Ecopiakos Ecological Solutions - VAT 05534520878
Drain Flies
Drain flies, Psychodinae, Filter flies in English, or more commonly known as moth flies, are part of the diptera family and are used to laying eggs in very humid places such as, precisely, water drains. The drain fly is very small, dark brown or black in color, and can be distinguished from others by small veins on its wings. Their bodies are covered with hairs and, if squashed, they leave a powdery stain. This species of fly is often confused with the fruit fly, the manure fly, or phorid flies.
Habits and nutrition
Drain flies nest in drains, in sewers, septic tanks, and in soil where there is decomposing organic material. Hair in drains is one of the causes of a Psychodinae infestation. The larvae that hatch from the eggs survive both at low and high temperatures, which is why they are difficult to eliminate. The only positive note is that, by feeding on the organic material inside the drains, the larvae often prevent blockages within them.
Why they are harmful to humans
Drain flies often infest household bathrooms. They do not bite and are harmless, but they can transmit bacteria in the places where they have nested. In case of a suspected infestation, it is advisable to check the shower first: this is where most of the time, due to high humidity, drain flies create their nests. Frequently cleaning the drains and acting as soon as adult flies are spotted is the best way to prevent an infestation or to carry out an ad hoc disinfestation.
Check for the presence of flies in the drain
If you suspect that psychodinae have invaded your drains, before going to bed, apply some tape over the drain hole of the sink or shower. In the morning, check the adhesive tape: if the flies are present, some will definitely be stuck to the sticky part. In general, it is always a good idea to clean bathroom drains to remove hair to prevent an invasion. You can use vinegar and baking soda combined with boiling water or a specific gel for cleaning pipes. The important thing is to make sure that adult flies do not find a fertile ground for nesting.
Ecopiakos Ecological Solutions - VAT 05534520878