The Risks of Using Drano

When you have a clogged sink or shower pipe, your first thought may be to run to your local store to pick up a bottle of Drano. This household cleaner comes in multiple forms, and it is made with various mixtures of sodium hydroxide, sodium hypochlorate, sodium nitrate, sodium chloride, and aluminum. Several chemical reactions occur at one time in order to get rid of clogs. While many households rely on Drano to get rid of their unexpected clogs, our plumber in Highland Park does not recommend it. Here’s why:

It Can Damage Your Plumbing System

Drano will sit inside of your pipe until the clog dissolves, meaning it is constantly reacting and generating heat. This can lead to old pipes or toilet bowls to suffer from damage. It can also chip away at the glue that holds the pipes together.

It Can be Unpredictable

If Drano unexpectedly splashes up and hits you, it can burn and damage your skin or eyes. Plus, if there is excess Drano in your drain and you use a chemical cleaning product soon after, it may cause a toxic reaction that creates fumes. It is best to avoid using Drano because you don’t know what chemical reactions may occur as a result.

It’s Toxic to Humans

Because Drano is made from so many different chemicals, it’s no surprise that it can be dangerous to humans if it is touched or ingested. It will burn your skin or your eyes. At the very extreme, Drano can even have a negative impact on your lungs.

While Drano may seem like a good idea in the moment, it is best to call a professional plumber in Highland Park to ensure your repair will be done safely and efficiently. Plus, doing so will eliminate the problem completely so that you don’t have to keep suffering from clogged drains.