Do All Drain Cleaners Damage Pipes?

7/23/2022 (Permalink)

Drain cleaners may degrade plumbing in a residence in Humble, TX

Most chemicals intended for clearing a clogged drain are corrosive and toxic. Depending on pipe materials, drain cleaners may degrade plumbing in a residence in Humble, TX. Enzymatic drain treatments are less damaging, but also work more slowly. Learn more about how acidic, caustic, and oxidizing cleaners work to determine the most effective sewage cleaning method.

How Do Cleaners Work?

Cleaning products are most effective on slow or partially clogged drains. There are three types of drain cleaner chemicals:

• Acidic, such as hydrochloric or sulfuric acid
• Caustic, such as sodium hydroxide
• Oxidizing, such as sodium hypochlorite

Acidic solutions attract electrons, while caustic solutions give electrons to the clog. Both of these types of cleaners release heat. Sodium hypochlorite oxidizes the clog and releases electrons, heat, and gas. A fully clogged drain should be cleared mechanically.

What Are Enzymatic Treatments?

Enzymes restore the bacterial balance of a drain line, which can prevent clogs. These treatments should be used before a drain slows or clogs. Flush mainline enzymes down a toilet twice a month to start and then once every three months. Clear sink or shower drains by pouring enzymes down the drain once a week for a month and then once a month.

Which Treatments Are the Most Effective?

Chemical drain cleaning solutions work quickly to speed up a slow drain or clear a partial blockage, but these products may also damage pipes. These substances are also highly toxic to humans, domestic animals, and the environment. When used as directed, enzymatic treatments are safer and can keep clogs from forming.

In the case of a completely clogged drain, it is better to call a plumber than use treatments that may fail to break up a blockage or sit in pipes and cause damage. If a clog results in a backup and sewer damage, contact a sewage cleaning company in Humble, TX.