You’ve probably heard mixed opinions about drain cleaners and their safety if you’re a homeowner, or someone who has experience with plumbing repairs.
Some people say that chemical cleaners can be used in moderation but others recommend you avoid them altogether. What do you do if you find a stubborn clog in your water supply?
Non-chemical methods to unclog a drain
There are other options available before you resort to drain cleaners.
- Make a mixture of vinegar and baking soda. Pour hot, but not boiling water down the drain. Mix equal amounts of vinegar and baking soda, about a cup each, and then pour the mixture down the drain. Cover the drain opening and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. Then, pour hot water into the drain.
- Use a traditional plunger. These plungers are great for clearing toilet clogs. To clear the blockage from your drain, you can use a standard plunger. To avoid cross-contamination, we recommend that you use a new, clean plunger when you are attempting to drain a sink.
- Install a drain snake. These snakes are inexpensive and can be used to clear minor clogs. To get your plumbing working freely, follow the instructions provided with the device.
If none of these options work, there are two options: Call a Long Beach plumber or use drain cleaners. We have some warnings before you go with the chemical option.
Drain cleaners can pose a risk
You could end up paying a lot more for a Long Beach professional Long Beach drain cleaning service than you paid. Toxic cleaners can lead to toilet bowl deterioration, metal pipes dissolving, and plastic pipes heating up and warping. Although it is unlikely that a single use will cause significant damage, you should still avoid this risk.
A safer option: bio drain cleaners
We recommend that you use bio drain cleaners to clear clogs from drains. Bio drain cleaners are safe for pets and humans. They can be purchased at hardware and home improvement stores at reasonable prices. Be aware that bio cleaners sold in stores may not be as powerful as those purchased from licensed Long Beach plumbers.
How do bio drain cleaners work?
Bio drain cleaners are designed to introduce engineered bacteria into your pipes and drains. This bacteria can dissolve organic material like hair, soap scum, and food residue.
The bio cleaner does not harm organic materials, as drains and pipes within plumbing systems are not made from organic material. After the bio drain cleaner has cleared the blockage, it will work through the rest to eliminate any future problems.
Start with a dry drain before you use a bio-drain cleaner. Let the cleaner work for several hours by pouring the appropriate amount down the drain. Most people prefer to leave the solution in place for several hours. To completely get rid of the clog, repeat the process as many times as you need.
To maintain your plumbing, you can also use bio drain cleaners. To keep your drains clean and free flowing, simply pour 1/2 cup of the bio cleaner in each month.