How much does it cost to get rid of drain flies?

Author: Dr. Maryam Lakin  |  Last update: Monday, November 10, 2025

The average cost for drain fly pest control services is $200. However, the price can range from as low as $100 to $500 in some cases, depending on the severity of the infestation and the size of the area that needs to be treated.

How do I permanently get rid of drain flies?

Apple cider vinegar with a drop of dish soap: leave in a shallow plate or bowl (I used a tiny fish bowl from thrift store) near drains to catch those flying around. They will fly in and drown. Replace every day or every other day as needed.

Can an exterminator get rid of drain flies?

Yes, a professional exterminator can help get rid of flies. They have the expertise and tools to identify the type of flies infesting your space and can implement effective strategies to eliminate them. This may include: Inspection: Assessing the extent of the infestation and identifying breeding sites.

Do I need a plumber to get rid of drain flies?

Pest Control

The goal is to eliminate their breeding site. The most effective method for doing this is to call a plumber and have them mechanically clean the pipes of the slime and organic material that tends to collect in the pipes and drains.

Why do I suddenly have drain flies?

Drain flies thrive in stagnant and standing water. Common sources include slow or clogged drains, rarely used and unused toilets, refrigerator drain pans, and standing water created by leaking pipes. They typically enter buildings through basements, windows, and drains.

How to Get Rid of Drain Flies (4 Easy Steps)

Does pouring bleach down the drain get rid of drain flies?

The simple answer is yes but with a caveat. While bleach can kill drain flies and their larvae on contact, it's not the most effective method for long-term control. Bleach's caustic nature allows it to clean the drain pipes and kill some of the larvae.

How long does a drain fly infestation last?

Learn the Pest Biology

Knowing the life cycle helps you fight fly infestations. Life Cycle: Adult females lay 30–100 eggs in sludge around sewage and drainage areas. Eggs hatch in 32–48 hours, larval stage lasts 8–24 days, pupal stage 20–40 hours. Adults live about two weeks.

What company gets rid of drain flies?

Your local Orkin Pro is trained to help manage drain flies and similar pests. Since every building or home is different, your Orkin Pro will design a unique fly treatment program for your situation.

How to find a drain fly nest?

Where do drain flies naturally occur?
  1. sewage treatment plants and sewer drains.
  2. wet compost areas.
  3. garbage cans with standing water.
  4. clogged gutters.
  5. potted plants with wet soil and standing water.
  6. household drains.

What smell do drain flies hate?

Peppermint, eucalyptus, and tea tree oils are especially beneficial. Pour a few drops of the chosen oil with water down the toilet. The oils' pungent aroma repels drain flies and disturbs their breeding cycle. To keep the solution effective, reapply it every few days.

Can you pour boiling water down the drain?

Pouring boiling water is quite risky as it might lead to a steam burn or scalding. Another thing to keep in mind is what type of material you are pouring in into. If you have a porcelain sink, it is likely to crack due to the heat. All in all, pouring boiling water down your drain will only cause issues down the road.

What is the best drain fly killer?

Most Effective Products
  • Aerosol. Pyrid Insecticide Aerosol. 18 Ounce Can. As low as $27.99.
  • Ready-To-Use. Forid Drain Gel Cleaner. 64 Ounce. As low as $65.44.
  • Aerosol. Gentrol Aerosol Insect Growth Regulator. 16 Ounce. As low as $17.45.

What is the fastest way to get rid of drain flies?

Mix equal parts of salt and baking soda (half a cup each), and pour down the drain, then follow with a cup of vinegar. Let it sit overnight. The chemical reaction will not only kill drain flies but also remove any grime or grease that might be acting as a breeding ground.

Do drain flies always mean a leak?

Several plumbing problems create ideal conditions for drain fly breeding: Slow-draining pipes that allow organic material to accumulate. Hidden leaks creating moisture in walls or under floors.

Who can I call to get rid of drain flies?

Pest control companies can sometimes get rid of drain flies, at least temporarily, by applying targeted treatments to infested areas and neutralizing adult sink flies, eggs, and larvae.

How much does it cost to remove drain flies?

The average cost for drain fly pest control services is $200. However, the price can range from as low as $100 to $500 in some cases, depending on the severity of the infestation and the size of the area that needs to be treated.

Should I call a plumber for drain flies?

We also need to mention that drain flies may point toward bigger problems in your sewer line. Calling a plumber to look into the drainage system can help catch trouble like a clogged or broken sewer line or blocked drain vents.

What is the main cause of drain flies?

Drain flies are most often the result of a clog in a drain or sewer line, it doesn't matter if it's buildup, a soft clog or a hard clog – it just needs to limit the flow of wastewater, causing it to become stagnant and a breeding ground for bacteria.

Can bleach get rid of drain flies?

A cup of household bleach is generally more than sufficient to kill most drain flies, and all you need to do is pour it down the affected drain. The chemical is strong enough to kill the larvae, and the rest of the adult flies should die off within a few hours to a day or so.

Will Drano stop drain flies?

Conclusion: While Drano is effective at removing organic blockages, it does not solely eradicate drain flies or their larvae from your plumbing system. To combat these pests effectively, a combination of regular cleaning, prevention tactics, and the use of safe alternatives is recommended.

Can you get sick from drain flies?

Although their breeding behaviour makes them potential carriers of disease causing pathogens, drain flies are not known to transmit such pathogens to humans. Large infestations of drain flies are unsightly and often prove to be difficult to eradicate without professional assistance.

Does pine sol get rid of flies?

Yes, using Pine-Sol to keep flies away is safe. According to the Pine-Sol product page, it is biodegradable and safe for use around pets. However, Thaeler suggests waiting until treated areas have dried before letting children or pets near to be safe.

What scent gets rid of drain flies?

Furthermore, there are essential oils that have insect-repellent properties, which can help deter drain flies, including peppermint, eucalyptus, and lavender oils. To use these oils as a deterrent, just dilute a few drops in water and use a spray bottle to wash down the areas that are infested.

Does boiling water get rid of drain flies?

Combing, boiling water, vinegar and baking soda will kill drain flies, but will also help remove all the flies breeding ground which includes hair, grime and grease. It will create a chemical reaction and an clear the blockages caused by organic matter in the drainpipe.

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