How to Get Rid of Sewer Flies in RV Toilet? Follow the Steps
Sewer flies, also known as drain flies or moth flies, are tiny insects that are attracted to decaying organic matter and moisture. They are often found in drains, sewers, and other areas where there is sewage. Sewer flies can also be found in RV toilets, especially if the black tank is not emptied regularly.
To get rid of these stubborn irritating flies, you can use several things such as cleaning the toilet and black tank, this one is the most effective way to get rid of the flies.
Sewer flies are not only annoying, but they can also carry diseases. If you have sewer flies in your RV toilet, it is important to get rid of them as soon as possible.
Clean the Toilet and Black Tank
To clean the toilet, follow these steps:
- Put on gloves and a mask to protect yourself from germs and chemicals.
- Flush the toilet to empty the bowl.
- Spray the entire toilet bowl with a disinfectant cleaner.
- Let the cleaner sit for at least 10 minutes to kill germs.
- Use a toilet brush to scrub all surfaces of the toilet bowl, including the rim and under the seat.
- Flush the toilet to rinse away the cleaner and debris.
- Wipe down the outside of the toilet with a clean cloth.
To clean the black tank, follow these steps:
- Fill the black tank with fresh water.
- Add a black tank cleaner to the tank according to the product label directions.
- Close the black tank valve and drive the RV for at least 30 minutes. This will help to agitate the cleaning solution and loosen any debris.
- Empty the black tank at a designated dump station.
- Rinse the black tank with fresh water until the water runs clear.
Cleaning the toilet and black tank regularly will help to remove any food sources for sewer flies and prevent them from coming back.
Use a Bleach Solution
Bleach is a powerful disinfectant that will kill sewer flies and their larvae. To use bleach to get rid of sewer flies, pour a cup of bleach down the toilet and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. Then, flush the toilet and rinse the bowl thoroughly. You can also pour a cup of bleach into the black tank and let it sit overnight. Then, drain the black tank and rinse it thoroughly with water.
Use an Enzyme Drain Cleaner
Enzyme drain cleaners contain enzymes that break down organic matter. This can help to get rid of sewer flies and their larvae. To use an enzyme, drain cleaner, pour it down the toilet, and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. Then, flush the toilet and rinse the bowl thoroughly. You can also pour an enzyme drain cleaner into the black tank and let it sit overnight. Then, drain the black tank and rinse it thoroughly with water.
Use a Fly Trap
Fly traps can be used to attract and kill sewer flies. There are a number of different types of fly traps available, but some of the most common include sticky traps, electronic traps, and liquid traps. To use a fly trap, place it near the toilet or black tank. The sewer flies will be attracted to the trap and become trapped.
How the Sewer Flies Get Invitation in Your RV Toilet?
Understanding how these unwanted guests end up in your RV toilet is the first step in preventing their return. Sewer flies are drawn to moist, organic matter, and your RV’s plumbing provides an enticing environment for them. Here’s how they sneak in:
Damp Drains
Sewer flies lay their eggs in the gunk that accumulates in drains and pipes. The moisture in your RV’s plumbing system is like a neon sign inviting them to start a family. Once they’ve made themselves at home, it’s party time, and they can quickly infest your toilet.
Stagnant Water
If your RV sits unused for a while, water in the pipes can become stagnant. This stagnant water becomes a breeding ground for sewer flies. The lack of flow allows these pesky insects to multiply, and soon enough, you’ll have a full-blown infestation on your hands.
Leftover Food Residue
Whether it’s food particles in your sink or the organic residue in your RV’s plumbing, sewer flies are drawn to these food sources. Even the smallest bits of food can attract them, giving them a reason to stay.
How to Prevent Reborn of Sewer Flies in Your RV Toilet?
Now that you’ve banished the sewer flies, you don’t want to roll out the welcome mat for their return. Let’s explore some proactive steps to prevent these uninvited guests from crashing your RV party again:
Regular Cleaning
Maintain a routine of cleaning and disinfecting your RV toilet and drains. This will not only keep sewer flies at bay but also ensure a more hygienic and pleasant environment in your mobile home.
Fix Leaks and Drips
Address any plumbing issues promptly. Leaks and drips create the damp environment sewer flies love. By fixing these issues, you’re eliminating a significant attraction for these pests.
Use Drain Screens
Install drain screens in your RV’s sinks and shower to prevent food particles and debris from entering the pipes. This simple measure can go a long way in deterring sewer flies.
Maintain Regular Use
Don’t let your RV sit idle for too long. Regular use of the plumbing system helps keep the water flowing and prevents stagnation, making your RV less appealing to sewer flies.
Biological Treatments
Consider using biological drain treatments regularly. These products introduce beneficial bacteria that break down organic matter, reducing the chances of infestations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are sewer flies?
Sewer flies are tiny insects that are attracted to decaying organic matter and moisture. They are often found in drains, sewers, and other areas where there is sewage. Sewer flies can also be found in RV toilets, especially if the black tank is not emptied regularly.
Why do I have sewer flies in my RV toilet?
A: Sewer flies are attracted to the decaying organic matter in the black tank. If the black tank is not emptied regularly, sewer flies can lay eggs in the tank. The eggs will hatch into larvae, which will then feed on the decaying organic matter. The larvae will eventually mature into adult sewer flies.
