Is Drain Cleaner Bad for Pipes?

You’ve probably seen those commercials where you pour some drain cleaner down a sink full of dirty water, and it magically clears up. However, you may wonder if using a drain cleaner is bad for your pipes or not. While it can be an effective way of clearing up some clogs, there are some potential risks that you should know before using it.

What Is Drain Cleaner?

Drain cleaners are typically caustic solutions that are used to clear clogs in drains. They usually contain strong chemicals, such as lye or acid, that can dissolve hair, grease, and other materials that may cause a blockage.

While drain cleaners can be effective in clearing up some clogs, it comes with some risks that you should keep in mind. The most common ingredient in drain cleaners is sulfuric acid. This strong acid can react with the materials causing the clog. It can also be corrosive to your pipes. Bases such as lye or caustic soda are common ingredients in drain cleaners. These bases can also be corrosive to your pipes.

What Are the Potential Risks of Using a Drain Cleaner?

Drain cleaners can effectively clear clogged drains, but they can also be dangerous if used incorrectly without caution. The chemicals in drain cleaners are caustic and can damage your pipes if used too frequently or in high concentrations. In addition, drain cleaners can be extremely toxic if swallowed.

If you’re facing a clogged drain, you may be tempted to reach for the drain cleaner. But before you do, it’s important to understand the potential risks involved with using these chemicals.

Damage Your Pipes

Caustic chemicals can eat away at your pipes, causing them to deteriorate‌. If you use drain cleaners too frequently or in high concentrations, you may ‌see damage to your pipes. This damage can lead to leaks, decreased water pressure, and eventually a complete breakdown of your plumbing system.

Drain Cleaners Can Be Toxic if Swallowed

It can be extremely dangerous if you or someone in your family swallows drain cleaner. The chemicals in drain cleaners can cause burns to the throat and esophagus and can even be fatal if swallowed in large quantities. It’s important to keep drain cleaners out of reach of children and pets and to call poison control immediately if someone ingests drain cleaner.

Drain Cleaners Can Cause Chemical Burns

If you use a drain cleaner and don’t follow the instructions carefully, you could end up with chemical burns. The chemicals in drain cleaners can cause burns to the skin, eyes, and throat. It’s important to wear gloves, goggles, and a face mask when using drain cleaners to protect yourself from these potentially harmful chemicals.

Before You Use Drain Cleaner

Before reaching for the drain cleaner, you should first try using a plunger or a plumbing snake to clear the clog. If these methods don’t work, you can use a small amount of drain cleaner to see if it will dissolve the clog. However, it’s important to use drain cleaner sparingly and to follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging your pipes or harming yourself.

Using a Plunger Is Often the Safest Way to Clear a Clogged Drain

If you’re dealing with a clogged drain, your best bet is to reach for a plunger. Plungers are relatively inexpensive and easy to use, and they’re often all you need to clear a clogged drain. You can use a plumbing snake if you’ve tried a plunger and your drain is still clogged.

Bottom Line

Drain cleaners are effective, but they come with some risks. Use caution when using these chemicals. If your drain is still giving you trouble, your best bet is to call a plumber. You can call Sunrise Heating & Plumbing at 616-293-9326 for all your plumbing needs.

Our experienced professionals will clear your drain safely and quickly, without damaging your pipes. For more information on our services, visit our website or call us today.