Most homeowners will experience issues with a clogged drain and will be tempted to go to the store to find a chemical cleaner to take care of the clog. Shopping for a drain cleaner can be a tough task because there are dozens of products on the market and not all of them are safe or effective.
Common drain blockages occur in the kitchen sink from grease build-up and food waste and in the shower from hair, soap scum, dirt and etc. A chemical solution can dissolve some waste, and there is an abundance of fume-free products out there.
Before heading out to the store, though, do a little research. While some products may work, they aren’t always the best or the safest for your pipes or the environment.
When it comes to cleaning a drain, acidic chemicals like Drano are not recommended. These types of chemicals can damage the piping if they sit in the line for too long. If your home has a septic tank, certain chemicals can interfere with the performance of the tank. It’s best to avoid acidic chemical cleaners that contain sulfuric acid or hydrochloric acid. Both can cause damage to drains, pipes, and tanks. These types of cleaners should be used only by a professional.
Drain “maintenance” products that have an organic base and are safe for the environment are the best products to use. These can be used monthly to keep grease and sludge from building up in drains over time.
Enzymatic drain cleaners are another type of product that usually comes in a dry powder form and dissolves residue. These are a good choice for slow-running drains.
If you do try to use a chemical to unclog a drain and it does not work, it may be time to call in a professional. It is very important to make the professional aware of what products or chemicals that were already used in the drain. This way the technician can take the appropriate safety precautions.
Having a problem with a backed-up or slow drain? Call Korrect to get that drain cleared and flowing again. We have professional-grade drain cleaning equipment that allows us to clean and maintain anything from a small sink or toilet drain, up to 6-inch main drain lines.