Are You Sure You Need a Drain Cleaner ?

8/31/2020 (Permalink)

 No one likes a clogged drain or plumbing problems, these can be ranging from horrendous to doable.

Some problems require professionals before it is too late and others need a simple fix or an at home DIY (do it yourself). There are many ways to get a drain working again, some better than others. Though reaching right away for a drain cleaner seems like a good idea, a closer look suggests pouring chemicals into your pipes should be approached with caution. These reasons clarify the dangers of resorting to chemicals. 

- The chemicals in a drain cleaner can be toxic 

     Drain cleaners are toxic to humans and to pets. Merely breathing in the chemicals can cause stinging in the eyes and discomfort in the mouth. The chemicals can also burn exposed skin. Putting them into your plumbing system may not be the safest. 

- Hazardous for the Environment

     Chemicals that go down the drain in your home or business in East Honolulu wind up in streams, groundwater, and the beach. These chemicals are toxic enough to kill fish, marine life, mammals and insects. There are less harmful ways to clear a clogged drain, including mechanical and biological options. 

- Erosion on pipes 

     Chemical drain cleaners work by creating enough heat to burn through substances causing the blockage. Whether the source of the heat is lye, bleach, acid, or some other substance, the chemicals can harm older, weaker pipes and plastic pipes. These chemicals weaken pipes and will lead to more issues in the future. 

- There is no 100% guarantee 

     In situations where the drain is completely blocked, chemicals often just sit in the pipes creating heat and not clearing the drain. Oil and grease buildup in the drain is another occasion not conducive to being cleaned with chemicals. 

What are some alternatives to store bought cleaners? 

• Vinegar and Baking Soda - The vinegar is an acidic chemical, and baking soda is a natural cleansing product. Mix these two ingredients over the clogged drain. The mixture will fizz. Let the mixture sit overnight. In the morning, flush the drain with hot water.
• Hot Water and Dish Soap - Boil some hot water and mix in a few tablespoons of dish soap. Then slowly pour the mixture down the drain. The hot water will help to liquefy the clog, and the soap will help it to slide down the drain.  

Whether your home or business has a clogged drain or a major sewage problem and happened to cause water damage, SERVPRO professionals are Faster to Any Size Disaster and are trained to remediate water damage. They are experienced in sewage cleaning methods that restore a building to excellent condition again. The franchise has been helping people recover from fires, floods, and other disasters for over 50 years. 

Do Not Hesitate to Call Us at  

(808) 395-9545