3 Things to Know About Drain Cleaners Before Using

4/10/2022 (Permalink)

When a clogged drain stops water from flowing through your home's plumbing, you may reach for one of several drain cleaners you have handy. These products are adept at handling small sink or toilet clogs and can help water drain smoothly. However, before you use these liquids, SERVPRO of East Memphis wants you to know where they can be used and when they might do more harm than good.

Drain Cleaners May Damage Older Pipes

Using a drain cleaner to clear a clog may harm your pipes if you have an older home. These liquids can contain several caustic ingredients designed to dissolve hair and waste, and the heat they create once introduced in the line can warp older metal pipes. If this happens, your plumbing problems may multiply instead of resolve.

Drain Cleaners May Not Remove Clogs

While some drain cleaners effectively clear a clogged drain or bathroom sink, they don't always work on large toilet clogs. Suppose the chemicals are unable to deal with the mass. In this scenario, the product can remain in the pipes and sometimes cause warping or other damage, leading to a massive toilet overflow and the need for a sewage cleaning and removal company. If a drain cleaning product doesn't produce results within 24 hours, it may be wise to call a plumber.

Drain Cleaners May Be Hazardous

Clearing a drain with a liquid cleaner can be convenient, but these products could pose a threat to you, your pets, or wildlife. They sometimes contain toxic ingredients that can be harmful when inhaled and have the potential to harm the local environment if they find their way into natural water sources. As such, it's essential to handle these products carefully.

Before reaching for a liquid drain cleaner, it's essential to know the cleaner's facts and its use. Read and follow the directions carefully on the containers to keep your home and family safe.