What happens if you leave Drano in the drain too long? Monday, January 02, 2023

Having a clogged drain can be a major inconvenience, and often it appears as though the only solution is to call a plumber. However, plenty of products are available on the market designed to unclog a drain without needing a professional.

One of these products is Drano, a liquid drain cleaner designed to help clear out clogs and buildup in your drains. It is a fast and easy solution, but if you leave Drano in the drain for too long, you may have serious problems.

1. Corrosion

When Drano is left in the drain for too long, it can cause corrosion of the pipes. The chemicals in the product are designed to break own the clog, but if left for too long, they can start to break down the pipes themselves. This can lead to cracks and leaks in the pipes, leading to various issues, including water damage and flooding.

2. Damage to Plumbing Fixtures

In addition to the pipes, leaving Drano in the drain for too long can damage the plumbing fixtures. This includes the sink, shower, bathtub, and other plumbing fixtures connected to the drain. These fixtures can become corroded and discolored and can start to show signs of wear and tear. In extreme cases, the fixtures may need to be replaced entirely.

3. Chemical Burns

The chemicals in Drano can also be dangerous to your skin. The product can cause chemical burns and irritation if you come into contact with it. This is why always wearing gloves when using any drain cleaner and avoiding contact with your skin is essential. Additionally, if you accidentally leave the product in the drain for too long, it can cause a buildup of fumes that can irritate your eyes, nose, and throat.

4. Environmental Damage

Leaving Drano in the drain for too long can also harm the environment. When the product is left in the drain, it can enter the water supply and make its way into rivers and streams. This can be hazardous to plant and animal life and contaminate drinking water.

What should you do, if you have accidentally left Draino in the drain for too long?

1. Flush the drain with hot water

The best way to remove any excess Drano is to flush the drain with hot water. This will help to break down any buildup that may have formed due to the product and will help to flush out any remaining product.
 

2. Use a plunger

If the hot water doesn't do the trick, you can use a plunger to help remove any remaining clogs. This can be especially helpful if the clog is deeper in the pipes.

3. Call a plumber

A professional plumber can help assess the situation and determine the best action. They may be able to help remove the clog and repair any damage that the product may have caused.

It is essential to take the necessary precautions when using any drain cleaner, especially Drano. Drano can be a great tool to help unclog your drain and remove buildup when appropriately used. However, if you leave Drano in the drain for too long, it can cause serious damage to your pipes and plumbing fixtures and cause chemical burns and environmental damage.

To avoid these issues, it is essential to follow the instructions on the Drano product carefully and never leave it in the drain for longer than the recommended time. If you accidentally leave it in for too long, it's essential to take the necessary steps to flush out the product, such as using hot water and a plunger. If the problem persists, it is best to call a professional plumber to assess the situation and provide the best solution.

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You can always rely on the Plumbers in Lakeland, at True Plumbers & A/C for your drain – and A/C - issues.

 Whether the above methods have failed or you are hesitant to take on the unclogging process yourself, our team is ready to help. Get in touch with our professional plumbers by calling (863) 667-6364 today. We offer our comprehensive plumbing services to central Florida homes located in and around Plant City, Lakeland, and Winter Haven, FL.