You probably remember the periodic table from your younger years. Although you likely see many of the chemicals from this table in your everyday life, such as salt — or NaCl — it’s important to keep these chemicals out of your drain. Everything from soap, grease, hair, and leftover food can pose a danger to your plumbing. Before you call a licensed plumber near you, there are a few things you can do to minimize drain problems.
Take a look at some of our Roto-Rooter tips below.
Understand Drain Cleaners
Drain cleaners are simple fixes for your drain and they can be tempting. But it’s important to understand that most of them use sodium hydroxide — also known as lye or caustic soda — or sulfuric acid. Both chemicals are highly corrosive to metal and organic materials, which create reactions that clear the clog. And since these cleaners are heavier than water, they sink through any water that is bound to the clog.
Other chemicals used in cleaners are:
- Peroxides
- Nitrates
- Bleach
Using Chemical Drain Cleaners
Although chemical drain cleaners are typically effective, they can also soften PVC pipes and eat away at older metal pipes. These cleaners are also corrosive to the skin and are dangerous when inhaled. Finally, although these cleaners can be a quick fix, they can hide the deeper underlying problems with your plumbing. In many cases, a clogged drain is a symptom of a more serious issue, so calling a licensed plumber near you is crucial.
Chemical-Free Drain Clearing
If you want to unclog your drain without chemical cleaners, try these natural alternatives:
- Pour boiling water down the drain followed by cold water (avoid doing so in toilets as hot water will crack the porcelain).
- Treat the clog with half a cup of baking soda followed by half a cup of vinegar and let it sit overnight.
If these tricks don’t work, it’s time to call a plumber. When chemical or natural unclogging methods don’t do the trick, don’t worry: a professional plumber can diagnose the problem, fix it, and provide you with advice on how to prevent a clog from happening in the future.
If you’re in the Victorville, Hesperia or Apple Valley area looking for a plumber near you, our Roto-Rooter team can help. Contact us today at 760-245-2947 for more information or to request our services.
