How to choose a sewer pipe cleaner: a comparative review of all types of products

If water is stagnating in your kitchen sink, it's time to think about cleaning it before the situation becomes an emergency.There are several methods of dealing with blockages, one of them is cleaning with chemically active substances.

Let's try to figure out how to choose a sewer pipe cleaner so that it really helps and does not harm your plumbing and utility systems.

The article identifies the main reasons for the formation of blockages and presents a classification of drugs by release form and active ingredients. In order not to get confused in the variety of household chemicals, we have compiled a detailed review of effective products with a description of their compositions and methods of use.

Why might pipes become clogged?

A clogged sewer pipe is a fairly common occurrence. The current situation must, of course, be corrected as soon as possible, since without sewerage it becomes impossible to use water in the apartment, and this is not the most pleasant situation.

To select a remedy, determine the cause of the blockage:

• a traffic jam has formed from hair, garbage, etc.;
• the pipe lumen has narrowed to critical sizes due to the layering of fat and dirt on the walls of the sewer;
• incorrect piping arrangement led to the fact that the water does not flow away by gravity, but stagnates in the pipe.

As a rule, all causes can be easily eliminated if the rules for installation and operation of the pipeline are followed, and if a blockage has already occurred, there are chemical and mechanical methods fight him.

The lumen of the pipe has decreased - what is the reason?

Very often, pipes become clogged as a result of the build-up of fatty deposits and rust and, as a result, the lumen of the sewer narrows. This happens especially often in houses with cast iron or steel sewer pipes.

The water supplied through the pipeline has a certain chemical composition. It contains various salts, biological particles, and chlorine residues after cleaning.

In addition, water that has been used, contaminated with detergents, and more comes into the sewer system. This chemical cocktail reacts with the pipe material, oxidation occurs, and rust appears.

The corrosion process is long, it does not stop in a humid environment, and gradually the inside of the pipeline becomes completely covered with rust.

Plastic pipes do not corrode. However, with poorly processed joints, if there are plastic burrs, protrusions, gaps and other irregularities on the inside, a build-up of dirt with subsequent blockage of the pipe can also occur

Sticky fat settles on the rough surface and cannot be washed off with cold water. Hair and food debris stick to the grease after washing dishes, and the growths on the walls increase exponentially until the pipe lumen is completely clogged in the most vulnerable place.

To prevent the formation of such traffic jams, you can install grease trap under sink — the device filters wastewater entering the sewer system.

Foreign body in the drain - a dangerous situation

A blockage of garbage, hair, wool, sand and other waste that has no place in the sewer occurs when the rules for using the sewage system are violated. Some people believe that literally anything smaller than the drain can be thrown down the drain. This is a big misconception.

If such a blockage has formed in a pipe as part of the distribution throughout the apartment, one or more plumbing fixtures are taken out of service, and if the riser is clogged, several apartments may be cut off from the sewer system at once. It's unlikely that the neighbors will say thank you

Insoluble, bulky debris can become stuck in the pipe, gradually accumulating smaller particles, hair debris, and grease from the kitchen sink. All this will turn into a huge traffic jam inside the sewer system.

Such problems cannot be dealt with using folk methods or chemical means. Optimal solution - cleaning with a plumbing cable.

The pipe is systematically clogged - it's a matter of installation

When laying sewers, it is important to maintain a slope of about 3%. Then the wastewater will be discharged under the influence of gravity. With such a slight slope, water comes into good contact with the walls and carries away all the particles.

If the slope is insufficient, this will lead to the fact that the drains will stagnate, dirt will not be washed off the walls, but will continue to accumulate until a blockage forms. However sewer slope – this is the case when the rule “the more the better” does not apply.

If the angle of inclination of the pipe is too large, the water will fly by quickly and will not have time to capture the remaining household waste that will remain on the walls.

Another rule for laying sewer pipes is to try to avoid turns. Turns at an angle of 90° are especially dangerous. The more points of change of direction, the higher the risk of blockage.

Classification of chemicals for sewage

Chemicals for cleaning the sewer system differ in their release form and chemical composition. Depending on the result you want to get, as well as the severity of the blockage, a chemical is selected.

Different forms of drug release

Depending on the consistency of the sewer pipe cleaner, it can be:

• liquid;
• gel;
• powder (granulated).

Powder products are concentrated and very caustic. Using them without gloves is extremely dangerous. Previously, such substances were poured into the sewer drain and left overnight, and then washed with boiling water in the morning. Such a procedure can only make things worse.

If the rules of use are not followed, aggressive chemicals can corrode the gaskets and add another problem to drain cleaning - a complete replacement of the sewer pipeline.

Always adhere to the method of application specified in the instructions for the chemicals. Modern powder products only need 2 hours to eliminate the problem.

Liquid products for cleaning sewer pipes are less concentrated and aggressive. The main disadvantage of liquid products is that if there is water left in the system, it will reduce the concentration of the substance and it may not work.

