, fruit flies are usually smaller, have different colouration, and are often found near overripe or rotting fruit, while drain flies prefer damp and wet areas like drains and sewers.
The Drain Fly Life Cycle
Female drain flies can lay between 30-200 eggs at a time in the organic matter that builds up inside moist drains. The eggs hatch within 48 hours, and the larvae feed on the decaying material. It takes about 1-4 weeks for the larvae to mature into adult drain flies.
Are Drain Flies Harmful?
While drain flies are a nuisance, they are relatively harmless to human health. They don’t bite or spread any major diseases. However, some people may experience allergic reactions to the fine hairs on the flies’ bodies.
Additionally, a drain fly infestation can be an indicator of underlying plumbing issues or unsanitary conditions that need to be addressed.
What Causes Drain Fly Infestations?
Drain flies are attracted to the moist, organic matter that can accumulate in drains and pipes over time. Common causes of infestations include:
- Build-up of hair, soap scum, and other debris in drains, drain pipes, and drain traps
- Leaky pipes or fixtures that create consistently damp environments
- Stagnant water in rarely used drains, toilets, or air conditioning units
- Moist compost piles or standing water on your property.
How to Get Rid of Drain Flies
If you’re dealing with a drain fly infestation, don’t worry. There are several effective methods you can use to eliminate drain flies:
- Clean your drains thoroughly: Use a pipe brush or plumbing snake to remove any built-up organic matter, then pour boiling hot water down the drain to flush out the area adequately.
- Clean and maintain floor drains: Floor drains are prime locations for drain flies and their breeding ground, mainly due to moisture and decaying organic material. To prevent breeding, regularly clean these drains and ensure they are free of debris.
- Set traps: Place a bowl filled with equal parts sugar, water, and white vinegar near the affected drain to create a simple trap. The flies will be attracted to the sweet mixture and drown.
- Use a natural drain cleaner: Pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of white vinegar. Let the mixture sit for a few hours before flushing with hot water. This will help break down any remaining organic matter.
- Apply a chemical drain cleaner: For tough infestations, you may need to use a commercial drain cleaner. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and wear protective gloves and eyewear.
- Maintain clean drains: Regularly clean your drains and fix any leaks to prevent future infestations.
Preventing Drain Fly Infestations
The best way to deal with drain flies is to prevent them from taking up residence in your home in the first place. To prevent drain flies, here are some tips:
- Clean your drains regularly to avoid the build-up of organic matter
- Fix any leaky pipes or fixtures promptly
- Use all drains in your home frequently to prevent stagnant water from accumulating
- Properly maintain outdoor compost piles and eliminate any standing water on your property.
Plumbing Maintenance to Prevent Drain Flies
Regular plumbing maintenance is essential to prevent drain fly infestations. Here are some tips to help you keep your drains clean and free of drain flies:
- Clean Your Drains Regularly: Use a wire brush or plumber’s snake to remove any debris or buildup in your drain pipes. This helps eliminate the organic matter that drain fly larvae feed on.
- Use Drain Screens or Filters: Install drain screens or filters to catch hair and other particles that can clog your drains and create a breeding ground for moth flies.
- Run Hot Water Through Drains: Regularly pour boiling water down your drains to help dissolve any grease or debris that may be building up. This simple step can go a long way in preventing drain fly infestations.
- Natural Drain Cleaners: Consider using a natural drain cleaner, such as a mixture of baking soda and vinegar, to help break down tough blockages. Pour a cup of baking soda followed by a cup of vinegar down the drain, let it sit for a few hours, and then flush with hot water.
- Check Floor Drains and Sump Pump Pits: Regularly inspect your floor drains and sump pump pits to ensure they are not clogged and are functioning properly. These areas can be prime locations for drain fly breeding if not maintained.
- Install Drain Fly Traps or Screens: To catch any adult drain flies that may be present, consider installing drain fly traps or screens in your drains. This can help reduce the population of filter flies in your home.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
If you’ve tried the above methods and are still struggling with a persistent drain fly infestation, it may be time to call in a professional.
A licensed plumber like our professional team can help identify and fix any underlying issues with your plumbing that may be attracting the flies. They can also apply stronger, commercial-grade treatments to eliminate the infestation.
Key Takeaways
- Drain flies are small, moth-like insects that breed in the moist, organic matter that accumulates in drains and pipes.
- While they are not harmful to human health, drain flies can be a nuisance and may indicate underlying plumbing issues.
- To get rid of drain flies, thoroughly clean your drains, set traps, use natural or chemical drain cleaners, and maintain a clean and leak-free home.
- Prevent future infestations by regularly cleaning your drains, fixing leaks promptly, and properly managing outdoor compost piles and standing water.
- If home remedies fail, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber to address persistent infestations or underlying plumbing problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do drain flies look like?
Drain flies are tiny insects, typically 1.5-5mm in size, with fuzzy, moth-like wings and antennae. They are usually dark-coloured, ranging from grey to black.
Where do drain flies come from?
Drain flies, also known as sewer gnats, are attracted to moist, organic-rich environments like drains, sewers, septic tanks, and compost piles. They lay their eggs in the slimy film that builds up inside pipes and drains.
Can drain flies make you sick?
While drain flies are not known to transmit any major diseases, some people may experience allergic reactions to the fine hairs on their bodies. Additionally, their presence can indicate unsanitary conditions in your plumbing that may pose health risks.
How long does it take to get rid of drain flies?
The time it takes to eliminate a drain fly infestation depends on the severity of the problem and the methods used. Consistent cleaning and treatment can often resolve the issue within a few days to a week. However, more persistent infestations may require professional intervention.
Can drain flies lay eggs in toilets?
Yes, drain flies can lay eggs in toilets, particularly if they are rarely used and the water becomes stagnant. Regular cleaning and flushing of all toilets in your home can help prevent drain fly infestations.
Do drain flies die in the winter?
Drain flies can survive year-round in the warm, moist environments inside your plumbing. However, outdoor populations may die off during colder months.
Will bleach kill drain flies?
While bleach can kill drain flies on contact, it may not effectively eliminate the organic matter that attracts them to your drains. A combination of physical removal, enzymatic drain cleaners, and regular maintenance is often more effective for long-term control.
Can I pour boiling water down the drain to get rid of drain flies?
Pouring boiling water down the drain can help kill drain fly larvae and eggs, but it may not remove the slimy film that they feed on. For best results, use boiling water in conjunction with other methods, like physical scrubbing and enzymatic cleaners.
