Chemical drain cleaners can perform as their claims say. These outcomes take the work on your part to make sure that they are used as directed. You need to first take a look at the symptoms of the clog and determine whether or not it’s a partial or complete blockage, since it is important to know how much flow there is to the pipe. Knowing how much flow there is in the pipe is necessary to use the drain cleaner as directed. Most of the drain cleaners you will find are designed to help clear a partially clogged drain. Since drain cleaners are so powerful that they can cause damage to your pipes, it is wise to use them only as a last resort
Drain cleaner can harm your pipes when your pipes are:
1. Metal pipes used in the construction of an older home.
2. Plastic pipes not being treated as directed.
3. Pipes that have a complete blockage.
Heat is produced from the chemicals in drain cleaners that can cause warping or damage to softer pipes, such as plastic or old metal piping. This means that if there is a complete blockage in the pipe, the cleaner will sit inside the pipe, just as the water would, and eat away at the pipe material. It is important to know how drain cleaners work to keep your pipes in the best condition you can while treating clogs.
There are some alternatives to chemical drain cleaners that you could opt for. Mechanical options include everything from household drain snakes to industrial powered and operated hot water jetting, which is highly effective. Other options include more heavy duty cleaners that are enzyme based and require a set period of time to work correctly.
Lastly, drain cleaners are harmful to people, period. They are considered one of the most dangerous household products due to their extreme toxicity. Inhaling the vapors alone could cause discomfort. They will burn through skin on contact, so take precautions while using!
In short, drain cleaners provide solutions for partial, less problematic clogs. They can dissolve enough of the hair or food to help the water flow more freely, however, the clogs that usually get pushed through end up clogging further down the line over time. Give Sewer Surgeons a call at (973) 579-3322 to schedule a professional drain repairing, relining, or replacement service and get your pipes clean as new without all the fuss.
