One day, you’ll come across a situation that will make you wonder, "Is Drano safe to use?" Drano is one of the most popular go-to solutions for kitchen and bathroom sink clogs. Not all plumbers and specialists think it’s the best solution for getting things unstuck from your drains, however. Here’s some information about using Drano and why it might not be your best option.
What Is Drano?
Drano is a product Johnson and Johnson developed to assist people with cleaning their pipes. The manufacturers understood that pipes would become overwhelmed by food particles, hair, and debris that got caught up in the system as people washed dishes, took showers, and even used the bathroom facilities.
Drano primarily consists of lye and other abrasive ingredients. The purpose of the product is to literally "eat away" at anything in the pipes where the user pours it.
How Does Drano Work?
Drano is very easy to use. The individual using it simply pours the liquid down the problem drain and waits for the solution to burn away the obstruction. Eventually, the chemicals dislodge the clog, and the user can rinse the drain and operate as usual.
Why Plumbers Don’t Like Drano and Similar Products
Plumbers mostly advise people not to use Drano and such products. They speak against those products for several reasons. One reason they may not appreciate Drano is its wear on the pipes.
The abrasive materials sit in the pipes and cause a bit of destruction to them, making them weaker as time passes. Eventually, those pipes can develop holes and imperfections. In severe cases, the ingredients in Drano can cause the pipes to crack or break, which can lead to leaks within the system.
Drano can also be detrimental to the environment. It may work to clear clogs from a sink or toilet, but its elements can also seep into the sewage system and eventually affect the plants and animals outside.
How To Unclog a Drain Without Chemicals
There are some safer methods people can use if they want to clean out clogs from hair and debris. One way is to use something such as a hanger or a picking tool to break up the clog without putting any harmful materials in the system. Another way to clear away clogs is to grab some tools and try to remove the cover and get the clog out with gloved hands. This method is more effective in shower and bath drains, as some of them are easily accessible.
When all else fails, a homeowner can contact a reliable plumber to visit their home or office. These professionals have specialized equipment to snake drains or lift clogs from the pipes without harming them. Drain cleaning can usually be done quickly and efficiently in a way that will not cause the pipes or the environment to suffer.
If you’re having an issue with your drains, you can contact a local plumber who has been in the business for a significant period. Ask about estimates for drain cleaning so you’ll know the expense for safe and effective clog removal.