But they can be quite a nuisance, especially when they show up in large numbers.
Kelsey Hansen
Large drain-fly infestations, however, can cause health risks.
They can also worsen bronchial asthma symptoms.
Credit:Kelsey Hansen
So how do you get rid of drain flies for good?
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What Are Drain Flies?
Drain flies have small, round, fuzzy bodies measuring about 1.5 mm to 5 mm long.
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Drain flies are poor fliers.
Instead, they tend to hop from surface to surface or fly for short distances.
Where the flies are located is another clue.
Credit:Kelsey Hansen
Whereas drain flies tend to congregate around leaky pipes, sewers, and sink drains.
Another way to tell the difference is that drain flies have a fuzzy appearance while fruit flies do not.
Where Do Drain Flies Come From?
Credit:Kelsey Hansen
To get rid of drain flies, you first have to know where they’re coming from.
To check your pipes for drain flies, use the following methods.
If you find flies stuck in the tape, you have found the breeding source.
Check for Larvae
Checking for adult drain flies is recommended over trying to find larvae.
After all, drain fly larvae are incredibly small and, usually, they are deep within the pipes.
If you find them, start bycleaning your drainsand pipes thoroughly.
Non-natural options include using peracetic acid (4000 ppm) or bleach to eliminate buildup in the drain pipes.
Traditional store-bought drain cleaners, chemical sprays, and repellents also help eliminate adult flies.
Last, insect growth regulators, like Gentrol Aerosol, can prevent adult drain flies from laying eggs.
Keep kitchen and bathroom areas clean.
Clean up spills, crumbs, and food residue promptly.
Also, regularplumbing maintenancecan prevent future buildups of organic matter.
However, bigger infestations won’t disappear on their own.
