Keeping drains free of clogs and debris prevents overflowing toilets, slow-draining sinks, or the intrusion of foul-smelling gases. Regular drain cleaning also saves money on more costly repair services.
FMD spoke to manufacturers specializing in drain cleaning equipment about common mistakes technicians can make and how to avoid them. Contact Drain Cleaning Perth now!
Chemical drain cleaners come in liquid, flakes, or powder form and are widely available at stores. These cleaners are designed to work on clogs by creating a reaction that either heats or oxidizes the materials in the clogged pipe. These cleaners are generally easy to use and clear the most common impediments such as hair, grease, and food. However, they can harm the environment and human health if not used properly. They also can cause damage to pipes if they are used too often or on older, plastic pipes.
There are many different types of chemical drain cleaners on the market, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Caustic drain cleaners, for example, contain substances like lye or caustic potash that give off hydroxide ions that create a reaction that melts and dissolves grease. These chemicals are generally heavier than water, so they can sink through standing water and reach the clog within the pipe. Oxidizing drain cleaners, on the other hand, are composed of household bleaches, peroxides and nitrates that generate heat and oxidize organic material in the clog to break it down.
Both types of chemical drain cleaners are generally safe if used according to the instructions on the label. However, they can be harmful to eyes and skin if splashed, and they can also corrode or warp pipes. If you choose to use a chemical drain cleaner, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and wear rubber gloves. If you are unsure whether or not a specific chemical cleaner is safe for your pipes, consult a plumber.
Another problem with chemical drain cleaners is that they may not be effective on severe clogs. If the clog is caused by a damaged pipe or an overgrowing tree root, it may take more than a chemical cleaner to resolve it. If you have a stubborn clog, try using a plunger or auger before resorting to chemical cleaners.
Oxidizing Drain Cleaners
Chemical drain cleaners work through a series of powerful chemical reactions to donate or withdraw electrons from the substances that make up a clog. This process generates heat, which melts grease and soap scum or allows water to flow more easily through the pipe. However, this type of drain cleaner can damage pipes over time if used frequently or if the wrong product is selected for the job.
Many chemical cleaners are easy to use, simply pouring the solution down a drain and waiting for it to do its work. However, this simplicity hides the potential risks of these products to your pipes and your health. Most chemical drain cleaners require careful handling to avoid spills and vapors, and they can be toxic if not properly used or disposed of. The directions for usage of these products are typically found on the back or pack, and it is recommended that safety gear like goggles and masks be used if possible to protect your skin, eyes and lungs.
Some chemical drain cleaners are formulated to be safe for residential pipes, while others are designed for commercial or industrial use. There are also natural drain cleaners available that don’t rely on chemical reactions to break down a clog.
All drain cleaners have their own specific way of working to clear a blocked drain. Oxidizing drain cleaners, for example, contain household bleach or peroxides that react with the organic materials in a clog to break them down and release gas and heat to remove the obstruction. Other types of chemical drain cleaners may include acids or caustic soda to dissolve rust, metal debris and other hard-to-break down material.
Biological drain cleaners use bacteria and enzymes to decompose organic waste, making them safer for residential pipes than traditional chemical cleaners. These drain cleaners usually have a liquid or gel consistency and can be purchased at most hardware stores or big box retailers. They come with directions for usage similar to other drain cleaners: pour down the drain while holding the bottle upside down and flush with plenty of hot water. Some biological drain cleaners even come with a pre-mixed strain of bacteria that is designed to specifically target and digest hair, food particles, grease and other common causes of a blocked drain.
Plumber’s Snake
If you have a serious drain clog that’s not responding to any other type of drain cleaner, try a plumber’s snake. Also known as a drain auger, this tool is basically a long, flexible metal cable with an auger (like an uncoiled spring, corkscrew or drill bit) at one end and a handle on the other. When you push the snake into your sink’s drain opening, it begins to uncoil and travel down the pipes until it encounters the clog. You’ll need to apply some pressure to get the snake to bend around the tight curve in the trap under your sink, and it may be helpful to have a pair of needle-nose pliers nearby to help you if needed.
If your clog is especially stubborn, you may want to remove the snake from the drain and try again later. If you can’t locate the clog, or if it appears that the clog has moved to a different part of the pipe, you may want to try pushing the snake up and down or side to side. Sometimes, moving the snake up and down or side to side causes the clog to break up or dislodge. You’ll know if you’re successful because the water should begin flowing freely again.
Before using your snake, make sure to turn off the water supply valve. This will prevent you from accidentally flooding your home if the drain snake gets stuck in the pipe. It’s also a good idea to wear rubber gloves and safety goggles, as this job can be messy and dangerous.
Start by removing the P-trap (the bent piece of pipe that sits right below your sink) to give yourself the best access to the drainpipe. Next, manually thread the snake’s head into either the drain itself or an access point on your wall if you didn’t remove the trap. It’s important not to push the snake too hard into the pipe, as this could damage the drain entrance or the pipe itself. Once you’ve pushed the snake into the clog, start rotating it to chop up and dislodge it.
Enviro-Master’s Drain Treatment
Drain clogs are inevitable, but you can minimize the problem by detecting and attending to them early. Observing the water flow of all your drains regularly is the best way to detect any signs of trouble. Look for a slow drainage, or one that suddenly stops flowing entirely. This is a sign that there is a blockage in the line. The clog may be caused by hair, food, soap scum, or tree roots. If the clog is left unattended, it could lead to major plumbing issues that require expensive repairs or replacements.
Using the wrong chemical drain cleaner can also be harmful to your health. The caustic substances in most store-bought drain cleaners are incredibly toxic and can cause severe burns, allergic skin reactions, and loss of vision. Many of these chemicals are also corrosive and can damage your pipes. If you use these products, be sure to wear gloves and eye protection.
The best drain cleaner is a biological or enzymatic solution. This is safer for your drain lines, the environment, and your pipes. It also eliminates odors and breaks down organic material like grease and garbage disposal waste. Regularly pouring a septic-safe drain cleaner into your drains is a good preventative measure to keep them healthy.
Choosing the right drain cleaner is crucial for your business. A clogged drain can cause unpleasant customer experiences and lost revenue. It can also lead to a health code violation. Investing in a professional drain cleaning service can ensure that your drains remain clear and operational, so you can avoid costly repair or replacement costs.
For more information about the best drain cleaners, contact the team at Enviro-Master. They offer a variety of sanitation and disinfecting services including commercial restroom cleaning, drain treatment, paper management, and the hospital-grade Virus Vaporizer. Their services protect businesses and their guests, and they have a proven track record of success. Founded in 2009, they serve a range of industries including schools and daycares, gyms, healthcare facilities, manufacturing sites, and offices. They are headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina.