A clogged drain is one of the most common problems for homeowners. Whether it’s chunks of food that found their way past a drain strainer, or a shower that has been the victim of a long-haired resident one too many times, there are few things more annoying than the moment you realize that the water isn’t going anywhere.
For many, the first solution to a clogged drain that comes to mind is buying a chemical that will help destroy anything that’s stuck in the pipes. However, we would recommend caution before making that decision. While many clog-clearing chemical products insist that they’re safe for pipes, that usually means that they’re safe for certain types of pipes. In addition, if you have a septic tank, there’s a chance that a drain-clearing chemical can kill beneficial bacteria that should be breaking down waste. Or, the chemicals you’re introducing could have a reaction to other chemicals in your plumbing. Why not give a plunger or drain snake a thought before resorting to chemicals?
