Have you ever stood in front of your kitchen sink, dirty dishes piled up, and water refusing to drain? Whether it's in the bathroom or kitchen, a clogged drain isn't pleasant.

While a bottle of liquid drain cleaner may seem like the quickest and cheapest option, there are a few reasons to consider calling a professional plumber instead. Working with an expert ensures reliable results and protection for your pipes, health, and the environment.

What Are Liquid Drain Cleaners?

Liquid drain cleaners are chemical solutions designed to unclog drains by breaking down blockages. Most of them contain poisonous ingredients like sodium hydroxide, which are caustic and corrosive. While effective at dissolving fats, proteins, and other organic matter, these chemicals are dangerous for your skin, eyes, and respiratory system, not to mention harmful to the environment.

Pros and Cons of Using Liquid Drain Cleaner

Firstly, do drain cleaners work? Yes, they can be effective for minor clogs. However, the potential risks may outweigh the benefits. Here are some factors to consider: 

Pros

If you take safety precautions like wearing a mask, goggles, and gloves, liquid drain cleaner may work for you. Here are its advantages:

  • Quick and easy to use    
  • Inexpensive   
  • Available at local stores

Cons

Even if you are careful, it's better to avoid liquid drain cleaners. Here's why:

  • Can't clear all clogs
  • May not fix the underlying cause
  • Can damage pipes and fixtures
  • Contains toxic, dangerous ingredients 
  • Pollutes the environment

Benefits of Hiring a Professional Plumber

Handing the issue over to an expert is safer and more reliable than using drain cleaner for many reasons, including:

  • Industry experience: Years of training and fieldwork mean professionals offer a comprehensive diagnosis and effective solutions.
  • Safety: Adherence to local codes reduces risks of injury and property damage.
  • Time saved: Professionals should be extremely punctual and efficient, providing quick results.
  • Peace of mind: You can trust plumbers to complete the job correctly.
  • Warranty and guarantees: Many companies offer warranties so you can benefit from added assurance in their work.

When to Choose a Professional Plumber

You can try using liquid drain cleaner before hiring a professional plumber as long as you're aware of the risks. If you do want to give DIY methods a try, use a plunger or an all-natural drain and bathroom cleaner recipe instead. If that doesn't work, it's time to call the professionals. 

Contact the Experts to Clear Your Drains

If you've exhausted the DIY options or simply want the job done right, the technicians at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing are ready to assist, day or night. We offer drain clearing, cleaning, and repair services. Financing options available. 

Request an appointment online or call us.