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Drain Fly Appearance and Size Facts
Drain flies, also known as moth flies or sewer flies, are tiny insects commonly found in moist environments like drains, sewage systems, and standing water. Drain flies are not known for biting or causing harm but can be a nuisance when they infest homes. Some of the distinguishing characteristics of the drain fly include:
- Brown or black in color
- Fuzzy, moth-like body covered with fine hairs
- 1.5 to 5 millimeters in length
- Large, rounded wings
Types of Drain Flies
There are several types of drain flies, which all share similar features and preferences of environment. These types of drain flies include:
- Moth flies: These are the true drain flies and are typically found near drains, sewage systems, and damp organic matter.
- Bathroom flies: These drain flies are often found in bathroom drains and are recognized by their distinctive black and white spotted wings.
- Sink flies: These tiny drain flies are commonly found near sinks and have a unique pattern on their wings, with dark bands.
We offer fly control for drain flies in the following locations and their surrounding areas:
Behavior and Habitat of Drain Flies
Drain flies prefer a damp and organic environment, and are often found near drains, sewage systems, and other moisture-rich habitats. These flies lay their eggs in standing water or in the film that can develop on the inner surfaces of drains. Their larvae feed on the organic matter present in these locations, including decaying vegetation and trapped debris. Drain flies are primarily nocturnal and are most active during the evening. They are not known to bite or transmit diseases, but their presence can be a nuisance when they infest homes.
Signs of Infestation of Drain Flies
Signs of a drain fly infestation typically include the following:
- Musty odor: An unpleasant, musty odor can accompany a drain fly infestation, especially when their breeding sites contain decaying matter.
- Adult flies: The most obvious sign is the presence of adult drain flies, which you may notice flying around drains, sinks, or other moist areas, especially during the evening.
- Larvae or worms: Drain fly larvae may be seen wriggling in the sludge inside drains or near breeding sites like standing water.
- Visual clusters: Adult drain flies often cluster together, especially on walls and ceilings near breeding sites, making them more noticeable.
Tips for Prevention of Drain Flies
Preventing drain fly infestations primarily involves eliminating their preferred breeding grounds and maintaining good sanitation practices. A few helpful tips you can follow to prevent the presence of drain flies in your home include regularly cleaning your drains, fixing any leaks or water seepage promptly, installing drain covers or screens, wiping drains dry after use, sealing cracks and gaps around plumbing fixtures, and regularly cleaning your bathrooms and kitchen.
Getting Rid of Drain Flies
To get rid of drain flies, start by identifying breeding sites in drains, pipes, or standing water. Installing drain covers and fixing plumbing leaks are also good practices for keeping the drain flies away. Finally, you should wipe dry sinks, tubs, and showers after use to keep them from attracting drain flies and dispose of all food scraps properly. If issues persist, consider working with pest control professionals to help troubleshoot and solve the issue.
Effective Drain Fly Control Solutions
If you’re dealing with a persistent drain fly problem, turn to Hulett Environmental Services to permanently fix your pest problems and keep your home clean and pest-free! The professionals at Hulett provide effective control of drain flies in your home by addressing any underlying moisture issues, cleaning drains, and using target methods to eliminate breeding sites and prevent further infestations. Book your free initial inspection today or give us a call for assistance in getting rid of drain flies in your home.
Drain Fly Gallery
