Food residue, hair, soap scum, oil, and grease can cause clogged household drains. While store-bought, liquid plumbing products seem like an effective, inexpensive solution, they can have adverse effects. Here are a few reasons why it’s best to schedule professional drain cleaning instead of using chemicals.

Why Should I Avoid Liquid Plumbing Products?

1. Contain Toxic Ingredients

Liquid drain cleaners are made of sulfuric and hydrochloric acid as well as sodium hydroxide and other chemical ingredients that can irritate your eyes, nose, and throat. These products can also burn your skin upon contact and decrease indoor air quality if they linger in drains too long.

2. Damage Pipes

The harsh chemicals in liquid plumbing products, like hydrochloric acid, can corrode pipes and damage the finish and protective enamel. Frequent use will lead to cracks and leaks in the piping system, resulting in expensive repairs. Leaks that continue unchecked promote mold and mildew growth as well as structural rot.

3. Harm the Environment

Toxic chemical products drain into local waterways and lower the water quality and poison nearby wildlife. Additionally, empty drain cleaner bottles with chemical residue end up in landfills and will pollute the soil.

4. Aren’t Effective

Although chemical cleaners claim to clear a blockage, they do little to dislodge major clogs and can easily back up into your drains, causing you and your family to breathe their fumes. Request professional plumbing services to snake the pipe, and use drain covers to trap hair, food, and soap to prevent future issues.

 

If you have a stubborn clog in your home, contact the team at Paradise Plumbing in Haleiwa, HI. For over 15 years, these licensed contractors have offered Oahu residents effective solutions to everyday plumbing problems, such as clogged drains. View their complete list of services online, or call (808) 368-1473 to schedule an appointment.