How Can I Clear a Stubborn Clog?

5/27/2020 (Permalink)

Types Of Cleaners

Sometimes the reason for a clogged drain is a mystery. The use of any drain cleaner should be a last resort after failed attempts at manual approaches such as plunging. If you must use chemicals, determine the type and seriousness of the clog. Then, choose one of the following types of cleaners:

1. Enzymatic
Enzymatic drain cleaners contain bacteria that produce clog-feeding enzymes. They’re intended to clear and prevent soft clogs (e.g., paper or hair) and may take up to 24 hours. These cleaners definitely won’t clear a solid clog (e.g., grease). However, they are harmless to all pipes. You’re also safe to use them without protective gear.

2. Caustic
Caustic drain cleaners use alkaline chemicals to transform a clog into a material that’s dissolvable in water, making it easy to wash the contents down the drain. These cleaners are great for dissolving grease, food, and soap scum; this type of clogged drain can typically be cleared within 30 minutes. Newer plastic, copper, or stainless steel pipes are usually fine with these cleaners. However, plastic pipes over 20 years old can be softened by them. Metal pipes of aluminum chrome, galvanized steel, and brass can be corroded. Safety glasses, chemical-resistant gloves and a respirator are recommended for use with caustic cleaners; they can be irritating to the eyes, skin and respiratory system.

3. Acidic
Acidic cleaners are the most powerful and fastest-acting. Just about any variety of clog can usually be cleared within 15 minutes. An acidic cleaner might be needed for sewage cleaning if other options have failed to release the clog. These cleaners are highly toxic and corrosive, so they should be the last thing you try for a stubborn clog. Plastic pipes under 20 years old and copper pipes are usually fine using these cleaners, but older pipes have a high probability of corrosion. Safety glasses, chemical-resistant gloves, and a respirator are required when using these cleaners.
If your Noble, OK, home experiences damage from a clogged drain, restoration professionals can help. They’ll return your home to its preloss condition as quickly as possible.