Chemical drain cleaners can accomplish a variety of tasks but only if you have the right one for the job. Knowing which type of drain cleaner you require will help you address any plumbing problem correctly the first time, avoiding the need for multiple treatments or attempted repairs. Chemical drain cleaners are available in four main types: alkaline, acidic, enzyme, and copper root repellent.
Alkaline
Alkaline chemical drain cleaners are what you will find on most supermarket shelves. They do not require dilution and are normally poured directly down the drain. They typically have one of three active ingredients to help resolve a clog: copper sulfide, sodium hydroxide, or sodium hypochloride. These drain cleaners will only help remove the most superficial of clogs, such as excess hair or grease in the pipes. For anything else, alkaline cleaners are largely ineffective.
Acidic
Acidic chemical drain cleaners are far more powerful and inspire more safety concerns than alkaline products. Although acidic chemical cleaners can often remove almost any clog, they can also do damage to the plumbing itself. Normally acidic drain cleaners contain sulfuric acid or hydrochloric acid. Hydrochloric acid can damage porcelain, metal, and almost any other material when used incorrectly. Sulfuric acid is slightly less damaging to metal plumbing, but can still damage aluminum, stainless steel, and porcelain. These chemical cleaners should be used as a last result and by a professional. If you insist on using acidic cleaners to dissolve a clot yourself, carefully follow all safety instructions to avoid dangerous chemical burns.
Enzyme
Enzyme chemical drain cleaners have become more popular as a more environmentally conscious way of caring for a plumbing system. However, these chemical drain cleaners are best used as a preventative measure, not as a means of eliminating a clot. If you attempt to remove a clot with an enzyme product, be prepared to wait at least 24 hours for it to work. Of course, you can avoid the chance of clots if you use enzyme chemical drain cleaners twice a year to remove any buildup in your pipes.
Copper root repellent
This specialized type of drain cleaner is used to prevent roots from damaging your plumbing system. Copper repels roots and many plumbers used to wrap pipes with copper wire to prevent trees from damaging the plumbing. Now homeowners with trees in their yards can use a copper root repellent as a way of protecting their plumbing. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using this product for maximum efficiency and keep in mind that you should plan on treating your pipes with copper root repellent at least twice a year.
Now that you know what chemical drain cleaner is best for your particular problem, you should be able to choose a product that will fix any issue the first time. However, if your plumbing problem is not resolved after a single treatment, you should use mechanical means, or call a plumber, to fix any lasting problems.
