Drain Cleaning: Dangers of Chemical Drain Cleaning Solutions

Common Chemicals Used in Drain Cleaners

Many homeowners make the mistake of using chemical drain cleaning products to clear clogs in their pipes. The two most common types of chemical drain cleaners are alkaline based products and acid based products.

Alkaline based drain cleaners contain a mixture of sodium hydroxide, commonly known as Lye, and sodium hypochlorite, commonly known as bleach. Acid based drain cleaners contain Sulfuric Acid. Both types of drain cleaners present safety hazards to the operator, but with precautions can be used safely and effectively.

Dangers of Alkaline Drain Cleaners

Alkaline based drain cleaning products are safe if used properly, but improper use can lead to severe injury to the eyes or skin. The chemicals in this type of drain cleaner can cause severe chemical burns to exposed skin, and especially the sensitive tissue of your eyes. If the pipe leaks, there is also the issue of contaminating the area of the leakage when chemical cleaners are used.

Some Alkaline based drain cleaners are designed to rapidly heat up and boil when poured into a clogged drain, which is very effective for clearing blockage but increases the risk of injury with improper usage of the product. Avoid breathing in fumes when using drain cleaning products, as they can easily burn the lungs and cause severe internal injuries. The precautions for using drain cleaners, either acidic or alkaline, are nearly the same and should be followed strictly.

Risks of Acidic Drain Cleaners

Acid based drain cleaners are not as available to the general public as Alkaline based drain cleaners. The acid most commonly used, sulfuric acid, is at a high enough concentration that direct contact can melt or burn fabric, let alone skin. When using any drain cleaner, especially an acid based drain cleaner, it is important to wear gloves and proper eye-wear.

If a buffered solution is not available and injuries are sustained from sulfuric acid, rinse the affected area thoroughly with water to remove any remaining acid from the injury. Visit an emergency room as soon as possible, and do not scrub the afflicted region as it may cause more damage to the tissue.

Are the pipes clogged up in your New Port Richey home? If you're having trouble, give Roman Plumbing a call at (727) 858-3412, so we can get down to the root of the problem.