Fruit flies and drain flies are a nuisance that are difficult to get rid of. Both fly species have a very fast reproduction rate that causes them to severely infest your kitchen and drains. There are several ways to get rid of them, including chemicals. However, always be sure to only use natural solutions to prevent corroding your plumbing system. You may have to work hard to get these little pests out of your home.
In need of professional plumber? Contact Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling and Heating for expert plumbing services. Call us at (469) 240-5618 or contact us online.
Continue reading to learn more about drain and fruit flies and how to get rid of them.
What Are Drain Flies and Fruit Flies?
Drain flies are tiny bugs about the size of an average fruit fly. These flies are typically confused for moths due to their similar wings. However, these flies cannot fly very far. Instead of flying, you’ll notice the flies jumping from one area to the other.
Compared to the drain fly, fruit flies are identified through their unique physical characteristics. The fruit fly is brown, compared to the gray or black color of drain flies. These also do not have a fuzzy body like the drain fly.
Both types of flies have short life cycles and quick reproduction rates. This is why it is so hard to get rid of them. If you do not get ahead of this issue the flies will quickly spread.
Where Do Fruit Flies and Drain Flies Come From?
The smell of ripe or rotting fruits and vegetables attract fruit flies. The fruit might be in the trash can, on the counter or in the drains. Fruit flies will find it and quickly reproduce. Drain flies are known to like still water that is filled with bacteria and sewage. These pests usually come from:
- Septic tanks
- Shower drains
- Kitchen sinks
- Sewers
- Wet mop buckets
- Storm drains
- Water around garbage cans
- Piles of compost
It is important to keep these places clean to prevent drain flies and fruit flies from becoming a member in your household. Flush your pipes frequently or have an expert plumber perform plumbing maintenance.
Are Drain Flies and Fruit Flies Harmful?
Luckily, drain flies and fruit flies are not harmful to humans. These flies do not transmit any disease. The problem with fruit flies and drain flies is that they are often considered unsanitary and frustrating to deal with. Even if they don’t seem to bother you, do your best to get rid of them as quickly as possible. This will help to prevent a severe infestation throughout your home and in your plumbing system.
Ways to Check for Drain and Fruit Flies
If you are seeing little flies in and around your home it is important to check whether you have an infestation in your pipes. Here are some ways to check if your have flies reproducing in your plumbing system:
- Use duct tape to seal off the drain. After a full day check the tape to see if any flies are stuck to the surface of the tape. The number of flies on the tape will indicate how bad the infestation may be.
- Remove any drain covers and check for eggs in the slime that may build up in the opening. If there are no eggs, the infestation may be deeper in your plumbing system.
For some infestations a professional plumber are called to assess the plumbing situation. These plumbers will have the right tools to help manage your fly problem.
How to Get Rid of Fruit Flies
There are many ways to get rid of fruit and drain flies, but this does depend on the severity of the infestation. Here are some chemical free ways to get rid of fruit and drain flies:
- Flushing the drains may remove the eggs and flies.
- Pour boiling water down the drain a few times a day for about a week. This should flush out all the eggs and any other sewage that could cause the flies to return.
- Combine baking soda, salt and vinegar in a one to one ratio. Pour this mixture into the drains and let it sit overnight. Pour boiling water to flush the mixture.
- Create a sweet mixture to lure the drain and fruit flies out. A mixture of soap, water, sugar and apple cider vinegar will lure them out and the thickness will trap the flies.
- Cover a bowl of apple cider vinegar with plastic wrap to trap the flies.
Try these natural solutions first before turning to chemical cleaners to avoid any corrosion. If necessary, use a drain cleaner to thoroughly clear the drains. If all else fails, call a plumber.
Preventing Drain and Fruit Flies
To prevent drain and fruit flies make sure to remove any standing water and rotting fruit. Do not leave any mops in buckets or sinks and tubs left undrained. Flush your drains on a regular basis with boiling water.
In some cases, there are drains that are not in use and need to be closed with a stopper to prevent drain flies from entering and reproducing. If you are worried about these flies entering your home, give a plumber or pest control technician a call for more advice. For regular plumbing maintenance and drain and sewer services, contact your local plumber.
Plumbers Near Me
Having a great plumber on hand for any kind of plumbing issue is a lifesaving tip. Search “plumbers near me” for a professional plumbing company that can service your needs.
Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling and Heating is dedicated to helping you with the small and big issues. Are you having a fruit and drain fly problem? We have your back. You don’t have to stress about the small things when you have Dial One Johnson on speed dial.
Looking for a plumber in Cedar Hill, TX? Contact Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling and Heating for 24/7 service and quality service technicians. Contact us online or give us a call at (469) 240-5618 today.