Why You Shouldn’t Use Chemical Drain Cleaners at Home
When faced with a clogged sink or shower, it’s tempting to grab a chemical drain cleaner from the supermarket. However, these products are not only dangerous for your health but also for your plumbing system and the environment. In this article, Hydro Therm’s experts explain why it’s best to avoid these aggressive solutions.
1. Health risks
Chemical cleaners often contain caustic soda, sulfuric acid, or other corrosive agents. Skin or eye contact can cause severe burns. Inhaling the vapors can irritate the respiratory system, especially in confined spaces like bathrooms.
A simple mistake or mixing with another product (bleach, vinegar…) can create toxic chemical reactions (chlorine gas, irritant vapors, etc.).
2. Damage to your plumbing
Chemical products don’t distinguish between a clog and your pipes. When used repeatedly or in case of a deep blockage, the cleaner can sit in the pipes and:
- damage seals or PVC pipes,
- corrode older metal pipes,
- make things worse if the clog hardens around the chemical.
3. Serious environmental impact
Chemical drain cleaners flow into the sewer system and treatment plants. Poorly degraded, they may contaminate groundwater and harm aquatic life. Their use is strongly discouraged from an ecological standpoint.
What are the safe alternatives for unblocking a sink or drain?
Fortunately, there are safer and simpler options:
- Baking soda + white vinegar: natural and effective for light clogs.
- Plunger or manual drain snake: mechanical methods you can easily use at home.
- Calling a professional: for deep or recurring blockages, a specialist with proper equipment (high-pressure pump, camera inspection) is the best choice.
Need safe drain unblocking in Brussels?
At Hydro Therm, we respond within the hour in Brussels and across Flemish and Walloon Brabant to unblock your drains safely – without toxic chemicals. We use professional techniques that protect your plumbing and the environment.
