Leaving a drain cleaner containing sodium hypochlorite (bleach) and sodium hydroxide (lye) for an prolonged interval, corresponding to in a single day, can have numerous penalties. Whereas the product goals to dissolve clogs composed of hair, grease, and cleaning soap scum, prolonging its contact past the beneficial time on the product label can doubtlessly harm plumbing. The chemical response between the substances and the blockage continues so long as the product is current, doubtlessly affecting the pipe materials itself.
The first threat related to prolonged publicity is the potential for pipe corrosion, notably in older plumbing methods fabricated from supplies like PVC or metallic. The corrosive nature of the chemical substances can weaken the integrity of the pipes over time, resulting in leaks and even bursts. Moreover, hardened clogs could not dissolve fully, and the extended chemical response can generate extreme warmth, posing a further threat to the structural integrity of the drain system. This follow is usually discouraged by producers as a result of elevated probability of harm in comparison with following the beneficial utilization pointers.
