Contents
Clogged drains can make simple tasks such as brushing the teeth or using the toilet extremely unpleasant. While there are chemicals that clear clogs effectively, they’re not always the best. Harsh chemicals can damage your drain pipes.
They’re also harmful to the environment. Thus, harsh chemicals are the last thing you’d want to pour down the drain. The best alternative is using a product known as hydrogen peroxide, according to our 24 hr plumbing experts in Sydney.
Hydrogen Peroxide
One of the best products to use in clearing drain clogs is hydrogen peroxide. The product works as an oxidizer. It’s colourless and a bit denser than water.
It works by damaging and destroying organic matter including germs, making it a great disinfectant. It’s also ideal for clearing drain clogs as it eats away the clogged matter.
Hydrogen peroxide is affordable. It’s sold in most local grocery stores and pharmacies. You’ll need to use 3 percent of the product for the best results.
Usage
There are certain steps you’ll need to follow to use the product effectively when removing clogs. First, pour baking soda (one cup) down the clogged drain.
Allow it to settle for ten minutes. Next, pour hydrogen peroxide (one cup) down the same drain. You’ll notice a foaming action.
Don’t worry about the foam. It’s the working action resulting from the mixture of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide as they work on the waste matter clogging the drain pipe.
The two products will wear away and loosen the plug to open up the drain. Allow the products to continue working on the drain for several hours.
Next, pour some hot water into the drain. Doing so will rinse the remaining clog. Although you can try unclogging the drain with hydrogen peroxide on its own, you might need to use it multiple times to work effectively.
Preventing Drain Clogs
In case your drain is susceptible to frequent clogs, using hydrogen peroxide may prevent the clogs from recurring.
You can do this by pouring hydrogen peroxide (one cup) down the drainage every 14 days. Allow it to settle for an hour and then pour several cups of hot water down the drainage.
The product works by destroying any organic matter that might be building up within the drain pipe. Hydrogen peroxide also keeps drainage pipes free of mildew and mold growth.
Considerations
Hydrogen peroxide should be stored in its opaque bottle. It should be stored in a dry and cool cabinet. The product should not be exposed to heat and light as it may break down, thereby losing its effectiveness.
You should discard the product after its expiry date. It should be kept in an area where children and pets can’t reach.
Although it’s not as toxic as most chemical drain cleaners, it may cause a burning sensation in the eyes and skin irritation. If you swallow it, it can trigger gastric upset and vomiting.
Related Article: Can A Bath Bomb Clog Drains?