Whether you call them sewer flies, drain bugs, drain moths or bathroom flies, let’s face it – drain flies are a pain in the backside. Unfortunately, identifying this stubborn little critter isn’t the tricky part, because if it’s a tiny little fuzzy moth-like creature buzzing in and around your sinks and rains, there’s almost nothing else that can be. The real question is how to get rid of drain flies.
But before we get to that, let’s turn that ‘Why me?’ question on its head and consider another: ‘Is there something I’ve done to attract this annoying pest?’
Unfortunately (again), the answer is probably yes.
That’s because drain flies simply love getting stuck into the deliciously decaying (ew!) organic matter that accumulates and lurks inside your drain pipes. If they particularly enjoy what they’ve found in the pipes at your place, they can lay up to 200-300 eggs in one hit and they’re all hatched after just a handful of days. By then, you’ve got a real problem on your hands.
So what exactly have you done to attract the sort of drain flies Australia has been grappling with for decades? Firstly, have you been on holiday? If those drains have had a bit of time to stagnate, drain flies love feasting on the material that’s had a little time to stew. With a bit of luck, resuming your normal household activities should give the drain flies a clear sign that it’s time to clear off.
But if you haven’t been away, ask yourself if any of these scenarios apply:
- Is the drain in question used infrequently? If so, run the taps a bit more often, and try pouring a kettle or two of boiling water down there, too.
- Could it be the air conditioner? Remember, drain flies love anything moist and dank, and an infestation can indicate a problem with the air conditioner such as a broken pipe.
- Is the toilet the culprit? If you’re spotting drain flies around your toilet, it’s possible they’re getting in that way via a faulty seal.
- Do you deal with compost? Yes, drain flies love your dank, moist pipes, but they also absolutely love moist compost. If you’re into composting, see if your stash is attracting this critter.
- Any stagnant water anywhere? Drains and pipes are not the only things involving stagnant water. Have a look around your property to see whether any standing water is causing the issue.
How to get rid of drain flies – the DIY way
If, after checking all of that, you’re still grappling with a drain fly headache, here are some advice from your trusted Gold Coast and Tweed Heads drainage plumbers on how to knock them on the head:
1. Clean the pipes
Now it’s time to get proactive. The first step on how to get rid of drain flies is to unblock your sink drains thoroughly and regularly. Determine the problem drain, and do your best to get rid of that tasty organic material. An easy way is to pour a kettle of boiling water down there and finish off with some effort with a wire brush or the all-powerful drain snake. Then, wash down your effort with another kettle full.
2. Try vinegar
It’s delicious with your fish n chips, but also useful for sending drain flies to drain fly heaven. Simply put some in a glass, cover the top with see-through wrap, poke some tiny holes in there, and sit back as you trap your prey.
3. Use baking soda
Another great brew for drain flies is baking soda combined with that trusty vinegar. Add the baking soda to the drain, follow up with a generous helping of vinegar, and listen to the fizzy result. What’s happening is a decent cleanse for your pipes and Sayonara to the drain flies and their eggs.
Call the Drain Masters for a real drain fly solution
Will your drain fly problem simply not budge? You may not need a pest exterminator – you may need a drain master! Here at Drain Masters Plumbing, we’ve been dealing with the sort of drain issues that attract problems like drain flies for so many years that it’s just second nature to us now. Whether it’s a blocked stormwater drain, something broken, installation issues, a sewer drainage problem or something else entirely, every drain is healthy once Drain Masters Plumbing has paid you a visit.
Get in touch with the friendly team today. We cover Varsity Lakes, Upper Coomera, Surfers Paradise, Coombabah on the Gold Coast, Banora Point, Cabarita Beach, Kingscliff in Northern NSW and beyond!
