Does sodium hydroxide damage PVC?

Lye is an incredibly basic, alkaline metal compound (sodium hydroxide), often used as a soap for cleaning purposes. This caustic can deteriorate metal piping and, in some forms, as when mixed with an aluminum compound to increase its cleaning power, can easily generate enough heat to warp or deform PVC piping.

Is sodium hydroxide safe for PVC pipes?

A: In general it is safe to use on PVC pipe. The active ingredient in Drano is sodium hydroxide (lye) and it doesn’t react chemically with the plastic pipe. However, when the drano is mixed with water you get an exothermic reaction that can melt some plastics from the heat released.

Is caustic soda safe for drains?

Drano is a popular product, so caustic soda is definitely effective for clearing drains. If you don’t want to use a commercial drain cleaner, though, you could go to the store and buy caustic soda crystals to put down your drain, or you could even make your own by electrolyzing a salt solution.

Does caustic soda react with plastic?

Caustic soda doesn’t react with stainless steel making stainless steel drums, tanks and pipelines the standard in the industry. However, caustic soda does interact with some plastics and can corrode the walls of containers or bags constructed of plastic causing dangerous leaks or spills.

How do you keep PVC pipes clean?

If you prefer, you can also use one of these homemade drain-cleaning solutions:

1. Pour 1/2 cup of salt down the drain, followed by boiling water. Flush the drain with hot water.
2. Sprinkle a cup of baking soda into your drain along with a cup of vinegar.
3. Combine 1 cup of baking soda with 1/2 cup of salt.

How long can you leave caustic soda in drain?

Caustic soda is extremely dangerous if it gets on your skin or in your eyes. After 2 minutes flush the drain with hot water again and wash it all away. If your drain is still blocked you should call a plumber or professional drain cleaning company such as DrainBoss 03302235789.