How To Get Rid Of Drain Flies
Nothing can be more rewarding than homeownership. And while you take pride in your home, it’s ok to admit that certain maintenance issues arise that aren’t quite as rewarding. One such problem homeowners can run into is drain flies. The tiny, black flies tend to show up wherever there is a drain, including the kitchen and bathroom.
Drain flies can show up even in clean areas, so don’t take it personally. They are attracted to any kind of moisture, shallow water pools, and organic debris. In other words, they’re attracted to drains. So, if you have a sink, floor drain, spout, spigot, pipe, or water line, there’s a chance you’ll encounter drain flies.
The problem with drain flies is that they can be tough to prevent and a nuisance to eradicate. However, if you take a few proactive steps and follow these instructions, you’ll be drain fly-free in no time.
Routine Flushing
Drain flies usually thrive wherever there is standing or stagnant water. It’s why you’ll see them first in the bathroom, kitchen, or near a floor drain. One way to combat drain flies is by routine flushing drains, sinks, and toilets that don’t usually see daily use. Run water. Flush the toilets. And clean out the drain pans for refrigerators.
Boiling Water Flushes
For those sinks or drains that rarely get used will also benefit from a boiling water flush. The hot water can push stagnant water further down the pipes. But it can also remove any built-up debris that those drain flies love, too. This can be especially effective if you have occasional breaks in your drain line usage, like a vacation or absence from home.
Cleaning Drains Regularly
When it’s time to clean, it’s easy to scrub surfaces you use every day. But try to remember to also remember your drains. When you’re done wiping counters and cleaning mirrors, use a small scrub or toothbrush to work cleansers in and around drains.
Baking Soda Flushes
There are a few at-home mixes you can put together that act as cleaning agents for stagnant drains and pipes. Baking soda is a common ingredient. One variation combines baking soda with salt and white vinegar. And it works well to remove odors and flush any stale water that may be attracting drain flies.
Apple Cider Vinegar
If the drain flies are too abundant to handle, set out a bowl of water near the drain. In that water, include a few drops of common dish soap, sugar, and apple cider vinegar. It’s best to leave the bowl unattended for a few days to trap as many flies as possible. The sugar will attract them. The soap will trap them.
Call in the Professionals
Sometimes, drain flies are attracted to a water source you don’t see or know about, like a leaking pipe. If you suspect you have water collecting or pooling somewhere hidden that is responsible for drawing in the flies, it might be time to bring in a drain cleaning professional. Art Rooter, Sewer & Drain Cleaning can make sure you don’t have failing drainpipes or unseen concerns that might be contributing to your drain fly problem.
Our team can come in and find out if you have other problems leading to clogs or standing water, like:
- Tree roots invading sewer lines
- Flushed objects
- Broken or damaged drain lines
- Blocked or persistently clogging drain lines
Whenever you start seeing drain flies, consider some of these tips to eradicate them. And give our trusted drain cleaning professionals a call at 1-833-470-2880 for all your drain line and sewer concerns. flies included.
