Are Chemical Drain Cleaners Safe to Use?

Unblocking a blocked drain can be unpleasant work, so many homeowners resort to chemical drain cleaners to wash away the sludge. Bottles of these products are commonly found in cleaning cabinets, but are they really safe? Dive into the world of chemical drain cleaners, find out how they actually clear blockages and learn why they’re hazardous. Then, take a look at some safer alternatives for clearing clogged drains with no chemicals.

What are Chemical Drain Cleaners Used For?

Chemical drain cleaners are mainly used for clearing plumbing blockages. They appeal to homeowners because they’re practical, straightforward to use and offer effective 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 promoted as an easy and convenient solution to tackle persistent clogs and are sold at grocery stores, hardware stores and big box retailers.

How Do Drain Cleaners Work?

The exact reaction that takes place within the pipes depends on the type of drain cleaner being used. Here are some examples:

• Acidic drain cleaners contain sulfuric, muriatic or hydrochloric acid. This reacts with organic materials to make heat and gas, dissolving the clog. Acidic cleaners are very effective 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, which are substances that release oxygen when dumped down the drain. Oxidation breaks down organic matter and cleans obstructions from the pipes while destroying bacteria. Because of this, 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 clear up materials in the drain. The caustic traits of these cleaners allow them to dissolve fat, grease and other organic items.
• Enzyme drain cleaners don’t contain chemicals. Instead, these products break down organic material utilizing bacteria or enzymes. However, they require more time to remove blockages than chemical drain cleaners because the bacteria or enzymes must have time to multiply. Because of this, enzyme drain cleaners are most effective as a preventative measure rather than a speedy drain-cleaning solution.

Is Drain Cleaner Safe?

Although chemical drain cleaners are reasonably effective, they do pose risks. Here are a few key considerations:

• Chemical drain cleaner is bad for pipes. The heat generated by caustic and acidic drain cleaners can harm pipes, especially older or plastic ones, which can weaken and crack with time. Regular use of these cleaners can result in expensive repairs or replacements, as damaged pipes are more likely to leak or break.
• Chemical drain cleaner can harm people. The highly toxic chemicals 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 handled with great care.
• Chemical drain cleaner is dangerous to the planet. Pouring chemicals in the drain introduces toxic substances to local waterways, disrupting ecosystems, harming aquatic life and causing other environmentally detrimental effects.

Safer Alternatives to Drain Cleaner Chemicals

Luckily, chemicals aren’t the only choice for clearing stopped up drains. Here are a number of safer alternatives to attempt:

• Dish soap and hot water: Adding hot, soapy water to a slow-moving drain helps break up grease and washes away small blockages. The soap works as a lubricant and emulsifier, while the hot water dissolves and disperses the clog. This method may require a couple attempts, but it’s safe and non-toxic.
• Plunger: This manual drain-clearing technique pushes blockages down the the pipe without harmful chemicals. Fill the clogged sink or tub with an inch of water to help create a tight seal around the drain opening. Then, make powerful, continuous plunging motions until the water goes away.
• Drain snake: Also referred to as a plumber’s auger, this instrument involves a flexible cable with a corkscrew on the end. When put down the drain, the snake physically breaks up and blockages. This method is extremely effective against difficult 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 obstructions, offering a thorough cleaning that keeps future clogs from happening. Hydro-jetting requires a professional plumber’s assistance, but it’s the most efficient, long-lasting answer for even the toughest clogs.

Schedule Professional Drain Cleaning Services

While chemical drain cleaners provide a quick fix for slight clogs, they present too many risks. Consider switching to safer, chemical-free alternatives to protect your pipes, your loved ones and the environment. If your DIY attempts don’t do the job, turn to Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for professional drain cleaning services in Fort Lauderdale. We’ll get your drains clear once again and suggest tips to help prevent clogs from returning. Our plumbers are ready to help, so call a Service Experts office near you today!