Aging plumbing can present significant challenges for any homeowner. It can lead to various issues including slow drainage, clogs, and even leaks in the pipes. Common problems often involve the build-up of hair, soap, and other debris within the pipes, causing blockages and backups. In such scenarios, a dependable drain cleaner is invaluable.
When it comes to old pipes, it’s important to choose a drain cleaner that is gentle yet effective. Harsh chemicals can damage the pipes and cause them to fail more quickly. That’s why we recommend the . This drain cleaner uses natural enzymes to break down hair, soap, and other debris, without harming your pipes.
We’ve used this drain cleaner in our own home, and it has worked wonders on our old pipes. It’s easy to use, and you don’t have to worry about wearing gloves or a mask, like you would with some other drain cleaners. Plus, it’s safe to use around pets and children, which is a huge plus for us.
In the next section, we’ll take a closer look at the features and benefits of this drain cleaner, and why it’s the best choice for anyone with old pipes.
Best Drain Cleaners for Old Pipes
When it comes to maintaining old pipes, choosing the right drain cleaner is crucial. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to use. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best drain cleaners for old pipes to help you make an informed decision. Our team has researched and tested various products to ensure that only the most effective and reliable options make it to our list. So, without further ado, here are our top picks for the best drain cleaners for old pipes.
Green Gobbler Enzyme Drain Cleaner
If you’re looking for an eco-friendly and effective drain cleaner, the Green Gobbler Enzyme Drain Cleaner is a great option.
Pros
- The powerful blend of enzymes and bacteria in this drain cleaner eats through hair, grease, food, and other drain clogs.
- It is safe for use on all PVC, PVDF, and CPVC pipes, making it a great option for those with older pipes.
- It is a professional strength formula that is powerful enough to break down hair clogs, but gentle enough for daily use.
Cons
- It may take longer to work than other drain cleaners, as it relies on enzymes to break down the clog.
- It is a bit more expensive than other drain cleaners on the market.
- It may not be as effective on extremely tough clogs as some other drain cleaners.
We have used the Green Gobbler Enzyme Drain Cleaner and found it to be a great option for those looking for an eco-friendly and effective drain cleaner. It is safe for use on all PVC, PVDF, and CPVC pipes, making it a great option for those with older pipes. The powerful blend of enzymes and bacteria in this drain cleaner eats through hair, grease, food, and other drain clogs, making it a great option for those with slow draining sinks or showers.
One downside to this drain cleaner is that it may take longer to work than other drain cleaners, as it relies on enzymes to break down the clog. However, we found that it was effective in breaking down the clog over the course of a few hours. It is also a bit more expensive than other drain cleaners on the market, but we found that the professional strength formula made it worth the investment.
Overall, if you’re looking for an eco-friendly and effective drain cleaner, the Green Gobbler Enzyme Drain Cleaner is a great option to consider.
Zep Drain Defense Pipe Build-Up Remover – 64 Ounces (Case of 2) ZLDC648 – Professional Strength Liquid Pipe Build Up Remover
If you’re looking for a powerful and professional-grade pipe cleaner, Zep Drain Defense Pipe Build-Up Remover is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The formula is designed to attack and dissolve pipe clogs caused by grease, hair, soap, and other organic matter.
- It is safe for use in sink drains, shower drains, and toilet bowls.
- It is easy to use and comes with a built-in measure cup for accurate dispensing.
Cons
- It may not be effective on severe clogs that require professional plumbing services.
- It may not be safe for use in all types of pipes, so it’s essential to read the label carefully before use.
- It may not be the most cost-effective option for frequent use.
Zep Drain Defense Pipe Build-Up Remover is a powerful and effective solution for clearing clogged drains. The formula is designed to attack and dissolve pipe clogs caused by grease, hair, soap, and other organic matter. It is safe for use in sink drains, shower drains, and toilet bowls, making it a versatile option for homeowners.
One of the best things about this product is its ease of use. It comes with a built-in measure cup for accurate dispensing, making it simple to use without any special tools or equipment. However, it may not be effective on severe clogs that require professional plumbing services. Additionally, it may not be safe for use in all types of pipes, so it’s essential to read the label carefully before use.
Overall, Zep Drain Defense Pipe Build-Up Remover is an excellent choice for homeowners looking for a powerful and effective pipe cleaner. While it may not be the most cost-effective option for frequent use, it is a reliable and efficient solution for clearing clogged drains.
Earthworm Fragrance Free Drain Cleaner – Drain Opener – Natural Enzymes, Environmentally Responsible, Safer for Pets and Kids – 1 Half Gallon, 64 oz
If you’re looking for a drain cleaner that is safe for your family and pets, then the Earthworm Fragrance Free Drain Cleaner is a great option.
Pros
- The product is made with natural enzymes, making it safe to use around kids and pets.
- It is effective in breaking down hair, grease, food, and other waste that can clog your drains.