The bottle contains a ready-made solution that does not need to be diluted in any way.It’s easier to use chemicals in liquid form; it’s impossible to make a mistake with the proportion

Gel products used in the same way as liquid ones. Thanks to the gel formula, the substance does not mix with water so quickly, it quickly and efficiently reaches the site of blockage and removes it.

Chemical composition - division according to active components

The chemical method of cleaning pipes involves aggressively attacking the blockage and decomposing the organic substances that make up its composition. Simply put, cleaning products dissolve the plug.

For this, active substances such as:

• alkalis - caustic sodium, caustic potassium;
• acids - acetic acid, hydrochloric acid, etc.

Chemicals from the mass market often include surfactants (surfactants), fragrances and even dyes for a more effective color.

Alkalis and acids can react with organic matter, which slows down the drainage of water. Kitchen sink pipes often become clogged with grease. In such cases, products based on caustic alkalis are more effective.

Reason clog in the bathroom often hair and animal fur. They consist of collagen protein and dissolve well under the influence of acids.

The drugs also differ in the concentration of chemically active substances. To understand which product is more effective and contains less water, just look at such an indirect indicator as exposure time.

Most likely, the quantity of one or another component will not be indicated on the packaging. The less time it takes to clean, the more concentrated the product is in front of you

Manufacturers also disguise less active compounds under the label “for prevention.”This means that the product is unlikely to cope with real blockages, and it should be used only when there is a slowdown in drainage and quite regularly.

Perhaps there is logic in this, but people begin to use such means only after they are faced with a real blockage and resort to a more “vigorous” chemical with enhanced action.

Which product should you choose and what is the difference between them?

When you go to a household chemicals store, you can stand at the shelf with sewer pipe cleaners for more than one hour. There are a lot of options, they differ in their mechanism of action, method of application, and, of course, cost. Consider the most popular remedies and one home recipe.

Pothan from Baga - an explosive mixture of chemicals

Kitchen drain cleaner Pothan is in demand among buyers. The drug is made in Israel, manufactured by “Bagi”. Pothan is an alkaline remedy.

The composition states:

• sodium hydroxide (NaOH);
• detergent additives (it is not specified which ones).

The proportions and concentration of chemicals are not indicated on the packaging, but it is noted that it complies with EU standards. The substance itself is sold in a large 600 ml opaque bottle with a comfortable handle.

Do not use the product on corrugated pipes (for example, for cleaning a toilet), thin pipes, washing machine or dishwasher drains

Pothan itself has the appearance of granules - round balls of gray and white colors. To clean pipes, 70-100 g of product is enough - half a glass. The price is quite high (about 450 rubles), but given the fact that the substance is enough for at least 6 uses, the cost of each cleaning is quite reasonable - about 75 rubles. at a time.

How to use Pothan:

1. If there is water in the sink, remove it.
2. Take precautions: rubber gloves, open windows, respirator.
3. Measure out the required number of granules.
4. Pour the product into the drain at arm's length. Do not look into the hole; a fountain of toxic spray, foam and fumes may fly out from there.
5. Measure out 70-100 ml of hot water.
6. Also, without looking or bending, pour water into the drain at arm's length.
7. The reaction will begin instantly and will proceed very violently.
8. After 3 minutes, rinse the drain with warm running water.

If Pothan does not help, do not try to extend the exposure time or significantly exceed the recommended dosage. This can lead to damage to the pipeline. In case of heavy contamination, the procedure can be repeated. Under normal use, Pothan is harmless to plastic or steel pipes.

The lid is childproof because there is a deadly chemical inside. A sign in the form of a skull and crossbones warns that the product is very caustic.

The manufacturer warns that Pothan is a very active substance. It should not be mixed with any other chemicals to avoid causing an unexpected reaction. It is also strictly forbidden to pour water into a bottle and dilute the product.

A classic that has stood the test of time - Mole

Pipe cleaner "Mole" - the most popular option in the vastness of the countries of the former USSR. The name itself is firmly entrenched in the mind and is associated with that very “Soviet quality”.

There is no single manufacturer of Mole; products with the same name are produced by many companies. In addition to the popular name, they are united by active ingredients, which are the basis of the drug.

Composition of the product:

• sodium hydroxide;
• potassium hydroxide;
• ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid.

Proportions may vary. In addition to these substances, the composition includes additives such as surfactants and distilled water.

The time-tested product has cleared millions of blockages and continues to be in great demand. The product is available in liquid or powder form. The method of application depends on the release form

Liquid “Mole” is simply poured into the drain, powder is poured in, and then filled with hot water. In order for the substance to work, it is left in the drain for 1-2 hours. Then flush the drain with hot water.

“Mole” in the form of powder or granules is produced in bags of 90-100 g. 1 bag is enough for one cleaning. The cost starts from 13 rubles, which is significantly cheaper than imported analogues. Liquid products are sold in bottles of different sizes. The average cost is 40 rubles per 500 ml.

