Blocked drains are one of the most frustrating household or commercial cleaning challenges. Whether you’re dealing with a slow-draining sink or a completely clogged bathroom drain, understanding how drain unblockers work—and how to use them safely—can save you time, stress, and even costly plumbing repairs.

In this guide by Kejani Cleaning Services Limited, we answer common questions like “How do drain unblockers work?”, “Can drain unblockers melt pipes?”, “Are drain unblockers bad for the environment?”, and what to do if “a drain unblocker made things worse.”

🧪 How Do Drain Unblockers Work?

Drain unblockers (also called drain cleaners) come in three main types:

1. Chemical Drain Unblockers

• These are alkaline (caustic) or acidic substances that dissolve grease, hair, soap scum, and organic debris.

• Common ingredients: Sodium hydroxide, sulfuric acid, or potassium hydroxide.

• They break down clogs through chemical reactions that either dissolve or dislodge the material.

2. Enzymatic/Biological Drain Cleaners

• These contain natural enzymes and bacteria that digest organic waste in a more eco-friendly way.

• Ideal for preventive maintenance or use in sensitive environments like septic tanks.

3. Mechanical Unblockers

• Tools like plungers, drain rods, or snakes physically break up or pull out clogs.

• Often used before or after a liquid unblocker for better results.

🚨 Can Drain Unblockers Melt Pipes?

The Short Answer: Yes, but only if misused.

• Most household pipes made of PVC, copper, or steel can withstand moderate use of quality drain unblockers.

• However, excessive use or combining products can create heat or chemical reactions that warp plastic pipes or corrode metal.

• Always follow the product’s instructions and avoid using multiple types (e.g., acid + alkali) at once.

🧼 How to Use a Drain Unblocker Safely

1. Identify the Type of Blockage

   • Hair and soap in bathrooms → Use caustic cleaner or enzymatic cleaner

   • Grease and food in kitchens → Use grease-specific liquid cleaner

   • Solid blockages → Try a plunger or rod first

2. Prepare the Area

   • Remove standing water where possible

   • Open windows for ventilation

   • Wear gloves and eye protection

3. Pour the Product

   • Use the amount specified on the label

   • Avoid splashing and never mix two different products

4. Wait the Recommended Time

   • Can vary from 15 minutes to overnight, depending on the product

5. Flush with Hot Water

   • This clears loosened debris and restores flow

♻️ Are Drain Unblockers Bad for the Environment?

It depends.

• Chemical drain cleaners can harm the environment if poured in excess or flushed into the soil, lakes, or rivers.

• Eco-friendly enzymatic drain unblockers like Bio Max or Green Drain Cleaner, are biodegradable and safer for ecosystems and septic tanks.

• To be environmentally conscious:

  • Use only as directed

  • Choose enzymatic products when possible

  • Avoid flushing chemicals into outdoor drains

😫 Drain Unblocker Made It Worse – What to Do?

If using a drain cleaner worsens the clog (or causes a backup), follow these steps:

1. Stop Using More Chemicals
   Adding more can create dangerous reactions or pressure buildup.

2. Try Manual Tools
   Use a plunger or drain snake to dislodge or pull out the clog.

3. Use an Enzymatic Cleaner Overnight
   These are gentler and can digest material without damaging pipes.

4. Call a Professional Plumber
   For persistent or severe blockages, professional intervention may be necessary.

🚿 How to Unblock a Bathroom Drain

Bathroom drains are often clogged with hair, soap, and toothpaste. Here’s how to tackle them:

Option 1: Manual Removal

• Remove the drain cover

• Use a bent wire or a drain snake to pull out debris

Option 2: Enzymatic Cleaner

• Pour in the enzymatic solution

• Let it sit overnight

• Flush with hot water

Option 3: Caustic Drain Cleaner (as last resort)

• Use a small amount

• Allow 30 minutes

• Rinse thoroughly with warm water

Preventive Tip:

• Use a hair catcher over the drain

• Clean the drain monthly using enzyme-based products

🔄 Maintain Clear Drains with Kejani Cleaning

We offer a full range of drain unblockers and tools for homes, offices, and commercial kitchens:

✅ Enzyme-based cleaners
✅ Grease and fat dissolvers
✅ High-strength liquid unblockers
✅ Septic-safe solutions
✅ Drain rods, plungers, and more

👉 Browse Our Drain Unblockers in Kenya

🧠 Conclusion

Knowing how drain unblockers work, how to use them safely, and when to seek professional help can make all the difference in preventing costly water damage or pipe replacement. Whether you’re unblocking a bathroom, kitchen, or industrial drain, Kejani Cleaning Services Limited offers safe, effective, and environmentally responsible solutions.