As a professional plumber, you've likely encountered stubborn clogs that resist your standard drain-clearing tools. When this happens, turning to chemical solutions can be the most effective way to break through the blockage. If the clog you're dealing with is caused by organic matter like grease, hair, dirt, or soap scum, acid-based chemical cleaners will break down these materials to restore the flow. Acid drain cleaners offer a powerful and fast-acting method to clear drains, but they also come with risks. Proper knowledge and caution are essential to avoid chemical burns or inhaling harmful fumes.
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Strength rating: 9/10
Sulfuric acid is an incredibly heavy-duty chemical used in plumbing for dissolving organic material in drains. One of its most potent and dangerous attributes is the heat generated when it comes in contact with water. While this is what helps break down the clog, it also requires careful consideration when using it in high concentrations. Most domestic drain cleaners will contain around 1% sulfuric acid, however, even these weaker solutions should be used with caution on plastic pipes.
To safely use sulfuric acid, first open all windows in the room where the drain is to be unclogged to allow for proper ventilation. PPE, including gloves, goggles, and acid-resistant clothing will allow you to avoid burns and respiratory damage. The combination of water and sulfuric acid will get pretty hot, so be sure not to add too much at a time or it could potentially cause the pipes to melt.
Strength rating: 8/10
Muriatic acid is a type of hydrochloric acid, and the two are often used interchangeably. The key distinction is that muriatic acid is a diluted version of hydrochloric acid, containing small amounts of iron that give it a yellow hue, while hydrochloric acid is typically colourless or only slightly yellow. The strength of muriatic acid vary, with commercial versions containing up to 30% HCl. This makes it strong enough to tackle tough blockages, but it still requires careful handling.
Always dilute muriatic acid with water before use (typically one part acid to 10 parts water). Always add acid to water, not water to acid.! This acid will cause burns to the skin and eyes, and its vapours can even damage your respiratory tract. Make sure to cover all exposed skin and eyes, wear acid-resistant gloves, and use a respirator and/or work in a well-ventilated area. It's important to note that combining HCI with other cleaning products, such as chlorine bleach, can produce toxic chlorine gas. Never mix cleaning products, as the results can be deadly!
Strength Rating: 6/10
Phosphoric acid is less corrosive than hydrochloric and sulfuric acids, making it a safer option for certain applications. It's considered safe enough to be included in popular fizzy drinks, such as Coke and Pepsi! While it's best to be avoided in drinks, it's ideal for descaling and rust removal in pipes, as it effectively dissolves mineral buildup without posing as much risk to the plumbing materials. This makes it particularly useful in residential settings where older pipes might be more prone to damage from stronger acids.
While less corrosive than some of its competitors, care should always be front of mind when using any acid cleaner. This includes the basics of PPE, including gloves and goggles, as well as good ventilation wherever possible.
Buckeye® Sparkle™ Multipurpose Acid Cleaner
Strength Rating: 4/10
Although technically vinegar, the last thing you'd want to do is add any acetic acid cleaners to your salad. These cleaners often contain Acetic Acid at a concentration of 49%, which is far stronger than the vinegar you’d find in your kitchen. This concentrated white vinegar, classified as technical grade, is specifically formulated for cleaning purposes, not for consumption. Unlike the food-grade vinegar used in cooking, which typically has an acetic acid concentration of around 5%, this powerful cleaner is designed to cut through grease, grime, and mineral deposits.
The mild nature of acetic acid means it can be used more frequently and with less concern for damaging pipes. However, proper dilution is still necessary to ensure safety and effectiveness. Safety Measures, such as gloves and goggles, are recommended when handling acetic acid. If nothing else, it'll save your hands smelling like a UK fish and chip shop.
30% Acetic Acid Solution by DIYChemicals
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