Drain clogs are frustrating and can bring your day to a standstill. Many people want to save money and get the clogs resolved quickly. So, they run out to get some drain cleaner. You might be surprised to find that this is a big mistake.
There are many problems with using liquid drain cleaners. Aside from not getting to the source of the clog and prolonging the issue, there are a variety of hazards to such a practice. You can damage your plumbing system, create health problems, have harmful impacts on the environment and create a repeat issue.
Clogged Drain Repair East Texas PA: Why You Should Never Use Liquid Drain Cleaners
In this article, we will discuss some information that all homeowners should know about liquid drain cleaners.
Drain Cleaners Damage Your Plumbing System
While a drain cleaner may seem like a good idea, it often contains corrosive agents that will damage your plumbing. Some of these common ingredients are lye and bleach. Not only do they damage your plumbing but they often damage finishes on your vanities and sinks. Additionally, if you use different cleaners over time, they could mix in such a way to really hurt your pipes.
Believe it or not, there’s another issue with caustic chemicals. it destroys beneficial bacteria. More bad bacteria increases the chance of breaking down PVC and other foundations of your plumbing. This is especially problematic in a septic system that really relies on a good balance of bacteria.
Drain Cleaner Is Only A Temporary Fix
Quick fixes never last. Drain cleaners are simply a quick fix. Except that they don’t really fix anything. They just prolong fixing the underlying problem. So, that problem sticks around. Calling a plumber is the best solution when faced with a slow, backed up or clogged drain. They can help you discover the root of your plumbing problems.
Drain Cleaners Are Toxic For You
Breathing in harsh chemicals is not good for your health or your family’s health. They are irritants for your skin and your eyes. More importantly, they can irritate your lungs. Avoid using drain cleaners in standing water. For example, if you have a backed up toilet. Putting cleaner in there and then using a plunger is extremely risky. You can potentially splash the liquid on your skin or clothing. Any such contact should be considered an emergency. Plumbers generally ask if you’ve used one before they come. They know they have to take even more safety precautions than they already do.
Drain Cleaners Are Environmentally Unsound
In addition to harming the people in your household, drain cleaners are toxic to the environment. They end up in the soil, in landfills, and in waterways. They likely will stick around in your town’s water system as well. That means, it can end up in your drinking water. We circle back to your health. But, in the meantime, it’s also affected wildlife, both on land and in water.
Another Practical Consideration When Dealing With A Clogged Drain
Aside from all the hazards drain cleaners create, they are also expensive. You might think that you’re saving money by skimping on a plumber. You’re wrong. Long-lasting solutions to clogs will save you money over time. As previously mentioned, until you find the reason for a clog, you are at risk for continuous or repetitive drain backups or other clogs.
Conclusion
Liquid drain cleaners can cause real problems for homeowners. Many people probably have not thought much of pouring them down to resolve a clog. It’s pretty obvious, though, that the best solution to a clogged drain is to call a plumber. There are so many risks to using these cleaners. Risks like creating toxic gas emissions that can make anyone in your household sick. Risks like poisoning waterways and creating other environmental hazards. Also, you might think you’re saving money, but will likely end up spending more than you would have if you’d called a plumber right away.
Robinson Plumbing offers affordable, honest, and high-quality plumbing services for residents and businesses of the area. As a family-owned business, our priority lies in delivering positive customer experiences. Be sure to call Robinson Plumbing if you have a problematic clogged drain or for any other of your plumbing needs.
Some of the areas that we service in Lower Macungie Township include Alburtis, East Texas, Macungie, Trexlertown and these zip codes 18011, 18046, 18062, 18087 as well as all surrounding areas in Lehigh County, Pennsylvania.
Call us today at (610) 351-9889 or click here to contact us for any questions that you might have!