What Chemicals Are in Drain Cleaners?
Chemically based drain cleaners are used to clear clogs in drains or to prevent backup of pipes. They are convenient and readily available but can do damage to the pipes. There are four types of drain cleaners, all with different chemical compositions. Does this Spark an idea?
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Acids
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Drain cleaners with an acid base generally use hydrocholoric acid or sulfuric acid. The acid in the solution provokes a reaction between hydronium ions and the clog to create heat. The heat "melts" the clog enough to move it through the pipe, while the acid content also dissolves the components of the clogs. Acidic drain cleaners will burn skin if you accidentally touch the cleaner.
Oxidizers
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Oxidizing drain cleaners contain perchlorates, nitrates, hypochlorites, chlorates and peroxides. When the cleaner comes into contact with organic matter, it begins to break it down by the process of absorbing the clog's ions. The interaction between the cleaner and the clog creates heat that speeds along the absorption and removal of the clog.
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Caustics
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Caustic drain cleaners work in a similar fashion to acid drain cleaners, except they provoke a reaction with hydroxide ions. Caustic drain cleaners are alkaline, or "base." The chemical ingredients include sodium hydroxide, lye, sodium hypochlorite and aluminum.
Enzymatics
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Enzymatic drain cleaners aren't made with chemicals. They are based on biological components, such as bacterial cultures, that consume organic products. As such, they aren't as fast-acting as the other varieties of cleaners. Enzymatic cleaners also won't work against non-organic clogs. This type of cleaner is more commonly used in septic tanks but has become more popular for general use due to its lack of chemicals. Enzymatic drain cleaners can still burn the skin, so they must be used with caution.
Alternatives
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There are two alternatives to drain cleaners to remove clogs. The first is manual removal, by either removing a section of the pipe and clearing the drain, or by using a pipe snake (also called a drain auger). A pipe snake is a long, flexible line that you thread through the pipe to push out clogs. The other option is a homemade drain cleaner. Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by 1 cup of vinegar. Let that sit for 10 minutes before pouring 1 gallon of hot water down the drain. This recipe is particularly effective for preventing clogs and can be used weekly.
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