The Maynard Man Answers “Why Should You Avoid Store-Bought Drain Cleaners?”

No matter what drainpipe we’re talking about, there is a
very good chance that at some point, you’ll deal with a clog. Whether it’s hair
in the bathroom, food particles in the kitchen, or waste backup in the sewer
line, your plumbing is naturally susceptible.

Of course, you can help prevent drain clogs in your home! But,
it’s not by using store-bought, liquid drain cleaner.

Avoiding Chemical Store-Bought Drain Cleaners

Homeowners often don’t realize what the problem is with
store-bought drain cleaning chemicals. After all, isn’t that the easiest way to
unclog drains? Actually, they don’t even really work effectively. This is
because the chemicals in these drain cleaners are formulated to dissolve only
the most minor of clogs—like hair.

They have no impact on other common blockages such as
mineral buildup that comes from hard water, grease, or food particles.
Chemical, liquid drain cleaner might not to anything except push the clog
further down the drainpipe.

It sounds like since chemical drain cleaners don’t do much,
they’re pretty benign, right? Not quite! They are toxic, and caustic. Not only
can they harm your health and safety, but also the health of your plumbing
system. Chemical drain cleaner eats away at the lining of your pipes until
eventually you’re dealing with corrosion and leaks.

“Are There Any Safe DIY Drain Cleaning Methods?”

Sure! If it’s not actually a clog in your drain, but you
have smelly drains, you could try a baking soda and vinegar mix to clean the
drain. Pour down about ½ cup baking soda mixed with a cup of vinegar, and give
it about 5 minutes before you flush the drain with hot water.

This is not the
solution for actual clogs, however. If it’s a superficial clog, you may be able
to relieve it with a plunger and a little bit of “elbow grease.” But if you
can’t relieve it this way, it’s time to call a pro. Our professionals have a
number of tools at our disposal, including:

  • Motorized
    Drain Augers:
    Professional-grade drain augers are motorized, which allows
    them to reach far down into your pipes and break up tough clogs.
  • Video
    Pipe Inspection:
    This allows us to get a close up look at your clog to
    determine what drain cleaning method will be the most effective.
  • Hydro-Jetting:
    Hydro-jetting involves the use of a long, thin hose to blast water into
    your pipes and clear away tough clogs, including the worst of grease and food
    particle build up and even tree roots in the sewer line.

For affordable drain cleaning in Nashville, TN, take advantage of our current promotion on any service call and schedule your appointment today.

Need a Helping Hand, Call the Maynard Man!

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