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.

 

sump pump diagram

 

 

 

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. 

 

opening in sump pump cover

 

 

 

Large openings create easy access for mosquitoes
to access water inside sump pumps. Cover holes
with fine mesh screen to keep mosquitoes out.

 

 

mosquito larvae in water

 

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!

man cleaning leaves out of a gutter

 

 

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. 

 

open french drain cover

 

 

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.

 

a reflection on water in a clogged drain

 

 

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.

crack in septic access

 

 

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. 

 

soggy ground

 

 

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.

 

vent pipe examples

 

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.

 


Questions?

  (858) 694-2888

  vector@sdcounty.ca.gov