A clogged drain is a common nightmare for homeowners. With your home plumbing systems connected, one clogged drain can cause a mountain of issues, and chemical drain cleaners can add on to those problems.
Although the chemical drain cleaners may seem like an easy and effective solution, the toxins can do more harm to your system than good.
They are not always effective at clearing clogged drains. Pipes can be clogged for many reasons and sometimes calling a professional to investigate the problem may be the best or only way to clean it.
Toxins such as sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, and sodium hydroxide can be in these cleaners which can cause serious damage to your household and your health if mishandled.
Damages
Chemicals in the drain cleaner can damage your pipes. It can cause corrosion, destroy fixtures, and damage your septic system.
It can create leaks in your pipes, which can lead to larger issues in the future. Chemicals that may be included in drain cleaners can eat away at:
Galvanized Steel
PVC
Iron Pipes
Fixtures
Copper
The damage extends beyond your pipes and your household. Cleaning chemicals can be hazardous to the environment. They need to be properly recycled and most of them can end up in landfills and get introduced into the water systems, poisoning plants, and wildlife.
Health Risks
Chemicals that may be included in these drain cleaners are not only dangerous to the touch, but the fumes can be dangerous to your health.
If you come in contact with the chemicals some can burn your hair and skin. A simple drip down the side of the bottle or splatter of the liquid could cause a serious chemical burn, leading to a trip to the emergency room.
Alternatives
There are alternatives instead of using the damaging chemical drain cleaners.
Some simple DIY options include vinegar and baking soda or hot water and dish soap.
A consistency of drain flushing can also help prevent clogs in the future.
If your drain keeps stumbling across clogs, call your local drain experts, to help find if there is an underlying issue.
If you need a professional drain cleaning, the Dr Rooter of Lexington team is ready to help! Call us at (803) 398-2090 for all your plumbing needs!