Why You Need to Stay Away from Chemical Drain Cleaners

Chemical drain cleaners have been touted around as a convenient solution for clogged drains, but the truth is, they aren’t the best option. While chemical drain cleaners can help to eliminate minor clogs, they can do more harm than good.

Most homeowners believe that they’re saving money by using chemical drain cleaners, but in most cases, they present a major threat to your plumbing system.

In this article, we will outline some of the reasons why you should never use chemical drain cleaners.

• Pipe Damage

The chemicals contained within chemical drain cleaners are strong enough to cut through clogs and obstructions. Besides, they generate heat to break down clogs. This heat can soften PVC pipes and corrode components of your plumbing system like seals. Older pipes are particularly susceptible to these chemicals. If you use chemical drain cleaners for a prolonged period of time, your piping will eventually need to be replaced. 

• Septic System Damage

Your septic tank contains naturally occurring bacteria which helps to break down waste. Chemical drain cleaners can kill the bacteria in your septic tank, leading to septic tank failure.

• Bad for The Environment

The active ingredients contained within chemical drain cleaners may make their way into water sources. If there are holes or cracks on your pipes, dumping chemical cleaners down your drains means they will end up being absorbed into the groundwater around your home. Besides, they release toxic fumes into the environment that can cause health effects. 

• They Are Not Very Effective

While chemical drain cleaners can get rid of minor clogs, they may not be effective for every type of clog. For instance, they may not be able to remove clogs caused by tree roots or damaged pipes.

• Health Hazard

Chemical drain cleaners are often made up of toxic chemicals which can be harmful to your skin, eyes, and hair. Splashing these products on your skin can cause serious burns. Even breathing the fumes released by chemical drain cleaners is dangerous.

• Dangerous to Children

Chemical drain cleaners can be a huge danger if you have children and pets around your home.

What Are Some of the Drain Cleaning Alternatives to Chemical Drain Cleaners?

• Hot water: Pouring a kettle of hot water into clogged drains can help liquefy minor clogs.
• Hiring a plumber: A plumber will use a set of reliable tools and get rid of drain clogs.

Are You in Need of Drain Cleaning in Your Home or Office? Contact Neighborhood Plumbing

Do your drains smell? Are your sinks slow to drain lately? Do you hear gurgling sounds coming out of your drains? If so, these are red flags indicating that you need to call a nearby plumber to help you with drain cleaning.

At Neighborhood Plumbing, we take pride in offering efficient and cost-effective drain cleaning services. We are equipped with state-of-the-art drain cleaning tools including drain snakes and hydro-jetting tools to ensure we do a thorough job.