Warning! Beware of scammers and fraud. There are companies illegally using our name! Read more about their methods here.

Combatting Drain Flies - Google rating 5.0 out of 5
Rating 5 out of 5

Flies? We provide a swift solution.

Use of own staff
3-month guarantee
Fixed rate, no hourly rate

Call us at 085 303 9999

Schedule an appointment now

Fixed price
No call-out fees
3-month warranty

RBNL review

Combatting Drain Flies

Drain flies, also known as moth flies or filter flies, are small insects often found in and around homes. These tiny but persistent insects can be a major nuisance in both households and businesses. They often indicate underlying issues with your drainage or sewage system. Read on to discover how you can get rid of drain flies for good!

What are Drain Flies?

A drain fly is a type of mosquito. It is also known by other names, such as moth fly or filter fly. They belong to the Psychodidae family and are known for their hairy wings and moth-like appearance. Adult flies are typically 1.5 to 5 millimeters in size and have a grey or light brown color. They are often seen in damp and dark environments, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.

What Attracts Drain Flies?

Drain flies are primarily attracted to damp and decaying organic materials. They thrive in wet and contaminated environments where organic waste accumulates. This can include:

Sewer Pipes and Drains

The most common breeding grounds for drain flies are sewer pipes and drains that are clogged or partially clogged. Additionally, a broken sewer pipe, which causes undetected leaks, can also provide an ideal environment for these flies to develop.

Septic Systems

In poorly maintained septic systems, drain flies can multiply rapidly.

Clogged Sinks

Food scraps and other organic material in clogged sinks can attract drain flies.

Damp Basements and Crawl Spaces

Leaks or high humidity levels in basements and crawl spaces provide an ideal environment for drain flies to breed.

Leaks or high humidity levels in basements and crawl spaces provide an ideal environment for drain flies to breed.

Do you recognize this? Then you might have drain flies in your home.

To determine if you have a drain fly problem, there are several signs to look out for. Firstly, you'll often see small, moth-like flies around drains, sinks, showers, and bathtubs. Additionally, a strong, unpleasant odor coming from drains and sewers can indicate the presence of organic material that attracts drain flies. You might also find small larvae or pupae near damp areas, such as under sinks or in shower drains. If you regularly experience slow-draining water, this could point to a partial blockage where drain flies lay their eggs. By recognizing these signs early, you can quickly take action to combat a potential infestation.

Combatting Drain Flies

Cost of Combatting Drain Flies

When the cause of drain flies is known, such as a break or a blockage, we can proceed directly with repairs. If the source is unclear, we use our smoke detection service. For a fixed price, we blow non-toxic smoke through your sewage system to identify all possible cracks and openings where flies might be coming from. This thorough inspection ensures that no problem is overlooked, making your sewage system fully functional again.

Our rates are fixed and transparent. This means there are no additional costs, no matter how long the job takes. You won't face any unexpected surprises.

Local blockages

Toilet, shower, sink, drain, basin, washing machine

Unclogging the main line

Unclogging using high pressure + camera inspection

Sewer inspection with camera

Checking for problems such as leaks or cracks

Smoke detection for sewer system

Tracing the cause of sewer odor

Smoke detection & camera inspection

Mapping the piping system using smoke detection and camera inspection

Combatting Drain Flies

Professional and thorough approach to the sewer fly problem

€165 incl. VAT

€296 incl. VAT

€180 incl. VAT

€180 incl. VAT

€220 incl. VAT

Price on request

Fixed rate, no hourly fee

3 months warranty

No call-out charges

Fixed rate, no hourly fee

3 months warranty

No call-out charges

For unusual working hours, surcharges apply. See here the working hours and the rates and surcharges that apply to the mentioned working hours:

Surcharges

On the following days, normal rates apply:

– weekdays from 08:00 to 18:00

On the following days, a 50% surcharge applies:

– weekdays from 18:00 to 00:00

– Saturday from 08:00 to 18:00

On the following days, a 100% surcharge applies:

– all days from 00:00 to 08:00

– Saturday from 18:00 to 00:00

– Sundays and public holidays

Our customers rate us an average of 5/5

Read the most recent customer reviews below.

How to Identify Drain Flies?

Recognizing drain flies is important for taking quick action. Here are some characteristics of these insects:

  • Appearance
    Drain flies are small, usually between 1.5 and 5 millimeters in size. They have a hairy, moth-like appearance with wings covered in scales. Their wings are broad and heart-shaped when at rest. The wings are covered with tiny hairs, giving them a fuzzy look.

