To save money, you might be tempted to use store-bought liquids and powders to clear clogged drains instead of hiring a plumber. However, reaching out for help could save money down the line. The harsh chemicals in commercial products wreak havoc on pipes, resulting in the need for extensive, costly repairs. To stress the importance of leaving drain clearing to professionals, here’s a closer look at how chemicals damage your plumbing system. 

Why Chemical Drain Cleaners Should Be Avoided   

Chemicals Burn Through Pipes  

Caustic drain cleaners are often used to dissolve hard-to-remove, grease-based clogs. One of the main ingredients is lye. The chemicals it contains produce heat that breaks down the gunk. Unfortunately, the heat also burns through metal, corroding a pipe’s interior lining. The hot conditions can also warp the plastic of PVC piping.  

Products Could Cause Property Damage

If there are corroded or broken pipes in your plumbing system, using chemicals to clear clogged drains will cause even more headaches. When chemicals are flushed through rusty or punctured pipes, they eat through already vulnerable areas, creating large holes. This increases the risk of water leaks, which could stain walls and floors. Mold can also grow quickly on saturated surfaces, putting your family’s health in jeopardy. 

Future Clogs Are Likely

Even when chemical solutions clear clogged drains, product residue is left behind in pipes. The sticky coating attracts food particles, grease, and other substances, creating additional clogs. The chemicals can also get into the septic tank, destroying the bacteria needed to break down waste. When the waste can’t be broken down, it can’t pass on to the drain field for additional treatment. This leaves no room in the tank to accept additional waste, which means the sewage could reverse direction, clogging drains or causing sewage backups inside the house. 

To clear clogged drains without causing irreversible damage to your plumbing system, reach out to the experienced technicians at Bohannon’s Plumbing & General Repairs in Thomasville, NC. They will use drain snakes, water-jetting equipment, and additional solutions to dislodge blockages and force the debris out of pipes. To prevent future concerns, they’ll also let you know what materials cause drain clogs. To schedule a free service estimate in High Point or Davidson County, call (336) 561-9444. Visit the team’s website to see what plumbing fixtures they service and become a Facebook follower to start an online chat.