Drain Cleaners: Are They All Created Equal?

When your pipes start draining sluggishly, do you reach for a bottle of drain cleaner? Not all clogs are the same, and not all drain cleaners are, either—there are a variety of drain cleaners to choose from, and some are better suited than others for certain clogs or plumbing. Keep reading to discover how to choose the best product when you need a drain service in Flagstaff, AZ.

Chemical Drain Cleaners

Most people are familiar with chemical drain cleaners, which are largely available in stores.
Depending upon your needs, you can buy chemical drain cleaners in powder, liquid, or gel form. These cleaners are heavier than water, meaning they sink through standing water to work on tough clogs. Chemical cleaners work by generating heat, which helps to break up grease and other organic components of clogs to clear your pipes. There are three types of chemical drain cleaners available: acid, caustic, and oxidizing cleaners. Acid cleaners contain hydrochloric or sulfuric acid, powerful acids that pull electrons off the clog to generate heat. Oxidizing cleaners like bleach, nitrates, and peroxides also pull electrons away as a mechanism for heat generation.  Caustic drain cleaners, such as lye, transfer electrons to clogs instead of removing them, which also generates heat. It’s important to note that heat can melt PVC and some other types of piping, so if you’re not sure whether these cleaners are right for your home, consult a plumber. Chemical cleaners can also be heavily toxic and care should be taken when using them. Protect your skin and eyes from splashes, which can burn your eyes and eat right through clothing. They’re also not an ideal choice if you have a septic system because their toxicity can rid your septic tank of the good bacteria you need to process sewage.

Enzymatic Drain Cleaners

If you’re not thrilled with the idea of pouring a chemical cocktail down your drains, you have other options. Enzymatic drain cleaners are green cleaners that use microbes, like bacteria, or naturally occurring enzymes to naturally break down the mass that’s clogging your drain. These types of drain cleaners are safer than chemical cleaners and do not release toxic fumes or ruin your fixtures. They can also be a great choice if you have a septic system because the bacteria in the cleaner replenish the level of helpful microorganisms in your tank as they get flushed through the system. Most of these drain cleaners don’t need to be stored under any special conditions—they can withstand a larger range of heat and humidity than chemical cleaners and don’t require any preparation before you pour them down the drain. They also don’t generate heat because they work to unclog pipes as the bacteria eat away the organic matter, meaning they are safe for PVC. Enzymatic drain cleaners are available in some stores, or you can talk to your plumber about obtaining the right drain product for your Flagstaff home.

If you would like to learn more about our drain services in Flagstaff, check out the Mrs. Rooter blog for more tips. To get more information about professional plumbing services in Flagstaff or Yavapai, please read through the information on our website.