You’ll learn: The type of clogs Drano can and cannot handle; How Drano works; How to use Drano to get the most out of it; And much more If the chemicals can’t clear a clog, they end up just sitting in pipes, eventually gnawing through them and causing more harm than good. It just isn’t worth the potential to damage your toilet and drain for the sake of convenience. Too many uses will lead to trouble. However, PVC pipes have a melting point of 176 degrees F. Pouring boiling water down a PVC pipe can soften the pipe. Drano . If you find yourself facing the same clog in the same place over and over again, avoid using Drano each time. How it does this is it sits in your drains and causes a chemical reaction to dissolve the nasty stuff. It’s such a handy product for DIY plumbers… However, it can be harmful to your pipes, and it doesn’t always work. Chemical drain cleaners are bad for the environment as well as septic systems. This can cause a lot of damage to the surrounding ecosystems and even our food supply. 3. In this review of Drano clog removers, I answer all of these questions and more. Be aware, however, there are other drain uncloggers on the market that could cause damage. Will it damage my pipes? According to The American Society of Home Inspectors, PVC pipe is only rated to 140 degrees F under pressure (see Resources section). Drano will work on sinks, bathtubs, and even shower drains. If you use Drano in a sink, it's going to take at least 24 hours before conditions are safe enough to use the sink again. For PVC pipes, it’s recommended to use a drain snake when possible. Drano or Liquid Plumber can even damage metal pipes in the long run. The principle chemical in commercial cleaning solutions is hydrochloric acid. But with all the glitz and glam, some homeowners are still asking the question, “Does drain cleaner damage pipes? Oftentimes, the method for clearing clogged drains will depend on the cause. I've used drano in my home and haven't had any problems. Finally, Drano is a hazard for those with small children and pets. If any of these things happen, you’re going to be left with an inoperable plumbing system and costly repairs. That can permanently damage the pipe by melting it. DRANO IS VERY DAMAGING TO ANY PIPES. At least, this is the case with older homes with galvanized iron and copper parts. This would be clogs caused by hair, grime, and other gunk that the solution can break up. Drano products are safe for plastic and metal pipes. In fact, if used incorrectly, it can do a lot of costly damage. PVC pipes cannot handle Drano due to the liquid-glass reaction. Not good. Advertisement Aside from their effect on pipes, there are other disadvantages to chemical drain cleaners. Herein, will Lye damage cast iron pipes? Also, you should never use chemical drain cleaners in completely blocked drains. Further Pipe Damage. In fact, Drano ® Max Gel Clog Remover contains a special ingredient that prevents pipe corrosion. A premium drain cleaner that cuts through standing water to remove clogs. A: Until it dries out, then you will need to call it solid plumber. NOPE. Does Drano work? At the strength used to clear clogged drains, ... Inhaling the fumes can also cause serious damage to your lungs. However, the chemicals in some drain cleaners can also cause PVC pipes to melt or grow soft. Again, with it sitting in the pipes for a while, it can either be corrosive and damage the joints between pipes or the PVC itself. Cons . Snaking does indeed run the risk of punching a hole in the pipe, and it won't permanently solve the problem. Finally, … How does it work? I would rather have one of my people deal with it professionally (sounds like it needs to be snaked and then put on a routine maintenance schedule) than to have Drano like products put down there and damage the pipes etc. As a landlord, I agree with G.R. However, such damage is rare if you use the drain cleaner as directed -- damage is more likely to occur when drain cleaner is used on older, metal pipes. May emit a pungent odor. I do believe the pipes are PVC. Drano can leave behind a residue that is just as bad as the hair that it's trying to get rid of. With so many things that can cause a clog, you have to make sure that the clog in question is one that Drano is effective on. This commonly recognized product is popular for good reason—it’s a great all-around drain opener that’s effective and affordable, to boot.. Drano Max Gel Clog Remover comes in 80-ounce bottles, and it’s safe to use on PVC, metal pipes, garbage disposals, and septic systems. based on types of pipes, age, etc). Plumbing System Damage Because of its corrosive nature, Drano can cause toilet bowls to crack, PVC pipes to melt or break and the glue that holds pipes together can be eaten away. The chemicals in Drano may not solve all clogs, and they can lead to a worsening of pipe issues. These products are damaging in other ways as well. I don't really like using Drano either, especially when I know the water is prone to backing up (a little exfoliation can be nice, but I don't really want to be soaking my feet in Drano… And the explosions do happen. Aside from being caustic, chemical drain cleaners result in tangible environmental repercussions. Yes, over a long period of time, the drano fluid can damage pipes. Used in plastic pipes, chemical drain cleaners cause damage by creating heat. For reference, the house is about 25 years old and the previous owners redid the master bathroom within the last 10 years. Less effective than comparable drain cleaners. Plumbing System Damage Because of its corrosive nature, Drano can cause toilet bowls to crack, PVC pipes to melt or break and the glue that holds pipes together can be eaten away. Check Price Bottom Line . If any is left over in your pipes after you unclog your drain, and it comes in contact with other chemicals it could cause a reaction that makes some toxic fumes. Drano is perhaps the most well-known of all the drain cleaners, and the Max Gel in the red plastic bottle, is the best they have. This heat can warp or melt the pipe, leading to leaks. Max Gel . Drano can build up in a clogged area, and corrode the pipe. If it doesn't unclog immediately, it stands in your drain and the acid erodes your pipes. When you think of drain cleaners, Drano is probably the first brand that pops into your head. Do Drano and / or Liquid plumber damage pipes? The only type you should avoid using this product for are PVC pipes. My biggest worry is that continued use of harsh chemicals like Drano will cause breaks or leaks in the pipe, in turn causing drywall damage to the ceilings downstairs. Q&A / Drain Cleaner Debate Bathrooms | Plumbing Design text: Tim Carter. So yes, it does work as long as the right conditions are present for its success. Even the ones that say ‘won’t damage pipes’ will damage pipes.” It’s even worse if you combine several chemical solutions, as that can cause noxious fumes or even an explosion. My advice is to be cautious of using the product over and over. DEAR TIM: You're completely wrong in your past column about using Drano for clogs. Dispose of grease down the drain. Drano is used very often since it’s a convenient do-it-yourself option that’s available at any hardware store. 3. 3. Fortunately, Liquid-Plumr ® is safe for all pipe types except rubber, which is present in some fittings. 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