- The product is biodegradable and non-toxic, making it environmentally friendly.
Cons
- The product may take longer to work than other drain cleaners on the market.
- It may not be as effective on heavily clogged drains as other products.
- The product is slightly more expensive than other drain cleaners.
We have used the Earthworm Fragrance Free Drain Cleaner in our home and have been pleased with the results. The product is easy to use and does not have a strong odor like other drain cleaners. We have used it on our kitchen sink and bathroom drains, and it has worked well in both cases.
One thing to note is that the product may take longer to work than other drain cleaners on the market. However, we have found that it is effective in breaking down hair and grease buildup over time. It may not be as effective on heavily clogged drains, but it is a great option for maintaining your drains on a regular basis.
Overall, we would recommend the Earthworm Fragrance Free Drain Cleaner to anyone looking for a safe and effective drain cleaner for their home.
Zep Drain Defense Enzymatic Drain Cleaner Powder 18 Ounces (Case of 2) ZDC16 – Safe for Pipes and Septic Systems
If you’re looking for a drain cleaner that is safe for pipes and septic systems, Zep Drain Defense Enzymatic Drain Cleaner Powder is a great option.
Pros
- The powder formula is easy to use and can be applied directly to the drain without any mixing required.
- The product is safe for use with pipes, septic tanks, and gray water systems, making it a versatile option for homeowners.
- Zep Drain Defense is formulated with enzymes that break down hair, grease, food, and other organic matter, leaving drains free-flowing.
Cons
- The product may take longer to work than traditional liquid drain cleaners, requiring patience and consistent use.
- Some users have reported that the product did not work as effectively as they had hoped, requiring multiple applications to achieve desired results.
- The product is slightly more expensive than some other drain cleaners on the market, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious consumers.
Zep Drain Defense Enzymatic Drain Cleaner Powder is a great option for those who want a safe and effective drain cleaner that can be used with a variety of plumbing systems. The powder formula is easy to use and the product is formulated with enzymes that break down organic matter, leaving drains free-flowing. However, the product may take longer to work than traditional liquid drain cleaners and may require multiple applications to achieve desired results. Overall, if you’re looking for a drain cleaner that is safe for pipes and septic systems, Zep Drain Defense Enzymatic Drain Cleaner Powder is definitely worth considering.
L-Wash Bio-Flow Drain Strips – 12 Strips | Drain Cleaner & Odor Remover Drain Sticks
If you’re looking for a safe and effective way to clean your drains, L-Wash Bio-Flow Drain Strips might be the perfect solution for you.
Pros
- The strips are easy to use and can be activated by simply dropping them into the drain.
- The product is made of natural ingredients, making it safe for pipes and septic tanks.
- The strips can clean drains and remove odors effectively.
Cons
- The product might not be suitable for severe clogs.
- The strips might not work as effectively on larger drains.
- The product might not be as fast-acting as other drain cleaners.
L-Wash Bio-Flow Drain Strips are a great option for those who want a safe and effective way to clean their drains. The strips are easy to use and can be activated by simply dropping them into the drain. The product is made of natural ingredients, making it safe for pipes and septic tanks. Additionally, the strips can clean drains and remove odors effectively.
However, the product might not be suitable for severe clogs. The strips might not work as effectively on larger drains. Additionally, the product might not be as fast-acting as other drain cleaners.
Overall, if you’re looking for a safe and effective way to clean your drains, L-Wash Bio-Flow Drain Strips are definitely worth considering.
Buying Guide
Choosing the Best Drain Cleaner for Old Pipes
When it comes to choosing a drain cleaner for old pipes, there are a few key features to consider. We’ve used a variety of products and have found that the following factors are important in making a good choice.
Type of Drain Cleaner
There are several types of drain cleaners available, including chemical, enzyme-based, and mechanical. Chemical drain cleaners are the most common and are effective at breaking down clogs, but they can also be harsh on pipes and may cause damage over time. Enzyme-based drain cleaners are a safer option, as they use natural enzymes to break down clogs without harming pipes. Mechanical drain cleaners, such as augers and snakes, are effective at removing physical blockages, but may not be suitable for all types of pipes.
Pipe Material
The material of the pipes is an important consideration when choosing a drain cleaner. Old pipes may be made of materials such as cast iron, lead, or PVC, each of which requires a different approach. For example, chemical drain cleaners may be harmful to cast iron pipes, while enzyme-based cleaners may be more effective on PVC pipes.
Safety
Safety is a key concern when using drain cleaners, especially in older homes where pipes may be in poor condition. It’s important to choose a product that is safe for use around people and pets, and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Effectiveness
Finally, it’s important to choose a drain cleaner that is effective at clearing clogs. Look for products that have been tested and proven to be effective, and consider reading reviews from other users to get an idea of how well a product works.
By considering these factors, you can choose a drain cleaner that is safe, effective, and appropriate for your old pipes.
