As a plumbing business owner, it's essential to suggest drain cleaning options that won't harm your customers' pipes, septic systems, or sewers. A safer choice over chemical drain cleaners, enzyme cleaners use bacteria to break down organic matter such as grease and debris which clog drains, without impacting the pipes or sewer systems.
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- What are enzyme cleaners?
- How do enzyme cleaners work?
- Are enzyme cleaners safe for pipes?
- The best way to use enzyme drain cleaners
- What are some enzyme cleaners?
1. What are enzyme cleaners?
An enzyme cleaner uses biological enzymes (molecules that speed up a chemical reaction) to effectively break down clogs made from organic matter, such as food particles, hair, mildew, mould and algae. The enzymes break down the material into tiny pieces that can be flushed through your pipes with water. They work in the same way as the enzymes in a human digestive system, breaking down organic matter into manageable particles. Once the enzymes break down the organic material, the only by-products are carbon dioxide and water.
2. How do enzyme cleaners work?
As chemical catalysts, enzymes help bacteria break down complex molecules in starches, proteins, and other compounds into smaller molecules. The bacteria use these molecules for food. After digestion, they release carbon dioxide and water as byproducts. Once the food supply (aka, clog) is gone, the population of the bacteria reduces and eventually dies out.
While most chemical cleaners start to break up clogs almost instantly, enzymatic cleaners take much longer to dislodge clogs as the bacteria need time to break down organic matter. As a result, you usually have to leave enzymatic cleaners for at least a few hours before you can flush your pipes.
3. Are enzyme cleaners safe for pipes?
One of the best features of enzymatic cleaners is that they are safe for your pipes and drains. Since they do not contain corrosive chemicals, they don't run the risk of deforming or stripping pipes. Instead, enzymatic cleaners rely on biological reactions to break up sludge and clear drain blockages. Enzyme drain cleaners are also a safer option for plumbers and residents, as there is a far lower risk of toxic fumes and burns during the application process.
4. The best way to use enzyme drain cleaners
First, pour a mixture of baking soda and hot water down the affected drain. The baking soda will soften the blockage, making it easier for the enzymes and bacteria to do their job. The enzyme cleaner will need to sit for at least 6 hours to begin to work. Ideally, you will apply and leave the cleaner overnight. An enzyme cleaner should be diluted at a ratio of 1 cup of water to 1 teaspoon of cleaner. Bacteria and enzymes need water to spread and generate energy. To prevent future blockages, pipes and drain entrances should be protected by drain covers.
5. What are some enzyme cleaners?
Bio-clean: Drain Septic Bacteria
With an expected value of 50 drain treatments per pound, Bio-Clean's economically friendly powdered Drain Septic Bacteria enzyme cleaner option is an environmentally safe and versatile option for use in kitchen sinks, showers, bathtubs, septic tanks, and more. For the best results, we recommend mixing the powder with lukewarm water between 98º and 105º Fahrenheit, as boiling water can kill the active enzymes and bacteria. Once dissolved, the mixture is added to the pipes where the enzymes and bacteria naturally travel to grease. This environment is ideal for them to breed, allowing the enzymes to double in volume every 30 minutes. As long as additional water is not added to the pipe, the enzymes and bacteria will continue to multiply until the food source is depleted.
Green Gobbler: Enzymatic Drain and Grease Trap Cleaner
Popular among both plumbers and homeowners, Green Gobbler's Enzymatic Drain and Grease Trap Cleaner dissolves hair, grease, soap, and paper, — yet is gentle enough on pipes to be used as part of a homeowner's ongoing maintenance. Although it is one of the more expensive options, it’s a favourite for its thick formula that clings to pipes and provides fast relief. The solution actively liquefies hair in toilets, sinks, and showers, and outperforms its competitors by rapidly lowering the pH level in drains.
Earthworm: Drain Cleaner
Developed from Earthworm, a family-owned, woman-led cleaning brand, their Drain Cleaner is also pet and child-friendly! This natural enzyme cleaner is popular for its light citrus and sage fragrance, although may not be suited for those sensitive to strong or fragrant perfumes. However, users say the temporary smell leaves after the recommended three days of use. Regular use of Earthworms' drain cleaner as part of a customer's regular plumbing maintenance removes the build-up of organic matter and helps stop clogs before they start.
Zep: Drain Defence Enzymatic Drain Cleaner Powder
As another powered enzyme treatment, Zep's Drain Defence Enzymatic Drain Cleaner Powder may require more elbow grease compared to liquid alternatives. However, as a powder, it offers easier storage and ultimately better value for money. Among customers, it's rated as being particularly beneficial for those with older plumbing, neglected drains, or households with long-haired family members, as this product excels at breaking down long hair and soap scum.
User reviews also claim that:
- Drain performance may initially worsen before improving, especially if there has been a significant lack of preventive maintenance over the years. Resolving deep-seated issues takes time, and there is no quick fix for decades of neglect.
- The product may seem ineffective at first, but patience is key. Continuous treatments will eventually yield results.
- It’s likely that two canisters will be necessary—one to restore your drains to a normal state, and a second for ongoing maintenance.
- For optimal results, it’s recommended to flush the drain with hot water before applying the treatment.
Bioda: Professional Strength Enzyme Drain Cleaner
Safe for pipes and septic systems, Bioda's Professional Strength Enzyme Drain Cleaner uses beneficial bacteria instead of harsh chemicals, protecting your plumbing while eliminating odours at the source. Its versatility makes it suitable for kitchen and bathroom sinks, garbage disposals, sewers, bathtubs, and even boat and RV holding tanks. The thick formula pours easily without splattering, and its subtle scent works effectively without leaving any lingering bathroom odours.
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