How To Clear a Clogged Drain Without Damaging Your Pipes

5/24/2022 (Permalink)

How to Unclog a Drain Without Causing Damage to Your Pipes

When you notice a clogged drain in your home in Longport, NJ, you want to clear it as quickly as possible. However, did you know that certain drain cleaning methods can cause permanent damage to your pipes? By understanding how different methods work and what alternatives there are for clearing out your pipes, you can help to protect your home and its intricate plumbing system.

Chemical Drain Cleaner
If you use a product that is chemically based, you may cause damage to your plumbing. Many liquid cleaners work by instigating an electron transfer process. As electrons are added to or taken away from organic substances stuck in your drain, heat energy is created. The heat breaks the clog down enough that it can then be flushed down the pipe with water.
There are three common types of chemical drain cleaners:

• Oxidizing
  
• Caustic
  
• Acid
  
  

Unfortunately, if you have grease, oils, or fats stuck in your clogged drain, the chemical cleaners may just cause the mass to move farther down the pipe. As well, over time, the heat caused by the chemical reaction can cause the pipes themselves to erode or become weaker.

Biological Agent
A biological agent uses nontoxic live enzymes or bacteria to eat away at the clog. This method works best on organic messes and can take around 24 hours to work, but it will not damage your pipes in the process.

Mechanical Drain Opener
The idea behind a mechanical drain opener is that the clog can be forced down the pipe without using heat energy or chemicals. A thrust of the plunger will send a burst of water, hopefully with enough force to dislodge what is stuck in your drain.
A drain auger works by making physical contact with the mass stuck in your pipe. When properly used, it should be able to dislodge most blockages without causing any damage. A professional sewage cleaning company can clear your drain in the safest and quickest way possible.
A clogged drain can interfere with your routine and quickly become a nuisance for everyone in the home. Choose the right way to clean the drain to preserve your plumbing.