There are a wide variety of chemicals on the market for consumers to do their own drain cleaning, skipping a call to the plumber and using inexpensive store-bought products instead. However, according to Joe Klosterman Plumbing, Inc., a top plumber in Cincinnati and the tri-state area, these chemicals are so harsh that they can easily cause harm to your plumbing system and even your body, costing you more money and causing health problems. Here, they outline the top dangers of drain cleaning chemicals so you can make an informed decision.

• Chemical Burns: Drain cleaning chemicals are extremely caustic, as they need to be strong enough to dissolve hair, grease, wads of toilet paper, and other common materials that clog drains. Because of this, if even a tiny droplet of the chemical gets onto your skin, it can cause a painful chemical burn that can even leave a permanent scar if it isn’t washed off quickly.
• Child Danger: Kids are naturally curious, and if they got into your bathroom closet and start playing with the drain cleaning chemicals, it could mean a rush to the emergency room. Drinking drain cleaner can be fatal, and in a world of hazards, this adds another huge one you’ll have to worry about.
• Pipe Damage: Since they are so strong, drain cleaners can eat away at old pipes. Even newer pipes can be damaged by the chemicals over time. They might dissolve the clog, but if they dissolve the pipe along with it, you’ll have to call the plumber to fix a much worse problem than the one you started with.

While liquid drain cleaners seem like a good way to save money, you and your plumbing will be safer if you call a professional plumber instead. Joe Klosterman Plumbing Inc. is one of the tri-state area’s best plumbing companies, family-operated and -owned since 1983. From drain cleaning to faucet and toilet repair, they’re ready to take your call at (513) 941-6766. You can also visit them online to learn more about their services and locations.