The Hazards of Household Chemical Drain Cleaning Products

Chemical drain cleaners are some of the most hazardous chemicals found in homes today. They are not only a potential health hazard, but can also damage your plumbing system and home furnishings.

Chemical drain cleaners are typically found in several forms. The alkaline kind contains sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide. The acidic kind contain concentrated sulphuric acid. Other chemicals often found in home drain cleaners include bleach and lye.

 Drain cleaners can be effective at removing organic matter in the area immediately below the drain opening, but they are usually ineffective on tougher clogs that form further down the drain pipe, particularly toilet and sewer line clogs.

Because chemical drain cleaners work by causing a chemical reaction with the organic matter clogging the drain, it’s important that they be poured slowly and that you protect yourself any potential contact with the chemicals. Read the instructions carefully as contact with some of these chemicals can cause burns, blindness and inflammation to your respiratory system.

Chemical drain cleaners can also corrode metal pipes and damage the finishes in your kitchen or bathroom, such as wood, paint, aluminum and fiberglass.

The Advantages of Calling a Professional Plumber For Drain Cleaning

The safest and most effective way to clear clogged drains is to call a professional plumber. A plumber will use mechanical means to remove the toughest clogs that chemical drain cleaners either cannot reach, or are unable to fully dissolve.

You’ll eliminate the need to store hazardous chemicals in your home, which can harm your family’s health and potentially damage your plumbing system. So the next time you have a clogged drain emergency, call Grand Lake Plumbing & Heating. We’ll arive in minutes, not hours to unglog your drains, FAST.