Still Using Chemical Drain Cleaners? Here's Why You Should Stop
Over-the-counter chemical drain cleaners can often seem like a quick, easy, and cheap fix. In most cases, all you need to do is run down to your local big box store and pour a miracle fluid down your drains. Unfortunately, these drain cleaners aren't always the miracle workers they appear to be. Using the wrong cleaner can even potentially make your situation much worse.
While chemical drain cleaners do have their place, you shouldn't rely on them as a fix-all solution or use them more than necessary. If you're still unconvinced, consider these three reasons why working with a professional drain cleaner is almost always a much better solution.
1. Your Pipes Will Thank You
Drain cleaners use many formulas, and the exact ingredients vary between manufacturers. Generally, there are two approaches: caustic (base) chemicals or acids. Both approaches attempt to destructively break down organic clogs in your drains, destroying and loosening clogs, waste, paper, and other objects that can clog up your home's plumbing.
However, this approach can also cause significant damage to your plumbing, especially if your home has older pipes. While using cleaners now and then probably won't cause much harm, frequent use can cause damage. Professional plumbers perform drain cleaning using snakes, hydro jets, and other much gentler and safer methods for your plumbing.
2. You'll Save Money
Are chemical cleaners cheaper than hiring a professional? The answer, of course, depends. While a bottle of a chemical solution might cost less than a visit from a plumber, you won't save money if you don't resolve the problem. An unaddressed clog can become an expensive problem for numerous reasons, including future water damage resulting from a backup.
A chemical cleaner might clear enough of a clog to get your drains running but not enough to stop the drain from clogging again. Failing to address the whole problem will be much more expensive as you deal with repeated clogs, overflowing drains or toilets, or even damage to your plumbing. A professional will find the underlying reason for the clog and remove it permanently.
3. You'll Have Peace of Mind
Flushing a chemical cleaner down your drains can provide momentary relief, but you'll never know if you've dealt with the entire clog. Even worse, you won't know if your plumbing has a more severe problem. A partially collapsed sewer line or root intrusion can sometimes masquerade as a simple clog until your drains become unusable.
Professional drain cleaners often use inspection equipment, including sewer line cameras, to locate the source of the clog. These inspections can reveal other issues with your plumbing, allowing you to see if you need to consider a more substantial repair. If not, you'll have confidence that your plumbing is in good condition and that the clog won't return.
For more information on drain cleaning, contact a professional near you.