The Dangers of Chemical Drain Cleaners

Clogged drains are a common problem in many households, and while commercial chemical drain cleaners may seem like the easiest solution, they can do more harm than good. Here we will discuss why chemical drain cleaners harm your plumbing and give you better alternatives.

The Problem with Chemical Drain Cleaners

Chemical drain cleaners contain corrosive ingredients such as sulfuric acid or sodium hydroxide that can damage your pipes over time. These chemicals can also cause skin and respiratory irritation if not handled properly. Additionally, these harsh chemicals can react with other substances in your pipes, creating gases that are toxic to breathe.

In addition to the health risks posed by chemical drain cleaners, they are only occasionally effective at clearing clogged drains. Depending on the material causing the clog, chemical cleaners may only be able to dissolve part of it, leaving the rest still stuck in the pipes. This is because chemical cleaners are designed to break down organic material soap scum, hair, and grease but cannot handle solid items like toys or jewelry that may have become lodged in the pipes. Furthermore, if the clog is caused by tree roots growing into your pipes, no chemical cleaner will dissolve them.

Better Alternatives for Unclogging Drains

Fortunately, there are plenty of safer alternatives to using chemical drain cleaners for unclogging your drains. For example, boiling water poured down the affected pipe works well for dissolving grease and soap scum buildup without damaging your pipes or releasing toxins into the air. Plungers can also dislodge most clogs from sinks and toilets without using chemicals.

**If you have a tough clog that is not responding to boiling water or plunging, it’s time to call Diliberto Plumbing! **

Chemical drain cleaners may seem like an easy solution for blocked drains, but they often do more harm than good. Not only do they pose health risks if mishandled, but they can also damage your plumbing over time due to their corrosive ingredients and failure to remove certain kinds of clogs.

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