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Getting rid of fungus gnat infestations

Fungus gnats are unwelcome guest in any home. If you've discovered fungus gnats in your house it is important to take quick action to stop the infestation before it grows. 

One of the most common fly species found in homes, fungus gnats enter residential properties when fungi sprout on access moisture in or around a residence. If you've ever wondered why there are so many flies in my apartment? It could be a sign of an underlying moisture issue attracting pests like fungus gnats.

In addition to scaring away house guests and annoying homeowners, fungus gnats can also spread diseases like E. coli and salmonella. 

Is your property infested with fungus gnats? Call Ehrlich at 800-837-5520 or contact us online to set up a free inspection with a licensed fly control Technician.

1. Fungus gnat identification

Without specialized training, it is difficult to identify a fungus gnat from other types of small flies. 

However, adult fungus gnats have long, slender bodies and that are mosquito-like in appearance, but without the long proboscis. Many fungus gnat species will have smoke-colored wings that feature a Y-shaped vein. The average adult fungus gnat grows to a length of 1/8 inch. 

Fungus gnat larvae are white with little black heads. 

If you are unsure if the flies infesting your home are fungus gnats, contact Ehrlich online and schedule a free inspection with a licensed pest control Technician.

2. Find and eliminate the breeding site

You need to remove the source of the problem to effectively get rid of fungus gnats in your house.

Fungus gnats infest homes when there is enough moisture in the property for fungi to grow. Water-related issues from leaky pipes in your basement to a malfunctioning appliance. 

However, the most common cause of fungus gnat infestations is over-watered indoor plants. Plant pots filled with access water provide ideal breeding conditions for fungus gnats. 

Likewise, over-watered lawns and landscaping are also commonly a cause of fungus gnat issues on the exteriors of homes. Other potential breeding sites can include flat roofs that do not drain properly, broken sinks and water-damaged walls. 

Dirty garbage cans or garbage cans that fill with water can also lead to fungus gnat problems as well issues with other fly species. 

Once you have identified the breeding site, eliminate the issue that is causing the access moisture to form.

3. Fungus gnat treatment

While removing the breeding site will go a long way in getting rid of fungus gnats, additional treatment methods may be required to eliminate the infestations. Below are some of the treatment options available to homeowners. 

Spot Applications - In some cases, it be necessary for a treatment to be applied to remove fungus gnats. It highly recommended that homeowners hire a pest control professional to apply fungus gnat treatments to ensure the flies are eliminated effectively and safely. It is important to remember that applications should not be applied to any areas where food is prepared or cooked

Fly Baits - Fly baits are also commonly used to get rid of fungus gnats. Effective with various species of small flies, baits coated in sugar attract and kill the flies in the area. Again, fly baits should only be applied by a pest control professional. Depending on the product that is used, fly baits can be effective for multiple months. 

Fly Light Traps - Insect light traps are an effective tool against fungus gnats. While these devices are typically reserved for commercial customers, they are very proficient at protecting properties from flying insects. 

DIY Methods - While they are many do-it-yourself methods on the market that claim to get rid of fungus gnats, results using these products can be varied. For homeowners searching for ways to eliminate flying insects, researching tips like how to get rid of house flies may provide additional insights that can help.

Speak to a live Ehrlich expert at 800-837-5520 to have all your fungus gnat questions answered or to schedule an inspection with a Technician in your local area.

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There are a few things you can do to keep flies away.