At Barner Murphy, our professionals have seen firsthand the damage caused by chemical drain cleaners. Specifically, pouring these liquid drain cleaners into a pipe can cause corrosion because the chemicals weaken the pipes, seals, rubber gaskets, and plumbing joints. The resulting deterioration can lead to a pipe bursting or leaking. This danger is especially true with old PCV pipes.

Clogged Sinks

Most people buy chemical drain cleaners to unclog a sink clog. Unfortunately, they can make matters worse. It’s possible for them to interact with the clog and solidify. Now you have a double plumbing problem and will probably need professional help, like what Barner Murphy provides. 

Septic Systems

Do you have a septic system? Chemical drain cleaners can cause issues there, too. The corrosive chemicals interfere with the beneficial bacteria that septic systems contain. In turn, the system can malfunction. In this case, call a licensed plumber. In Pennsylvania, there are specific regulations that must be followed for repairs. 

Kitchen and Bathroom Fixtures

While you might not think of it right away, there’s the danger that chemical drain cleaners can harm fixture finishes. Porcelain and chrome are particularly susceptible if splashed.

Dangers of Chemical Drain Cleaners to People and Pets

While drain cleaners seem convenient, they can pose significant risks to people and pets. One of the big issues is chemical burns. If you’re not wearing protection on your hands, sulfuric acid, lye, or sodium hydroxide present in the cleaner can burn your skin badly.

Breathing in the fumes from chemical drain cleaners can irritate your lungs and nose. People with asthma need to be doubly cautious. Open those windows! 

If you have children who sometimes get into the cleaning cabinet, these products are poisonous. If swallowed, they burn internally, may tear the esophagus, create abdominal pain, and even put a person into shock. For pets, the dangers of licking areas you’ve treated can be lethal.

WARNING

Never mix chemical drain cleaners with bleach or other cleaning products. The resulting fumes are highly toxic. Mixing multiple cleaners can also lead to an explosion. It’s better to use a drain snake, plunger, or auger.

An Ounce of Prevention

Our professional plumbers at Barner Murphy strongly suggest taking steps to prevent clogs so you don’t have to resort to dangerous and potentially damaging chemical drain cleaners. First, your pipes cannot handle rice, pasta, coffee grounds, eggshells, or produce. 

And of course, keep grease out too. In the bathroom, use hair catchers and clean them regularly. They catch a lot of the things that could cause a clog before it starts. If you accidentally have grease go down the sink, follow it with two tablespoons of baking soda and white vinegar. 

Pros to the Rescue!

Inevitably, there will be times when you can’t DIY a stubborn clog. Give Barner Murphy a call at 215-945-8560. You can send us questions through our online contact form, too. We serve Bucks and Montgomery County, PA, and guarantee quality work every time.