Clogs — whether they happen all the time or are far and few between, they occur when you least expect them. Luckily, these “pests” are generally simple to remove with the correct tools, but one solution should never be used: chemical drain cleaner.
While chemical drain cleaners can help eat away at pipe debris, the chemical concoction could do more harm than good. The plumbing professionals at Red Lilly Plumbing explain.
Why is it Unsafe to Use a Chemical Drain Cleaner?
Corrodes Pipes Over Time
One of the biggest nightmares of using a chemical drain cleaner is that, over time, the concoction has the power to eat away at your plumbing pipes. And when a pipe corrodes, no repair can fix it — other than replacing it altogether.
Another thing to keep in mind about using a chemical-based drain cleaner is that if your home has PVC pipes, which are typically indestructible, it can eat through them much more comfortably than the cleaner would through galvanized steel or copper.
Hazardous to Your Health
If you use a chemically-crafted drain cleaner in a poorly ventilated area — such as a bathroom with no window or fan — it can be extremely harmful to your respiratory system over time. Additionally, another detail to know: If you happen to use a chemical drain cleaner and mix it with another, there’s a chance that it can create a noxious gas.
A Temporary Fix
While a drain cleaner can promise to remove stubborn drain debris in a matter of seconds, it’s only a matter of time before your drainpipe will become clogged again — since the chemical drain cleaner won’t effectively touch every square inch of the surface.
To get a thorough drain cleaning, it’s best to have a professional drain cleaning conducted by your plumber.