Drain Flies

What are drain flies?

Drain flies are a tiny species of fly that can infest commercial properties in large numbers. Drain flies are also known as sink flies or sewer gnats. Drain flies are sometimes mistaken for moths, due to their fuzzy bodies and wings. They are tan to light brown in color. Drain flies in their larval stage are small with light brown bodies, and black striping on their backs. When at rest, drain flies fold their wings over their bodies in a distinct roof-like manner.

Are drain flies dangerous?

Drain flies are considered to be nuisance pests in Oklahoma and surrounding areas. Unlike many other species of flies, drain flies pose no significant health risks to people. However, it is important to understand that these nuisance flies can create large populations that can become frustrating and difficult to deal with. They also may contaminate food sources with bacteria that is found on their legs and bodies. A drain fly infestation could cause damage to the reputation of your business. Having large populations of drain flies inside your commercial facility will not build confidence in your customers about your facility's sanitation levels.

Why do I have a drain fly problem?

Drain flies are living on your property or inside your commercial facility because it is providing them with a suitable place to feed and breed. Drain flies mate and lay eggs in areas with excess moisture or with standing water. Their absolute favorite breeding spot is in the slimy debris that builds up inside drains. Drain flies find their way inside through gaps in your building's foundation, drains, and spaces in or around windows.

Where will I find drain flies?

Outside 
Outside, drain flies are attracted to properties that provide places to lay their eggs. Properties with compost piles, piles of wet organic debris (leaves & grass), or decaying trees and plant life attract drain flies. 

Inside 
Inside, drain flies lay their eggs inside debris that builds up inside drains. Drain fly populations can be found in damp basements or crawl spaces, bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms. They are also found congregating around sewer lines.

How do I get rid of drain flies?

The best way to prevent and eliminate drain flies from your Kansas business is to partner with a pest control professional. At Pinnacle Solutions, we specialize in providing customer-focused, commercial pest control services to protect a wide variety of facilities and industries from drain flies. To learn more about the fly control services we offer, contact us! 
  
Our team of experienced professionals utilizes advanced treatments and eco-friendly products to accurately identify the fly species you're dealing with, and provide consistent treatment to solve your property’s fly problem for good. Learn more about our fly control services and how they can help protect your Topeka, Kansas City, or Wichita area commercial property from fly invasions and the problems they cause. Reach out to us at Pinnacle Solutions for more information!

How can I prevent drain flies in the future?

Preventing problems with drain flies can be a difficult task. There are several things you can do in and around your commercial facility to keep them from damaging your business and its reputation:

• Remove breeding sites by physically cleaning out debris from drains in your commercial facility.
• Reduce humidity levels by using dehumidifiers.
• Make sure crawl spaces in your facility are properly ventilated.
• Remove piles of wet or moist organic debris, decaying logs, and fallen trees from your property.
• Caulk gaps found around exterior windows and doors.