  • Movement
    Drain flies move slowly and clumsily. They fly short distances and often rest on walls or ceilings near damp areas.

  • Location
    They are often found near drains, sinks, showers, and other damp places where organic material is present.
Drain Flies in Your Home

Want to get rid of drain flies? Use these tips.

Cleaning and Disinfecting

The first step in combating drain flies is thorough cleaning. Ensure that all potential breeding grounds are cleaned and disinfected:

 

Use a drain cleaner to remove grease, dirt, and organic material from the drains. This will eliminate the larvae's breeding grounds. Next, improve ventilation in damp areas like bathrooms and basements to reduce humidity. Regularly clean under appliances such as refrigerators and dishwashers where moisture can accumulate.

Using Traps

Various types of traps can help reduce adult drain flies. Place sticky traps near damp areas and drains to catch the adult flies. You can also fill a bowl with a mixture of water, vinegar, and a few drops of dish soap. This will attract and drown the flies.

Smoke Detection

Smoke detection is an effective method for quickly and accurately identifying problems in the sewage system. Smoke detection in the sewer works by using special equipment that injects non-toxic smoke into the entire sewage system. The smoke spreads throughout the sewer network. Any leaks, holes, or poorly connected joints in the system become visible as the smoke escapes from those points. Rioolbeheer Nederland's technicians follow the smoke and inspect the areas where it emerges. In most cases, the technicians can resolve the issue immediately. After the inspection, a report is prepared documenting the findings. This report helps in planning any necessary repairs and improving the sewage system.

Chemical Pesticides

In some cases, chemical pesticides may be necessary to combat a severe infestation. Use insecticides specifically designed to kill drain flies. Follow the label instructions carefully to maximize effectiveness and ensure safety. There are also specific drain cleaners available that not only clean drains but also kill insects hiding within them.

Need help combating drain flies? RBNL is here for you. You can count on our fast and friendly service, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our certified professionals will not leave until your sewage problem is completely resolved. Make an appointment by phone or via our website and let us take care of your problem worry-free.

Drain flies? No plumbing job is too big or too small. Contact us today!

Prevent Future Drain Fly Problems

Prevent future drain fly problems by taking some preventive measures after treatment. Ensure regular maintenance by keeping drains and sewers clean with drain cleaners. Additionally, control the humidity in your home by applying good ventilation and moisture control, making living conditions unfavorable for drain flies. Finally, repair leaky faucets, pipes, and other water sources to reduce damp environments and prevent future infestations.

RBNL carefree

Call in a Specialist for Drain Fly Control

Your home or work comfort is our priority!

While it is possible to take steps yourself to combat drain flies, calling in a specialist can often be the most effective and lasting solution. RBNL is your reliable partner for professional drain fly control. Our certified specialists have the knowledge and experience to quickly identify and eliminate the source of the infestation. Using advanced techniques and environmentally friendly methods, we ensure that your home is free from these annoying insects again.

Call us today or make an appointment online to solve your drain fly problem for good. We guarantee a professional and thorough approach, so you can enjoy a clean and hygienic home with peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Attracts Drain Flies?

Drain flies are attracted to damp environments and organic matter, such as rotting food and waste, found in drains and sewers.

Are drain flies harmful?

While drain flies themselves are not harmful to humans, they can transmit diseases and cause allergic reactions if present in large numbers.

What should I do if I see drain flies in my home?

If you see drain flies, thoroughly clean all drains and check for blockages. Using drain cleaners to remove organic material can also help.

Can drain flies bite?

No, drain flies do not bite. They are more of a nuisance than a direct danger.

When should I call a professional for pest control?

If you are still bothered by drain flies despite cleaning and preventive measures, it is advisable to call a professional like RBNL for a thorough and effective solution.

How long do drain flies live?

The life cycle of a drain fly, from egg to adult insect, lasts approximately 1 to 3 weeks. Adult drain flies typically live for a few days to a week.

How do I prevent an infestation?

To prevent an infestation, it's important to keep drains and sewers clean, repair leaks, and minimize damp environments through good ventilation.

How often should I clean my drains to prevent drain flies?

It is recommended to thoroughly clean your drains at least once a month to prevent the buildup of organic material that attracts drain flies.

Why do the drain flies keep coming back?

Drain flies keep returning if there are still damp and organically rich environments where they can feed and reproduce. Ensure thorough cleaning and maintenance to prevent recurrence.