It happens to all of us when we least expect it. Whether we are washing the dishes, taking a shower, or even using the bathroom, you see that the water isn’t draining as quickly as it should and it dawns on you, I have a clog that needs to be fixed! Unfortunately, one size doesn’t fit all in these situations and different clogs require different solutions. Well, you’re in luck! In this blog, we here at Theochem Labs will not only break down the different causes of most clogs but also the best solution for each type of clog according to which drain the clog is stuck in as well. Whether it’s our sulfuric acid-based solution, our liquid alkaline product, or our powdered alkaline solution, we will guide you to the best fix for your nasty clog.
Every Drain Opener + Uses
1) Sulfuric Acid Drain Openers
Most common clogs occur over time due to excess hair, paper, rags, sponges, sanitary products, food, or other debris collecting over time that fails to exit the drain. Keep in mind the type of drain you are working on before identifying the proper solution to take care of your clog. Our first set of recommendations will be for tackling clogs in plastic polyvinyl chloride, better known as PVC pipes. When using our inhibited sulfuric acid liquid drain openers, please be mindful as these products are highly concentrated. Sulfuric acid is a substance that increases hydronium ions in a solution, which then attracts electrons from the clog. From there, the hydronium ions have a chemical reaction with the clog, and that reaction releases heat. Before attempting any of this, however, please wear the proper personal protective equipment such as safety goggles, rubber gloves, and a face shield if possible due to skin contact. See our top suggestion below for our sulfuric acid drain opener.
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Buster Concentrated Sulfuric Acid Drain Opener: This heavy-duty concentrated sulfuric acid drain opener quickly dissolves grease, hair, paper, food, rags, and other organic obstructions. This product performs best when used in drains and toilets specifically.
2) Liquid Alkaline Drain Openers
Solid formulations of liquid alkaline drain cleaners (also known as caustic drain cleaners) contain substances such as caustic potash and lye. These are the bases and give electrons to the clogging material and their hydroxide ions create a reaction, which clears the clog. Their alkaline chemicals release heat and transform grease into a soapy substance that becomes easier to dissolve. Drain cleaners such as these are heavier than water, which allows them to reach the targeted clog through standing water. Please see below our recommendation for our liquid alkaline-based drain opener that you can use at home.
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Fumeless Heavy Duty Alkaline Drain Opener: This fast-acting, professional strength alkaline drain opener is perfect for dissolving hair, grease, and organic materials. Can be used in the kitchen as well as in bathroom drains.
3) Powdered Alkaline Drain Openers
Alkaline drain openers are professional strength solutions that help remedy a number of clogs in all types of pipes. However, when comparing powdered alkaline to liquid alkaline solutions, powdered alkaline drain openers tend to be the safer and more concentrated of the two. With that being said, we have the one powdered alkaline solution that fits these criteria that we highly recommend to help return your drains to a free-flowing state. See below for our powdered alkaline recommendation that you’ll be sure to love!
- Clean Shot Crystal Drain Opener: When you’re racing against the clock, the Clean Shot Crystal Drain Opener is your weapon of choice. This fact-acting product works in 60 seconds to dissolve built-up grease, hair, soap scum, and bath oils.
4) Drain Maintainers
This last one is more of a bonus and doesn’t rely on having your drains clogged, instead, this is a preventative step to stay ahead of the curve. Utilizing a drain maintainer keeps drain and grease traps clean and free-flowing with regular use. The enzymes break down grease, fat, and protein build-up. They may also be used as an all-purpose cleaner and odor counteractant to help leave a pleasant fragrance behind that’ll last for hours.
- Liqua-Zyme Bio-Enzymatic Drain Maintainer: This stable liquid suspension of cultured bacteria digests solid and organic wastes while destroying offensive malodors and stains at their source. Liqua-Zyme’s unique formulation leaves a pleasant fragrance that lasts for hours. Safe for all plumbing and septic systems.
Before we finish this off, just a few more tips to ensure you are safe during your cleaning process. If you are using our sulfuric acid or alkaline solutions, they can be deadly if swallowed, can burn eyes, skin, and mucous membranes, and tear through clothing. Wear proper clothing as well as some can cause noxious fumes and if used incorrectly, can cause explosions. Use in a well-ventilated area, wear rubber gloves, and keep children and animals away from the drain. As always, thank you for taking the time to read our helpful tips on clogs and how to properly identify the right solution for the job. Stay safe and clean wisely!
