How do I get rid of flies in my septic tank?

Flies hovering around your septic tank are a common nuisance during the warmer months. Septic tanks can provide ideal breeding grounds for flies, especially fruit flies and drain flies. Luckily, there are several effective methods to get rid of flies in and around your septic tank.

Why Do Flies Gather Around Septic Tanks?

Flies are attracted to septic tanks for a few key reasons:

• There is an abundant food source. Flies feed on fecal matter and organic waste.
• It provides ideal breeding conditions. The warm, moist environment allows flies to easily breed and multiply.
• Pumping issues can leave waste exposed. If tanks are not pumped regularly, waste can build up and become accessible to flies.
• Cracks and flaws provide entry points. Any cracks or damages to the tank give flies access inside.

Certain flies like fruit flies and drain flies are most commonly associated with septic tanks. These flies thrive in moist organic environments. Preventing and eliminating breeding grounds is key to getting rid of septic tank flies long-term.

How to Get Rid of Septic Tank Flies

Here are the most effective methods and products to eliminate flies around your septic tank:

1. Use Fly Traps

Fly traps draw flies in with bait and capture them on sticky boards or in containers. They provide localized control around your septic tank. Two types of traps work well:

• Bait traps – Use traps containing bait flies find irresistible, like decaying meat or fruit. Place several around the septic tank.
• UV light traps – Flies are drawn into these traps by ultraviolet light. The light zaps flies when they enter the trap.

2. Apply Insecticides

Insecticide sprays and dusts can kill flies on contact. Apply an insecticide labeled for fly control around the exterior of your septic tank and on surrounding soil. Reapply after heavy rains or as directed on the product label. Take care to keep insecticides away from any edible plants.

3. Use Fly Baits

Granular fly baits also draw in and kill flies. The bait contains an attractant mixed with an insecticide. Sprinkle fly bait around the septic tank and any known fly hot spots. Reapply as needed to keep control.

4. Install Fly Tape

Sticky fly tape can capture flies around your septic tank. Hang fly tape strips near vents or access points of the septic tank. Replace fly tape approximately every month or when saturated with insects.

5. Apply Bacillus thuringiensis

Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) is a microbial insecticide effective on fly larvae. It is available in liquid, granule, or powder formulations. Apply it directly into the septic tank to kill fly larvae before they hatch into adults. Completely harmless to people and pets.

6. Use Larvicide Dunks

Methoprene larvicide dunks provide extended fly control in septic tanks for up to 30 days. The active ingredient is an insect growth regulator that kills fly larvae. Place dunks directly into the septic tank according to label directions.

7. Check for Leaks and Clogs

Detecting any leaks or clogs in your septic system is important to resolve any issues flies may be attracted to. Drain backups can cause organic matter to accumulate. Schedule regular septic tank pumping and repairs as needed.

8. Take Preventative Measures

You can take some simple steps to make the septic tank less hospitable for flies:

• Seal cracks and tank access points.
• Keep vents tightly screened.
• Divert water drainage away from the tank.
• Do not allow leaks or clogs to go unrepaired.

9. Work with a Septic Service Company

Contact a septic tank pumping service for help addressing fly issues. They have specialized expertise and access to professional-strength products. They can troubleshoot fly problems and provide appropriate solutions.

When to Hire a Professional Exterminator

In some cases, fly infestations around septic systems may require professional pest control. Consider hiring an exterminator if you experience:

• Flies present year-round
• Extremely large swarms of flies
• Flies emerging from drains inside the home
• No improvement after trying DIY remedies

A licensed exterminator has the training to identify the exact species and locate breeding hot spots. They can provide chemical treatments and exclusion work not available to regular consumers.

Preventing Future Septic Tank Fly Issues

Implementing some routine septic system maintenance can help avoid fly outbreaks in the future:

• Pump septic tanks regularly every 3-5 years.
• Inspect tanks annually for any leaks or damage.
• Clean septic tank filters as needed.
• Limit sink garbage disposals to reduce solid waste.
• Avoid pouring grease or chemicals down drains.
• Do not use caustic drain cleaners.
• Divert surface runoff water away from the tank.
• Do not allow vehicles to drive or park over the tank.

By keeping your septic system well maintained, you can avoid providing breeding conditions that attract flies. Always contact a professional septic service for any required repairs or access issues.

When to Call a Plumber About Septic Tank Flies

Get a professional plumbing inspection if you notice:

• Flies emerging from drains inside the home.
• Indoor sink or toilet backups.
• Sewage odors in the house.
• Excess moisture or standing water around tank.
• Clogged or slow drains.
• Leaking water around the tank.

These types of issues indicate there may be a breach, crack, or clog in the septic system piping. Call a plumber immediately to diagnose and repair the problem.

Safe Fly Control Around Septic Tanks

Exercise caution when using insecticides or chemicals around your septic tank:

• Follow product labels and instructions carefully.
• Never exceed recommended dosages.
• Keep children and pets away from treated areas.
• Wear protective clothing as directed.
• Avoid contamination of edible plants.
• Do not treat directly into tanks with chlorinated chemicals.
• Rinse spray equipment away from the septic system.

Harsh chemicals can potentially damage septic tanks over time. Use microbiological treatments when possible. Only apply products labeled for septic systems.

Natural Fly Control Remedies

Some DIY options provide natural ways to discourage flies around your septic tank:

• Spread milky spore powder on soil to infect fly larvae.
• Spray tank vents with mint, eucalyptus, or citronella oil.
• Mix apple cider vinegar with dish soap in a jar to trap flies.
• Release fly predators like wasps or dragonflies.
• Plant flowers like lavender or mint around the tank.
• Place dryer sheets near vents to repel flies.

Try combining several natural options along with general sanitation methods. However, you may still need chemical treatments for optimal fly eradication in severe cases.

When to Call a Septic Service Company

Contact a professional septic service company if you experience:

• Recurrent fly infestations every year.
• Flies present year-round.
• Swarms containing thousands of flies.
• Tank backups or overflow issues.
• Indoor plumbing clogs or sewage odors.
• Standing water or soggy soil around the tank.
• Leaking water or cracks in the tank.

Qualified septic professionals have the expertise and equipment to properly diagnose issues. They can pump, inspect, and repair your entire system if needed. Some companies offer specialized fly control treatments not available to DIY consumers.

How Much Does Professional Fly Treatment Cost?

If you hire a pest control company for fly treatment around your septic tank, expect to pay:

• One-time service call fee of $50-$100
• Approximately $125-$250 per treatment
• $300-$600 for quarterly or seasonal contracts

Factors affecting cost include:

• Size of the property
• Severity of the infestation
• Type of products and methods used
• How often treatments are needed

Advanced fly treatments like drain treatments or microbial products will be more expensive. However, they provide the most effective and long-lasting control.

Conclusion

Flies congregating around your septic tank can be a nuisance. But rest assured there are many DIY remedies and professional services available to eradicate flies and prevent future outbreaks. Taking a multipronged approach is best. Combine sanitation methods, insecticides, baits, and biological treatments to knock out flies on contact and stop larvae from hatching. With persistence and thorough fly management, you can rid your septic tank of flies and enjoy your yard again.