Are Chemical Drain Cleaners Safe to Use?

Unblocking a plugged drain can be unpleasant work, so many homeowners resort to chemical drain cleaners to wash away the gunk. Bottles of these products are often found in cleaning cabinets, but are they truly safe? Dive into the world of chemical drain cleaners, find out how they work 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 primarily used for clearing plumbing clogs. They appeal to homeowners because they’re quick, 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 advertised as an easy and convenient solution to handle persistent 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 will depend on the type of drain cleaner being used. Here are some examples:

• Acidic drain cleaners include sulfuric, muriatic or hydrochloric acid. This reacts with organic materials to make heat and gas, dissolving the clog. Acidic cleaners are very successful 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 release oxygen when poured in the drain. Oxidation breaks down organic matter and removes blockages from the pipes while destroying bacteria. Consequently, oxidizing cleaners work very well against easy-to-break-down blockages like food.
• Caustic drain cleaners contain lye or potassium hydroxide, which produces heat to break down and clear up materials inside the drain. The caustic traits of these cleaners allow them to dissolve fat, grease and other organic materials.
• Enzyme drain cleaners don’t have chemicals. Instead, these products break down organic material using bacteria or enzymes. However, they take longer to remove blockages than chemical drain cleaners because the bacteria or enzymes must have time to multiply. Because of this, enzyme drain cleaners are a good choice as a preventative measure rather than a rapid drain-cleaning solution.

Is Drain Cleaner Safe?

Although chemical drain cleaners are somewhat effective, they do pose risks. Here are a few key issues to consider:

• Chemical drain cleaner is not good for pipes. The heat produced by caustic and acidic drain cleaners can inflict damage on pipes, especially older or plastic ones, which can deteriorate and crack with time. Repeated use of these cleaners can result in pricey repairs or replacements, as damaged pipes are susceptible to leak or burst.
• Chemical drain cleaner can injure humans. The highly toxic chemicals in drain cleaner can cause respiratory issues if inhaled, severe burns if touched, blindness if rubbed into the eyes or digestive complications if ingested. Therefore, drain cleaner must be handled with great care.
• Chemical drain cleaner is harmful to the earth. Pouring chemicals into the drain sends toxic substances to local waterways, disrupting ecosystems, harming aquatic life and causing other environmentally damaging impacts.

Safer Alternatives to Drain Cleaner Chemicals

Fortunately, chemicals aren’t the only solution for clearing stopped up drains. Here are several safer possibilities to consider:

• Dish soap and hot water: Pouring hot, soapy water down 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 call for a couple attempts, but it’s safe and non-toxic.
• Plunger: This manual drain-clearing approach pushes blockages down the the pipe with no harmful chemicals. Fill the clogged sink or tub with an inch of water to help produce a tight seal on top of the drain opening. Then, make powerful, continuous plunging motions until the water goes down the drain.
• Drain snake: Also referred to as a plumber’s auger, this tool features a flexible cable with a corkscrew on the end. When put down the drain, the snake physically breaks up and removes obstructions. This method is very effective against difficult clogs and doesn’t damage the pipes or creating any 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 at bay. Hydro-jetting requires a professional plumber’s assistance, but it’s the most powerful, long-lasting option for even the most challenging clogs.

Schedule Professional Drain Cleaning Services

While chemical drain cleaners present a quick cure for little clogs, they create too many risks. Consider switching to safer, chemical-free choices to protect your pipes, your household and the environment. If your DIY attempts don’t work, turn to Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for professional drain cleaning services in Fort Lauderdale. We’ll get your drains clear once again and recommend tips to stop clogs from returning. Our plumbers are ready to help, so call a Service Experts office near you today!