Is It Safe To Use Chemical Drain Cleaners?

When you have a clogged drain your first instinct is to grab chemical drain cleaners. But is that actually what you should do?

Pipe Corrosion

There are many drain cleaners to choose from, each stronger than the next. But is there a point where these cleaners are too strong? Chemical drain cleaners need to break up grease, hair, dirt, and other debris. In order to do this, the cleaner creates a chemical reaction inside the pipe. Creating something strong enough to eat through something clogging a drain means that it has the potential to eat through the pipe itself. In addition to pipes, over time the chemicals will eat away at the enamel on your bathtubs and sinks.

Mixing Drain Cleaners

When one drain cleaner doesn’t work, it’s tempting to try another one. This is a very dangerous idea that could result in a toxic gas or an active reaction that could cause physical harm.

The Environment

Using these chemical drain cleaners require rinsing them with water while attempting to clear the clogged drain. That means the harsh chemicals will inevitably end up in the environment. Whether it’s the municipal water system or your own septic system, the chemicals will find their way into the groundwater.

Your Health

Chemicals strong enough to unclog a drain are strong enough to affect your health. Pouring them out of the bottle means inhaling fumes. These can stay in the air for hours, irritating your eyes, nose, throat and lungs. Splashing may occur which can cause burns and rashes. In the event that you need to call a professional plumber, any additives that have not cleared the drain will put the plumber at risk.

Professional Help

Some problems are best left to professionals. If your drain is clogged beyond the help of a plunger or snake, please give 1-800-anytyme a call. We would love to help you out! Contact us via our contact form or call (760) 477-0072 to speak with a member of our team today!