Rorax – guarding the environment and clean pipes

The German company ERDAL-REX specializes in the production of household chemicals. The emphasis is on environmentally friendly drugs. Development of this company - Rorax – organic drain cleaner. The fact that Rorax does not harm the environment is confirmed by the EMAS certificate. Supplied in liquid form.

The product includes:

• amphoteric surfactants (about 5%);
• phosphonates (about 5%);
• chlorine bleach.

Since the product is environmentally friendly, it can be safely used for cleaning sewer pipes in a private house, where wastewater is discharged directly into a cesspool.

By using Rorax, you don’t have to worry that such harmful chemistry will negatively affect the condition of the soil or groundwater

The method of application differs little from similar products:

1. Pour 250 ml into the drain hole.
2. Give the product time to clean (about 2 hours, but longer can be done).
3. Rinse with hot water.

The Rorax bottle has a volume of 1 liter. The cost of this amount of liquid for flushing sewer pipes is within 400 rubles. 1 package is enough for 4 uses with a recommended consumption of 250 ml.

Is Tiret a miracle remedy or just marketing?

The advertised product of the international company Reckitt Benckiser Tiret sold in almost every supermarket. The brand is positioned as a super-effective pipe cleaner that copes with even the most stubborn stains.

There are 3 types of Tiret:

• Tiret Turbo;
• Tiret Professional;
• Tiret Antibacterial.

They are identical in composition, differ in concentration and, accordingly, in cost. The product contains chlorine bleach and surfactants.

The most concentrated - Tiret Turbo. This product is intended for emergency cleaning of sewer pipes from hair and grease, soap and detergent residues. The cost of 1 bottle is about 350 rubles. For a good pipe cleaning, you will need at least half a bottle (about 250 ml).

Tiret Professional Designed to eliminate blockages, as well as to prevent their occurrence. It is used not only when the pipe is completely clogged, but also regularly, as soon as there are suspicions that this will happen soon.

The cost of a product marked “Professional” is 250 rubles. The consumption is similar - at least half a bottle. That is, 1 bottle is enough for 2 times.

Antibacterial Tiret not only fights clogged pipes, but also eliminates unpleasant odors that appear every now and then from the sink drain in the bathroom or kitchen. The composition contains a rather intense fragrance. Price around 250 rubles. for 500 ml.

The antibacterial agent itself does not dissolve the blockage as aggressively as the “Turbo” and “Professional” versions, but it is widely used for prevention

Mode of application:

1. Pour 250 ml of Tiret gel into the drain.
2. Wait 15 minutes. You can increase the action time a little, but do not overdo it.
3. Rinse the pipes with hot water under pressure. If necessary, repeat from the beginning.

Tiret has a gel consistency. Even in standing water, the gel easily moves through the pipes to the point of blockage.

We advise you to read rating of the best funds for cleaning sewer pipes. The review includes the pros and cons of chemicals, real consumer reviews and nuances of using reagents.

Traditional recipes: how to do without aggressive chemicals

Sometimes, if a blockage occurs in a sewer pipe, you can do without expensive chemicals altogether.Available materials come to the rescue - safe chemicals that every housewife has in her kitchen.

We are talking about ordinary soda and table vinegar. The acid and alkali neutralize each other and a large amount of CO2 gas is released.

As you know, vinegar is an acid, and soda dissolved in water has an alkaline reaction. Probably everyone has used these tools in cooking at least once.

The recipe for cleaning drains with vinegar and soda is as follows:

1. Pour a glass of soda into the drain.
2. Pour a glass of vinegar.
3. Close the hole with a plug.

Foaming begins inside the pipe and pressure rises. Gas bubbles cannot escape and remove the blockage.

Of course, the effect of such cleaning will be temporary. It will not be possible to completely flush the pipes, and the likelihood of rapid re-clogging is high. But as an emergency aid, the method is very good.

Safety rules: how to protect yourself

Do not forget that sewer pipe cleaners are very serious chemicals.

You should not underestimate the danger when using these substances; always follow safety precautions:

• wear rubber gloves;
• do not lean towards the drain while the reaction is taking place;
• open the windows and provide access to fresh air;
• in case of contact with mucous membranes, rinse with running water as soon as possible;
• store chemicals where children and curious pets cannot find them;
• If you accidentally swallow even a minimal amount of one of these products, immediately consult a doctor with the package so that you understand which chemical substance is being discussed.

And the most important rule is to always read the instructions before starting cleaning and stick to them.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

To decide which product to choose from those offered, watch the videos, which examine in detail the work of each drug and evaluate its effectiveness. This will help you make the right choice.

How to clean a pipe with soda and vinegar:

Video review of sewer pipe cleaning products:

Pothan against a blockage in the pipe - who will win?

Not all drain cleaners are created equal. Some need more time, others less. Some people deal with the blockage in one go, while others need a second try. And the price range is very wide.

Regardless of whether you choose domestic chemicals or an imported product, do not forget about the rules of use and safety precautions.

Do you have personal experience dealing with sewer blockages? Would you like to share effective methods or recommend an effective remedy? Please leave comments and ask questions - the feedback form is located below.