Should I use drain cleaning solutions to unclog my drain?
When a drain becomes clogged and unusable, the natural response is to seek out a solution with quick results. While chemical drain cleaning solutions may seem like a logical choice, they actually cause much more harm than good.
As with any liquid that comes in contact with a hard surface, there is always the potential for splash back, especially if the liquid is poured quickly. With lye being one of the main ingredients in chemical drain cleaners, you are putting yourself at risk for being splashed with it, which can lead to severe chemical burns. The fumes alone can have an adverse effect on your upper respiratory tract.
In order for a drain cleaning solution to properly dissolve clogs, you are not allowed to turn your water faucet on for at least 30 minutes. This means that any residual liquid that sits around the opening of your drain is exposed to pets, small children and anyone else that comes in contact with it. Even in microscopic amounts, if the solution is accidentally ingested, it can cause severe vomiting and abdominal pain.
At first glance, your drains may look strong and virtually indestructible; however, due to the corrosive nature of chemical drain cleaning solutions and the fact that they leave a sticky residue behind, drains can easily develop small holes and fractures as a direct result. If you happen to have older pipes that are already in a weakened state, it is especially wise to avoid liquid drain cleaners.
At the first sign of a slowed drain, it’s important to seek out a long-term solution rather than a short-term one. A professional plumber has all the tools and experience needed to turn a nasty clogged drain into a clean, functional piece of plumbing. Hydro jetting is fast becoming one of the most popular and effective forms of professional drain cleaning all over the United States. With this method, high-speed, reverse water jets are used to flush out all traces of dirt, grease and sediment at the impressive rate of 1,500 to 4,000 pounds per minute. Your drains will be free of harmful fumes and sparkling clean.
Dealing with a bothersome clog in your Berkeley home? Call Albert Nahman Plumbing today at (510) 876-9725 for immediate solutions!
