Most plumbers understand how dangerous using chemical Shower Drain Cleaner products can be. Unfortunately, this isn’t something that many homeowners are aware of. As a result, they continue using these products, causing potentially irreversible damage to their drain and pipes. Learning more about the dangers of these products can help homeowners understand why they should be avoided.
Possible Toxicity of Drain Cleaners
The chemicals found in commercial drain cleaners, especially the inexpensive, off-brand ones, have high toxicity levels. Not only are the fumes unhealthy to inhale, but they can also irritate the user’s eyes and nose. Even after the chemical has gone down the drain, the fumes linger, causing serious issues.
Damage to the Pipes
While Shower Drain Cleaner chemicals claim to “clean” the pipes as they move through them, the chemicals can actually cause serious damage. The main chemical in these cleaning solutions is hydrochloric acid. This is not only going to gnaw at the pipes as it sits inside, it can also damage the finishes on surfaces in the bathroom or kitchen.
Bad for the Plumbing and Environment
The chemicals found in drain cleaners aren’t good for the environment. The residue that is left in the containers will wind up in landfills. When this happens, the chemicals may seep into the water, poisoning fish, plants, and other wildlife.
They May Not Work
In some cases, drains back up because of a problem in the sewer line or because of broken pipes. Dumping potentially toxic chemicals into the pipes when these types of problems are present won’t help. As a result, the problem is going to remain, and the homeowner will have exposed themselves and others to toxic fumes.
If a person needs to have their shower drain cleaned or cleared, the best course of action is to contact a professional plumber. They will be able to evaluate the problem and find the underlying cause. Additionally, plumbers will have the tools and resources to clean the drain without having to resort to the use of toxic chemicals. More information about cleaning a shower drain can be found by visiting the website. You can connect with them on Facebook for more updates!
