Liquid drain cleaners may seem like a bargain, but they are not. The chemicals in liquid drain cleaners, particularly the bargain brands have a high toxicity level. The main chemical in these solutions is hydrochloric acid. which will erode pipes as it sits in them. It can also erode the enamel on expensive fixtures in your kitchen and bathroom if the chemical gets on them.
Most times these chemicals don’t even work and are very caustic for the environment. The fumes are dangerous to inhale and linger long after the product goes down the drain. Drains usually back up because something has gone into it that causes the clog, a broken pipe or trouble in the sewer line. Pouring liquid drain cleaner in the drain generally will not “eat” through the clog and it can sit in the drain line doing damage.
If you do use liquid drain cleaners and it does not get rid of the clog, you should call your plumber. When you call the plumber, let him/her know what you poured in the drain as these chemicals are very caustic and could splash on the plumber’s eyes, skin or clothes. De Hart Plumbing, Heating and Cooling, serving Manhattan Kansas, Junction City Kansas, Wamego Kansas and some surrounding areas.
