Drain flies, also known as moth flies, can become a major nuisance if they are allowed to get out of control. They tend to live and breed in organic materials that can be found in drains so they are normally found in kitchens and bathrooms. They feed on moist organic materials, like the decaying vegetation that can be found in drains. They will lay their eggs in the decomposing organic matter that can be found in drains and pipes. Once hatched, these larvae will feed on the gelatinous matter that’s found in the drain. They will reach adulthood in 9 to 14 days. Since their life cycle is pretty quick, they can multiply in numbers rapidly and drain flies can become a major nuisance.
While they are not harmful themselves since they don’t transmit any diseases, they can contaminate foods and aggravate bronchial asthma. They are also simply disgusting and can make you and your home feel dirty. The best way to make certain that you are not visited by these insects is by keeping your drains clean and clear from the organic material that they need to survive. Doing this will not only keep these pesky pests away, but it also has the added benefit of keeping your sink unclogged.
If you do find that you have an infestation of drain flies, you will first need to clean the outside of the drain. Then move to the inside of the drain and clean that as well. Pour warm water into the drain and use a metal pipe brush to push up and down through the pipe to clean the sides of the pipe. A plumbing snake will also work to pull out the muck and gunk inside the drain. Once the drain fly is flushed away, so are the drain flies’ eggs. You now only have to deal with the adult drain flies, but they only live about 20 days or less so once they are gone so is your drain fly problem.
If you need additional assistance with your fly control problem, please contact Slug-A-Bug in Melbourne, FL.