Close the Cap on Chemical Drain Cleaners

Liquid chemical drain cleaners are a popular solution for a cheap and quick fix for a clogged drain. However, there are several disadvantages to using chemical cleaners, the least of which being they don’t always work as advertised.

Damage from Chemical Drain Cleaners

Liquid cleaners use highly corrosive chemicals to get through clogs. While these chemicals might get through the clog, your pipes are not immune to their corrosive effects. Use of liquid cleaners over time can do significant damage to your pipes, and can lead to leaks or possible damage beyond repair. Often, these chemicals are not effective when it comes to clogs deeper within the drain or solid waste blocking the drain system. So, the further away from the opening of the drain, the less effect they have.

Not Environmentally Friendly

Many people don’t consider this aspect of chemical cleaners when pouring them down their drains. This has a lot to do with the fact that you’re using them as they’re intended. Taken out of context, would you pour out a bottle of chemicals that weren’t advertised as drain cleaners? All of those chemicals will eventually make their way into the environment, where they have the potential to do a lot of harm.

And, if the environmental aspect isn’t bad enough… there is the personal hazards to consider. Chemical drain cleaners are one of the most toxic chemicals you can buy for your home. In addition to the normal risk of inhaling fumes or coming into contact with your eyes or skin, there are added dangers. When these chemicals come into contact with water, metal and other materials, some manufacturers warn of possible production of explosive vapors.

Secondary Costs

Many people choose liquid drain cleaners because they’re cheap and easier to use. While both of these facts are true, the damage they can do to your pipes can actually cause you to end up spending more in the long run. Drain cleaning or fixing a simple clog by a plumbing professional may cost about $99.  Replacing worn out pipes in your drain system will cost a lot more. Hiring a professional guarantees that your pipes will be clean, clog free, and unharmed. Chemical cleaners “may” get rid of the clog, but they will leave your pipes worse for the wear.

So, next time you have a clog, think twice before you go out for some liquid cleaner. In the long run, you’ll be doing do yourself as well as the environment a huge favor.

Abbott’s Plumbing, the Drain Cleaning Experts

Abbott’s Plumbing is a second generation family-owned, full service contractor in Baltimore, Maryland. From Baltimore to Towson to Catonville and Dundalk, we offer drain cleaning services to help keep your drains flowing. Our drain cleaning experts can accurately diagnose and fix any clogged drain using top of line, professional drain cleaning equipment. And, we regularly use cameras to diagnose issues quicker.

So next time you have a plumbing issue arise, no matter how small, pick up the phone and call the professional and courteous plumbers at Abbott’s Plumbing! If you have any questions about our blog, “Close the Cap on Chemical Drain Cleaners,” or have a plumbing problem that needs attention, please contact Abbott’s Plumbing by calling 410-796-0442.

Source

http://voices.yahoo.com/why-plumbers-dont-recommend-chemical-drain-7166492.html?cat=6