Is Vinegar Harmful to Drain Pipes?

Do you know what lurks in your drains? Clogs can be caused by a variety of factors, including residual food particles, hair, and soap scum. The good news is that you don’t have to hire a plumber every time your drain becomes clogged. Instead, many people turn to vinegar as a viable alternative. Is vinegar, however, harmful to drain pipes? Let’s look at how vinegar works and weigh the benefits and drawbacks of using it on your plumbing.

The Science of Vinegar

Vinegar works by dissolving fats and oils that clog your drain. This makes it an excellent choice for kitchen sinks, where grease accumulation is typical. It also aids with the removal of soap scum and other debris that has developed in the pipes over time. The acidic nature of the vinegar aids in the breakdown of these particles, allowing them to be flushed down the drain.

But, Does It Harm the Pipes?

The short answer is perhaps. While vinegar is not acidic enough to damage most common metals and polymers used in plumbing, it can corrode certain metal pipes, such as galvanized steel or brass fittings, if left sitting for an extended period of time. Furthermore, due to the acidity level of vinegar, long-term exposure to it may cause plastic pipes to corrode over time. If you use vinegar to clear clogged drains, make sure to wash away any traces with hot water after around 15 minutes to avoid any potential damage.

When Do I Need to Hire a Plumber?

If you have recurring clogs or are concerned about the potential harm caused by putting vinegar on your pipes, you should seek the assistance of a professional plumber like Maxwell-White Plumbing. A skilled plumber will know exactly what type of pipe material is utilized in your home and may advise you whether or not using vinegar is safe for your specific situation—or propose another remedy such as hydrojetting service instead. They will also be able to detect any underlying issues that may be causing repeated clogging, allowing them to be rectified before additional damage occurs.

Visit Maxwell-White Plumbing to Learn More About Drain Cleaning!

While vinegar is great at breaking down fats and oils that clog your drains, it may not always be the safest option when it comes to safeguarding the integrity of your pipes over a term. If you have regular blockages or want to ensure that everything is done the first time correctly, choosing an expert plumber like Maxwell-White Plumbing is always a good option! With our assistance, you can ensure that your plumbing system remains healthy and functional year after year without having to worry about potential problems caused by improper chemical use or DIY remedies that have gone wrong! If you have more questions regarding drain cleaning in La Crosse, WI, please get in touch with us today!

When you call us, our professionals will clear the obstruction and restore normal operation to your system. In addition, we provide emergency services at reasonable rates.