How to get rid of these invasive pests?

Drain flies, also called psycho flies, are tiny flying insects that proliferate in pipes and damp areas in homes. Their presence, even in small numbers, can quickly become invasive. Here is everything you need to know about these pests and how to get rid of them effectively.

What is a drain fly?

Drain flies belong to the family of psychodidae. Small in size, between 1 and 5mm, their body is covered with fine gray hair giving them a downy appearance. Their wings are disproportionate to their body.

They lay their eggs by the hundreds in damp corners and ducts in which decomposing organic matter stagnates. In just 2 daysthe larvae hatch and feed on this waste to carry out their metamorphosis. In 10 to 15 daysthey reach the adult stage and fly away in search of new egg-laying sites.

Although harmless, they quickly become invasive. It is therefore essential to act quickly to get rid of them.

Where do they live and what do they eat?

THE drain flies like dark, damp places such as siphons, blocked pipes or even sewer manholes. Their favorite food sources are sewage and food debris that accumulate in these confined areas.

Once adults, they move around at night, attracted by light, and rest during the day in dark corners.

How to spot their presence?

The telltale signs of a drain fly infestation are unfortunately quite obvious and unpleasant. Here are the main clues that should alert you:

• Abnormal accumulation around drains and siphons.
• Foul smells coming from the ducts.
• Unusual noises and vibrations in the pipes.
• Occasional presence of flying adults in the bathroom or kitchen.

6 Tips to Easily Get Rid of Drain Flies

Once you have identified the presence of drain flies, it is time to take the appropriate measures to get rid of them quickly and permanently. Here are 5 simple but effective tips to get rid of these pests.

1. Dry and clean stagnant water spots

It is essential to start with eliminate any source of humidity conducive to the laying and development of drain fly larvae. Immediately repair any water leak, no matter how small.

Then clean all siphons, drains and drain pipes thoroughly with a degreasing product. Feel free to use a brush to scrub and remove any stuck-on residue. Then rinse thoroughly with clean water.

2. Use specific products

Many commercial products can effectively combat drain flies. Favor draining organic formulas, unblockers or based on enzymes to deeply clean pipes. Pour the recommended amount, leave on for at least 30 minutesthen rinse with warm water. Repeat once a week for 1 month.

3. Set traps

Placing glue, vegetable oil or white vinegar near water points and areas where flies pass through allows you to trap adult insects. They will stick to it and will no longer be able to lay larvae. Change traps every 2-3 days because they fill up quickly. This method is very effective in capturing flies before they swarm.

4. Spray an insecticide

If there are already a lot of flies, spray an insecticide inside the pipes and around the infested areas. Leave to act for a few minutes then ventilate well before using the water points again. Choose if possible an organic product and repeat the operation once a week for 1 month.

5. Pour boiling water

This tip comes straight from tricks of Tonton Marcel. He advises pouring boiling water directly into drains and pipes to instantly kill fly larvae found there. Boil a large pot of water, then gently pour it into the various affected drains. This simple and ecological method is very effective.

6. Call a professional

If the problem persists after 2 weeks despite applying these tips, it is recommended to contact a company specializing in pest eradication. Their pipe treatment products and equipment will solve the problem permanently.

In most cases, these tips allow you to quickly get rid of a drain fly infestation. Act quickly at the first signs to prevent these pests from proliferating!