They can become dangerously hot when mixed with water.
Many chemical drain cleaners contain sulfuric acid, which heats up to extreme temperatures when it reacts with water. This intense heat can cause severe burns, potentially requiring medical attention.
They release toxic fumes that are harmful to your health.
It’s well-known that corrosive drain cleaners contain harmful chemicals, but you don’t have to touch or ingest them to be affected. Simply inhaling the fumes released by these cleaners can cause damage to your teeth and irritate your respiratory system.
They emit harmful VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds).
When using liquid drain cleaners, you’re also exposed to VOCs—harmful gases released by certain chemicals. VOCs are found in various household products, including cleaners, pesticides, paints, and adhesives. Long-term exposure to these compounds can lead to numerous health issues, including:
- Headaches
- Skin reactions
- Eye, nose, and throat irritation
- Nausea, dizziness, and impaired coordination
- Damage to the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system
They can weaken your pipes and lead to leaks.
Chemical drain cleaners work by using reactions that either melt or burn through clogs. While this can clear a blockage, it can also weaken your pipes, especially with repeated use. The corrosive effects of these cleaners can cause your pipes to become brittle and susceptible to cracks or leaks over time.
They’re not effective on deep blockages.
Your plumbing system is extensive, and when a clog forms deep in the pipes, liquid drain cleaners are unlikely to fix the problem. At this point, using such cleaners is essentially wasting money, as they won’t remove the blockage, could damage your plumbing, and will likely require additional, more costly solutions.
About Paradigm Plumbing
When considering a professional plumber, call the experts at Paradigm Plumbing. From water heaters to filtration systems, and all of your plumbing needs, the experts at Paradigm Plumbing are here to help you. They are a licensed and insured plumbing service company that has been serving residential and commercial customers throughout Palm Beach County since 2001. For more information, call (561) 841-9008.
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