How to Kill Gnats in a Floor Drain
Gnats, also called drain flies or moth flies, are an annoying house guest. They don't bite or present any harm to humans, but that still doesn't mean you want the tiny dark-winged insects buzzing around your face. They breed in moist organic matter commonly found in drains, as well as in standing water such as that found in infrequently used toilets and drip pans. The best method for killing these small insects and keeping them away involves thorough and regular drain cleaning. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Screwdriver
- Rubber gloves
- Pipe snake
- Trash bag
- Pipe brush
- Drain cleaner
- Hot water
- Plunger
- Pot
- Salt
- Baking soda
- Vinegar
Instructions
-
Initial Cleaning
-
1
Remove the drain cover with a screwdriver if necessary. Put on rubber gloves to protect your hands.
-
2
Use a pipe snake to clean any debris out of the drain. Deposit the debris in a trash bag and dispose of the bag outside.
-
-
3
Clean the pipe with a pipe brush to remove any residue.
-
4
Pour drain cleaner down the drain, following the manufacturer's directions carefully.
-
5
Rinse the drain with hot water from the tap.
-
6
Place the plunger over the drain with the water still running. Plunge the drain for two to five minutes.
-
7
Boil a pot of water on the stove. Pour the boiling water down the drain to flush any remaining particles.
Once a Month
-
8
Pour one-half cup of table salt into your drain.
-
9
Pour one-half cup baking soda into the drain.
-
10
Pour 1 cup of distilled vinegar down the drain onto the salt and baking soda.
-
11
Let the mixture sit in your drain overnight then rinse it with hot tap water.
-
1
