Unblocking a plugged drain can be dirty work, so many homeowners choose chemical drain cleaners to wash away the gunk. Bottles of these cleaners are commonly found in cleaning aisles, but are they really safe? Dive into the world of chemical drain cleaners, discover how they actually clear blockages and learn why they’re hazardous. Then, explore some safer alternatives for clearing clogged drains without chemicals.
What are Chemical Drain Cleaners Used For?
Chemical drain cleaners are primarily used for clearing plumbing obstructions. They are attractive to homeowners because they’re practical, straightforward to use and offer successful results—at least at first. These cleaners are available in liquid, gel or powder form and break down hair, grease, food and other substances obstructing the drain. They are often promoted as an easy and convenient solution to tackle stubborn clogs and are sold at grocery stores, hardware stores and big box retailers.
How Do Drain Cleaners Work?
The specific reaction that occurs within the pipes varies depending on the type of drain cleaner being used. Here are several examples:
• Acidic drain cleaners have sulfuric, muriatic or hydrochloric acid. This reacts with organic materials to produce heat and gas, dissolving the clog. Acidic cleaners are particularly efficient against hair clogs but must often be used repeatedly or in high concentrations to do the job.
• Oxidizing drain cleaners contain bleach, peroxides or nitrates, all of which release oxygen when put down the drain. Oxidation breaks down organic matter and clears blockages from the pipes while killing bacteria. As a result, oxidizing cleaners are the best against easy-to-break-down materials like food.
• Caustic drain cleaners contain lye or potassium hydroxide, which generates heat to break down and dissolve materials inside the drain. The caustic nature of these cleaners allow them to dissolve fat, grease and other organic materials.
• Enzyme drain cleaners do not have chemicals. Instead, these products break down organic material using bacteria or enzymes. However, they take more time to dissolve clogs than chemical drain cleaners due to the fact the bacteria or enzymes require time to multiply. For this reason, enzyme drain cleaners are a good choice as a maintenance measure rather than a rapid drain-cleaning fix.
Is Drain Cleaner Safe?
Even though chemical drain cleaners are somewhat effective, they do pose risks. Here are a few key considerations:
• Chemical drain cleaner is bad for pipes. The heat created by caustic and acidic drain cleaners can harm pipes, especially older or plastic ones, which can deteriorate and crack eventually. Frequent use of these cleaners can cause pricey repairs or replacements, as damaged pipes are susceptible to leak or rupture.
• Chemical drain cleaner can harm humans. The highly toxic compounds in drain cleaner can result in respiratory issues if inhaled, very bad burns if touched, blindness if rubbed into the eyes or digestive problems if ingested. Therefore, drain cleaner must be utilized with great care.
• Chemical drain cleaner is bad for the planet. Putting chemicals in the drain sends toxic substances to local waterways, disrupting ecosystems, harming aquatic life and causing other environmentally harmful impacts.
Safer Alternatives to Drain Cleaner Chemicals
Luckily, chemicals aren’t the only solution for clearing blocked drains. Here are several safer methods to consider:
•
Dish soap and hot water: Pouring hot, soapy water down a slow drain helps break up grease and washes away slight blockages. The soap serves as a lubricant and emulsifier, while the hot water dissolves and washes out the clog. This strategy may require a couple attempts, but it’s safe and non-toxic.
•
Plunger: This manual drain-clearing technique sends blockages from the pipe without the need for harmful chemicals. Fill the clogged sink or tub with an inch of water to help make a tight seal over the drain opening. Then, make strong, continuous plunging motions until the water goes away.
•
Drain snake: Also known as a plumber’s auger, this tool involves a flexible cable with a corkscrew on the end. When put into the drain, the snake physically breaks up and
obstructions. This method is extremely effective against persistent clogs without doing any damage to the pipes or posing health risks.
•
Hydro-jetting: This professional service uses high-pressure water to blast away debris and buildup, offering a thorough cleaning that keeps future clogs at bay. Hydro-jetting requires a professional plumber’s assistance, but it’s the most efficient, long-lasting solution for even the toughest clogs.
Schedule Professional Drain Cleaning Services
While chemical drain cleaners provide a quick fix for slight clogs, they pose too many risks. Think about using safer, chemical-free choices to protect your pipes, your household and the environment. If your DIY fixes don’t do the job, turn to A1 Chesney Service Experts for
professional drain cleaning services in Calgary. We’ll get your drains clear once again and suggest tips to prevent clogs from returning. Our plumbers are ready to help, so reach out to
a Service Experts office near you today!
