Rethink Using Drain Cleaners

6/20/2020 (Permalink)

When faced with a clogged drain, business owners in Oklahoma City, OK, may immediately reach for a drain cleaner

When faced with a clogged drain, business owners in Oklahoma City, OK, may immediately reach for a drain cleaner. Unfortunately, that is often a temporary fix and the strong ingredients used them can damage your plumbing system. That may mean added expenses from a plumber and water damage and remediation expert.

Problems with Chemical Cleaners

There are three main types of options on the market:

Caustic: Contain lye and caustic potash
Oxidizing: Contain bleach, peroxides, nitrates
Acid: Contain sulfuric and muriatic acid

For buildings with older metal pipes or plastic pipes, the heat these cleaners generate can damage those types of piping. Since they are designed for partial issues, using them on a complete blockage can also lead to other issues.
Oftentimes, finding the real culprit of a clog is overlooked. Although hair, grease, and debris are main causes, there could be a much larger underlying problem, such as a broken pipe or sewer line, making the use of a cleaner null. It could also be a backup from the main sewer, which require sewage cleaning services to properly address.

Safer Options
If you know the reason for the clogged drain and feel that a cleaner will do the trick, consider more environmental-and plumping-safe options.

Mechanical: A bent wire hanger or plumber’s auger are easily accessible tools that can clear the top inches of a clog. They work by penetrating through the clog to make it easier to pull out or force down the drain.
Biological: There is a good chance that the ingredients for a homemade cleaner are already on the premises. Vinegar and baking soda are a natural method of cleaning just about anything, including breaking down clogs. There are also eco-friendly enzymatic options for purchase, which feature enzymes or bacteria that slowly dissolve the problem.

Before reaching for a harsh, chemical treatment, consider the underlying clog issues and safer alternatives. If it is an ongoing problem, the best bet is to call a trusted plumber and fully be rid of the problem.