Prevent Mosquitoes In Drainage Systems
Sump Pumps
Sump pumps are designed to pump water from underneath the house, but can also hold a small amount of water that is enough for mosquitoes to breed.
When water reaches a certain level in the sump
pump basin, the
float rises, switching on the pump. Water that is below the threshold
level will not trigger the pump, even this small amount of water will
sit in the basin and can attract mosquitoes.
Large openings create easy access for mosquitoes
to access
water inside sump pumps. Cover holes
with fine mesh screen to
keep mosquitoes out.
Prevent larvae from developing inside the basin, and control larvae that have already hatched by treating with a bacterial larvicide containing Bti.
Drains and Gutters
Systems designed to drain water away from our homes can often hold
water if they are clogged, damaged, or not set up optimally. Even 1/4”
of water at the bottom of a drain or pipe can become a source of
mosquito breeding!
Clean out leaves and other debris in gutters
regularly. Flush
the pipes after cleaning. Downspout extenders can also retain water
—remove them or tip out any remaining water after it rains.
Lawn drains, French drains (a very common sources of mosquito breeding), and other drains and pipes can retain water. You can use a fine mesh screen under the drain cover to prevent mosquitoes from entering. Just makes sure to check regularly and clear debris. You can also flush drains regularly and treat standing water with a bacterial larvicide according to the label.
Helpful tip! Use a flashlight to check drains—a reflection means there is pooled water. Use the advice above to prevent mosquito breeding.
Septic Systems
Inspect septic tanks regularly to look for missing covers, cracks,
gaps in blocks, or missing screens and perform any necessary
repairs.
Cleanout access above the septic tank should be sealed and watertight. Makeshift lids, cracked PVC caps or broken/cracked concrete lids should be replaced and edges should be sealed tightly. Mosquitoes can slip through even small cracks.
Any saturated/wet ground because of drain field failure will act as a mosquito breeding ground and should be treated immediately with a bacterial larvicide containing Bti.
Ventilation pipes should be securely covered with screening.
Observation pipes should be capped
with a removable cap. Form
the screen into a cone
if the vent pipe is below or near a tree.
Download and share our guides:
Guide
to Drains (pdf)
Guide
to Sump Pumps (pdf)
Guide
to Septic Systems (pdf)
Return to the Prevention Checklist