Are you noticing tiny, pesky flies buzzing around your sink or bathroom drain? You could have a drain fly problem. These little critters love to make themselves at home in areas where there’s standing water or a buildup of organic matter. While they’re not harmful, they can be a nuisance.
Below, we’re outlining the causes of drain flies, and a step-by-step guide for getting rid of them!
What Are Drain Flies?
Drain flies, also known as sewer gnats or moth flies, are small, winged insects that thrive in damp environments. They feed and breed in places like kitchen sinks, bathroom drains, and shower pipes, making your home their perfect breeding ground. These flies are about 1/16 to 1/4 inch in size and have fuzzy wings, giving them a moth-like appearance.
Drain Flies vs. Fruit Flies
It’s easy to mistake drain flies for fruit flies, but they’re very different. While fruit flies are attracted to decaying food, especially fruits and vegetables, drain flies prefer the moist, grimy environment of drains. Fruit flies are typically found around your kitchen where food is stored, while drain flies are more likely to hang out near your sink or bathroom drains.
Why Do I Have Drain Flies?
Because drain flies are drawn to moisture and organic matter, the most likely cause is a buildup in your drains. Over time, substances like soap scum, grease, and food particles can accumulate in pipes, creating the perfect environment for these flies to breed. Stagnant water in unused drains or pipes can also attract them.
Where Are Drain Flies Found?
Here are some common areas where they’re likely to breed:
1. Bathroom and kitchen sinks
Bathroom sinks and kitchen sinks are high-traffic drains and are prone to trapping organic material from daily use. Whether it’s grease and food particles from cooking or hair and soap, the constant presence of moisture and debris makes them drain fly hotspots.
2. Shower and tub drains
With constant exposure to soapy water, hair, and dead skin cells, shower and tub drains often build up significant organic material over time. Without regular cleaning, these drains provide the perfect habitat for drain flies to feed and reproduce.
3. Floor drains in basements or garages
These low-maintenance areas are often overlooked. Since floor drains may not be used frequently, water can stagnate, allowing grime and organic material to build up. This slow accumulation creates a hidden environment for drain flies to thrive undisturbed.
4. Leaky pipes or areas with standing water
Drain flies don’t limit themselves to drains alone. Any place with a water leak, pooling water, or consistently damp conditions can become a breeding ground. They’re drawn to moist environments, including under-sink cabinets or crawl spaces where a slow leak might go unnoticed.
How to Get Rid of Drain Flies
Getting rid of drain flies doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require a little persistence and the right approach. Follow this simple step-by-step guide to clear your drains and keep these pesky flies from returning.
1. Identify the Source
Check areas with moisture and organic buildup. Focus on your kitchen, bathroom, basement, or any unused drains. You can place duct tape over the drain overnight, and check to see if flies are stuck to it in the morning.
2. Clean Your Drains
Use a drain brush or a pipe cleaning tool to scrub the inside of the drain, removing any debris where flies could be breeding. Be thorough around bends and joints in the pipes, as this is where buildup tends to collect. You can also enlist the help of a professional plumber for drain cleaning and servicing.
3. Flush the Drains
Pour boiling water down the drain to loosen and flush away any remaining organic material. You can also use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to break down stubborn debris, followed by hot water after about 30 minutes.
4. Prevent Future Infestations
Keep your drains clean and free of standing water. Regularly flushing drains with hot water and keeping areas dry can prevent drain flies from returning. Consider using a drain guard to catch food particles or hair before they can enter the pipes.
Professional Drain Cleaning in Northern Virginia
Don’t let drain flies take over your home – schedule an appointment today with your trusted neighborhood plumbers at Kiddco Plumbing! Contact us today for expert drain service and cleaning.
