Various Types of Chemical Drain Cleaners: Are They Safe?
Chemical drain cleaners can be seen very commonly in many households. They are the instant solution for clogged drains. These products contain heavy and robust chemicals that go all down the pipes to remove clogs. It is believed that these chemicals-filled products can clean drains effectively. However, according to many drain cleaning experts, they can also cause damage to pipes, which can sometimes be irreparable. Not only pipes but also these chemicals and vapors coming from them can affect the respiratory system of living beings and the environment.
What are Chemical Drain Cleaners?
Chemical drain cleaners are mixers or pure chemicals that help clear clogged pipes or drains blocked by hairs, waste, food material, or any other organic material. Once you pour it in drains, due to its heavy nature and chemical reaction, it either dissolves or melts the blockage and unclogs the pipe. However, using them once or twice can be recommended. But by using them continuously, the chemical will react and damage the pipe.
Types of Chemical Drain Cleaners
There are different types of drain cleaners. However, the ones that are available for regular household drain cleaning can be divided into four types.
- Acid Drain Cleaners
As the name suggests, these cleaners usually contain either sulfuric acid or Hydrochloric acid. When these acids meet blockage materials, they undergo chemical reactions and break down the blockage. However, the heat produced by this chemical reaction can damage the pipe.
- Caustic Drain Cleaners
These cleaners contain high pH levels and contain sodium Hydroxide, Iye, caustic soda, and similar materials. These act just like acid drain cleaners and are best to clear grease blockages. Sometimes, the blockage would remain intact if the product doesn’t come into contact.
- Oxidizing Drain Cleaners
Compared to acid and caustic drain cleaners, oxidizing drain cleaners are less harmful but can be as effective as both of them. These cleaners are usually peroxide materials, bleach, nitrates, or similar materials. Along with clearing the blockage in the drain, using these products can release heat and gases that cause damage.
- Enzymatic Drain Cleaners
These drain cleaners don’t produce heat. They are prepared by using enzyme preparations and bacterial cultures. They work slowly and can remove organic matter from drains.
Alternative to Chemical Drain Cleaners
Usually, drain cleaning experts use tools and techniques, including mechanical drain cleaners, Augers (hand-operated and motor-driven), Hydro jetting, Camera inspections, pulse jetters, etc., to clean clogs effectively. These techniques are the best alternatives as they don’t require any chemicals, which is beneficial for pipes, health, and the environment.
Conclusion
Even though chemical drain cleaners have become common in every household, it is always best to use non-chemical ones to prevent any slight damage. Nowadays, there are many organic and natural products available everywhere. However, getting help from drain cleaning experts to clean blockages is quite advisable. It is also advisable to clean the drain either weekly or monthly to prevent adverse effects such as sewer smells, blockages, and emergency repairs.
