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When should I use a drain cleaner or unclogger?
Most drain uncloggers are designed for kitchen and bathroom sinks, showers and bathtub drains. They should not be used in toilets. If a drain has backed up and is full of water, you will need to wait until it's drained or emptied to add drain cleaner.
How do drain cleaners and uncloggers work?
Drain openers and uncloggers contain powerful chemicals that react with and dissolve organic matter like hair, grease, food scraps and other obstructions. Some drain cleaners use natural enzymes and bacteria, which dissolve blockages more slowly, but work well over time to maintain pipes.
Are drain cleaners bad for my pipes?
Some drain cleaners create a lot of heat when they react with clogs, which usually won't cause a problem for most types of pipes. The powerful chemicals used in drain cleaners can eat away at clogs, but also pipes, so it's best to use them sparingly. Drain cleaners typically indicate what types of household pipes they are safe for, and whether they are safe for septic systems. Drain cleaners can also damage surfaces like porcelain and ceramic, so you should be careful to only add it into the drain.
When should you not use drain cleaners?
If a clog isn't too bad or you can loosen it with a plunger or another plumbing tool, you should avoid using cleaners as they are a last-ditch solution. Never mix different types of drain cleaners, and never use them on blockages that aren't grease, hair, or organic, as some can react dangerously if other chemicals or materials are in the drain. Make sure to wear eye protection and gloves when handling drain cleaners.
