When your sink won’t drain or the tub is slow, it’s understandable to reach for a quick fix at the local store. There are plenty of over-the-counter drain cleaners that can remove clogs, but their success is often short-lived. Here’s why.
Store-Bought Drain Cleaners Are a Superficial Solution
Whenever you pour a drain cleaner down your pipes, it takes the path of least resistance. They can dissolve organic matter to improve drainage, but they often don’t eliminate full blockages.
The chemical opening can create enough space to make your drain work faster, but it won’t fix the underlying problem or fully remove any debris that’s caked along the pipe walls or stuck in the opening. When the existing blockage stays, it causes more buildup in the future, so you’ll find yourself reaching for drain cleaner again.
Harsh Chemicals Cause Pipe Corrosion
Plumbing is tough, but it can weaken extensively when you pour store-bought drain cleaners down it. The damage makes your pipes more vulnerable to leaks and bursts, especially if they continue to clog after DIY treatment.
Most over-the-counter cleaners target organic matter like soap, hair and food particles. They aren’t great at removing issues like grease, mineral deposits, toothpaste and cosmetic products.
The effectiveness of a cleaner varies from brand to brand, so you never really know if one is going to fix your issue. It all depends on the extent of the clog and what it’s made of. Most household blockages are a combination of materials that require professional removal to fully eliminate the issue and restore the drain’s function.
The Dilution Effect
Water acts as a buffer when it sits in your drain line. This can dilute the chemicals in the store-bought cleaner, making it less effective overall. Pouring more into the line won’t work since the water isn’t moving. You’ll waste products and still find your drains not flowing freely because the standing water is breaking down the formulation.
That’s why professional removal is a better option overall; it physically eliminates the blockages by pulling them out of the drain, rather than relying on chemical processes to break them down over time.
Temporary Fixes vs. Permanent Solutions
A store-bought drain cleaner may work in a pinch or in minor cases, but it doesn’t stand a chance against larger clogs. In fact, relying too much on drain cleaners only increases the risk of future damage and recurring issues.
If you want expert drain cleaning services from professionals who know your pipes inside and out, then contact Royal Services Plumbing in Brighton, CO!