Are Chemical Drain Cleaners Safe to Use?

Unblocking a clogged drain can be unpleasant work, so many homeowners resort to chemical drain cleaners to wash away the gunk. Bottles of these products are commonly found in cleaning closets, but are they truly safe? Dive into the world of chemical drain cleaners, see how they actually clear blockages and learn why they’re hazardous. Then, take a look at some safer alternatives for cleaning clogged drains without having to use chemicals.

What are Chemical Drain Cleaners Used For?

Chemical drain cleaners are primarily used for clearing plumbing obstructions. They appeal to homeowners because they’re quick, easy 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 materials hindering the flow of water through the drain. They are often advertised as an easy and effortless solution to fix stubborn clogs and are sold at grocery stores, hardware stores and big box retailers.

How Do Drain Cleaners Work?

The precise reaction that happens within the pipes will depend on the type of drain cleaner being used. Here are a few examples:

  • Acidic drain cleaners have sulfuric, muriatic or hydrochloric acid. This reacts with organic materials to create heat and gas, dissolving the clog. Acidic cleaners are particularly successful against hair clogs but must often be used over and over or in high concentrations to do the job.
  • Oxidizing drain cleaners contain bleach, peroxides or nitrates, which are substances that release oxygen when dumped down the drain. Oxidation breaks down organic matter and cleans blockages from the pipes while killing bacteria. Consequently, oxidizing cleaners are most effective against easy-to-break-down blockages like food.
  • Caustic drain cleaners contain lye or potassium hydroxide, which creates heat to break down and dissolve materials in the drain. The caustic nature of these cleaners allow them to dissolve fat, grease and other organic items.
  • Enzyme drain cleaners do not use chemicals. Instead, they break down organic material with bacteria or enzymes. However, they require more time to dissolve clogs than chemical drain cleaners given that the bacteria or enzymes must have time to multiply. For this reason, enzyme drain cleaners are most effective as a preventative measure rather than a fast drain-cleaning solution.

Is Drain Cleaner Safe?

Although chemical drain cleaners are somewhat effective, they do present risks. Here are a few key concerns:

  • Chemical drain cleaner is bad for pipes. The heat generated by caustic and acidic drain cleaners can inflict damage on pipes, especially older or plastic ones, which can become weak and crack eventually. Regular use of these cleaners can cause pricey repairs or replacements, as damaged pipes are susceptible to leak or break.
  • Chemical drain cleaner can hurt people. The highly toxic compounds in drain cleaner can trigger respiratory issues if inhaled, very bad burns if touched, blindness if rubbed into the eyes or digestive concerns if ingested. Therefore, drain cleaner must be utilized with a lot of care.
  • Chemical drain cleaner is harmful to the environment. Dumping chemicals in the drain introduces toxic substances to local waterways, disrupting ecosystems, harming aquatic life and causing other environmentally harmful consequences.

Safer Alternatives to Drain Cleaner Chemicals

The good news is, chemicals aren’t the only solution for clearing stopped up drains. Here are a number of safer alternatives to consider:

  • Dish soap and hot water: Adding hot, soapy water to a sluggish drain helps break up grease and washes away slight blockages. The soap works as a lubricant and emulsifier, while the hot water dissolves and disperses the clog. This method may require several attempts, but it’s safe and non-toxic.
  • Plunger: This manual drain-clearing method forces blockages from the pipe with no harmful chemicals. Fill the clogged sink or tub with an inch of water to help generate a tight seal over the drain opening. Then, make forceful, continuous plunging motions until the water drains away.
  • Drain snake: Also called a plumber’s auger, this tool uses a flexible cable with a corkscrew on the end. When inserted into the drain, the snake physically breaks up and removes blockages. This method is very effective against stubborn clogs without doing any damage to the pipes or creating any health risks.
  • Hydro-jetting: This professional service uses high-pressure water to blast away debris and buildup, delivering a thorough cleaning that keeps future clogs from happening. Hydro-jetting requires a professional plumber’s assistance, but it’s the most effective, long-lasting option for even the most difficult clogs.

Schedule Professional Drain Cleaning Services

While chemical drain cleaners offer a quick cure for minor clogs, they pose too many risks. Consider using safer, chemical-free choices to protect your pipes, your family and the environment. If your DIY fixes prove fruitless, turn to Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for professional drain cleaning services in the U.S.. We’ll get your drains flowing smoothly again and recommend tips to prevent clogs from returning. Our plumbers are eager to help, so call a Service Experts office near you today!

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