Plumber reveals the ‘problematic’ common cleaning product secretly corroding pipes

HOMEOWNERS looking to fix a clog by relying on a common category of cleaning products could be swapping the problem for a much larger one. Home improvement experts and professional plumbers say these “problematic” goods can wreak havoc on pipes, causing costly repairs. Homeowners dealing with clogged pipes will want to avoid one common product Credit: Getty Experts say that chemical drain cleaners can wreak more havoc on pipes than they’re worth Credit: Getty Chemical drain cleaners unclog pipes via the heat their chemical reactions create, which let them eat through hair, grease, and other materials. But this intended effect is exactly what makes them a “problematic” source of damage for pipes of any and all kinds, according to Allison McCarthy, owner of Zoom Drain Houston. Sign up for the Fabulous newsletter Thank you! “These formulas use caustic ingredients that create heat to dissolve clogs. “While that might seem effective, over time they can corrode your pipes, weakening metal and even certain types of plastic piping,” said McCarthy to MarthaStewart.com. Read More Home Cleaning Hacks “To prevent damage, always steer clear of using drain cleaners,” added Angie Hicks, co-founder of home improvement site Angi. The pair instead advised relying on either homemade natural cleaning solutions, or enzyme-based cleaners. A mixture of hot water, vinegar, and baking soda used for everyday maintenance will “bubble up and help clear out your drains, allowing your water flow to return to normal,” per Hicks. But for blockages calling for a more powerful product, enzyme-based treatments are a natural cleaner that’s safe for pipes while proving just as effective as chemical products. Most read in Lifestyle “They act like a probiotic for your plumbing, maintaining a clean, balanced system without the harsh reactions or heat that damage pipes. “Because these products contain no caustic chemicals, they’re safe for all plumbing materials and environmentally friendly,” said McCarthy. Regular use of these products can prevent blockages from forming in the first place, and keep pipes smelling clean. But for situations that even these products and a good maintenance routine can’t handle, it’s best to call in a professional plumber to avoid costly damage. “Professional service ensures that the entire system is properly cleared without damaging pipes,” said McCarthy. She added that constant enzyme-based maintenance after a professional cleaning is the best way to ensure serious blockages don’t form, keeping pipes safe and flowing freely. Comment now