Drain Cleaners. The Good, the Bad and the Just Don’t.

And more often than not, we end up using a chemical drain cleaner to take care of things. As we said, we’ve all been there. But at Dauenhauer, it’s our professional opinion that you stop that train of thought. Here’s why:

Don’t Use Chemical Drain Cleaners

We know you’re probably thinking we’re just saying this so you’ll call us. Well, of course, we’d like to hear from you, but there really is some legitimate rationale to our suggestion. Chemical drain cleaners clear a drain by dissolving the clog using caustic or oxidizing chemicals. These chemicals create a reaction to break down and loosen the clog.

But according to ConsumerReports.Org, most chemical drain cleaners are more trouble than they’re worth. Some react with aluminum and give off unhealthy gas, can solidify inside the pipes and can’t be removed, or mix with other household cleaners and cause the mixture to burst out of the drain. Liquid, foam and gel cleaners can also cause damage to pipes, and usually, aren’t as effective taking at least 30 minutes to eat through a clog.

And this is when the drain cleaner works. If the clog isn’t removed, now you have chemicals just sitting there, eating away at your pipes.

Do use a snake or plunger

The safest course of action is to use a snake or a plunger. But we advise, don’t use either of these methods if you’ve already tried a chemical drain cleaner. You could run the risk of splashing chemicals up onto your face or skin. If you have a clog that isn’t going anywhere, it may be time to call the most reliable plumber in Lexington. And that would be Dauenhauer.

If you have any questions or if you need help call Dauenhauer, any hour.