Cast iron pipes made up a majority of sewage lines for years, and many homes still have cast iron pipes in their plumbing system. When cast iron pipes become clogged, you need to find a drain cleaner that works especially well on cast iron.
In this PlumbingNav review, we will cover:
Why do cast iron pipes need specific drain cleaners?
What are the different types of drain cleaners for cast iron pipes?
How do drain cleaners for cast iron pipes work?
What do you look for in the best drain cleaners for cast iron pipes?
Review of the best drain cleaners for cast iron pipes
Zep’s enzymatic powder drain cleaner breaks through water, carbon dioxide, and minerals to break up natural materials in sinks, toilets, and septic systems using cellulose, amylase, lipase, and protease enzymes.
If you have a stubborn clog, pour the powder down the drain, avoid using the drain for 6 – 8 hours, then rinse with hot water. Do this again three days in a row then regularly every month to keep up on maintenance.
Why Do Cast Iron Pipes Need Specific Drain Cleaners?
Many municipalities used cast iron pipes thanks to their numerous benefits but eventually found alternative options. These were largely phased out around 1980. However, many homes still have cast iron, especially when it comes to the septic tank and main sewer line laterals.
Cast iron pipes usually last 60 years. However, that varies based on usage and plumbing maintenance, especially use of chemical drain cleaners.
Cast iron plumbing tends to experience corrosion more often than other types of pipes. This means that it’s especially important to use a drain cleaner that won’t expedite the process, considering many drain cleaners come in the form of a liquid.
What Are The Different Types Of Drain Cleaners For Cast Iron Pipes?
Chemical Drain Cleaner
A chemical drain cleaner uses chemicals to eat at the clog. Chemical cleaners can use a number of different types of chemicals to attack the clog, with some more effective or damaging to the plumbing than others. Always try the safest method first when exploring how to clean a cast iron sewer pipe.
These drain cleaners may not handle the toughest clogs on main lines, but they work great as maintenance to prevent clogs from happening in the first place.
How Do Drain Cleaners For Cast Iron Pipes Work?
The drain cleaner eats at the clog, breaking it up slowly until it finally deteriorates enough for water to flow through it again. For cast iron, the goal is to do this while using a cleaning product that won’t also assist in the corrosion of the pipe itself.
Pour the cleaner down the drain and follow up by pouring hot water or boiling water down the drain. Always read the instructions on the cleaner carefully as they vary slightly from cleanser to cleanser. Most cleaners will indicate if they are adequate for cast iron pipes.
What Do You Look For In The Best Drain Cleaners For Cast Iron Pipes?
Guarantee/Warranty
The best drain cleaning products for cast iron will come with a guarantee that the product will work as expected on your type of pipes or your money back. Of course, if the drain cleaner is rated safe for PVC it will be fine to use on cast iron as well.
Keep in mind that most warranties and guarantees will not cover the product if you don’t use it as instructed. It also won’t cover any pipes that become damaged.
Environmentally Friendly
We have a responsibility as consumers to make responsible decisions by purchasing items from companies that make a point to reduce their carbon footprint by using efficient manufacturing processes and recyclable packaging.
Best Cast Iron Pipes Drain Cleaners Reviewed
Now let’s explore our favorite products, so you can decide on the perfect choice for your situation.
Zep’s enzymatic powder drain cleaner breaks through water, carbon dioxide, and minerals to break up natural materials in sinks, toilets, and septic systems using cellulose, amylase, lipase, and protease enzymes.
If you have a stubborn clog, pour the powder down the drain, avoid using the drain for 6 – 8 hours, then rinse with hot water. Do this again three days in a row then regularly every month to keep up on maintenance.
This septic tank drain cleaner made by the trusted Rid-X brand won’t break the bank, and you can use this three-month supply. Enzymes will eat at clogs made from paper, protein, oils, and grease while contributing to the natural items in your septic tank that help it function properly.
One pouch works on septic tanks up to 1500 gallons.
Despite the name, this Patriot Chemical Sales liquid cleanser uses 100% D-Limonene that does not contain chemicals and is safe for use in a washing machine, grease trap, septic tank, and pipes of all materials, including PVC pipe and cast iron pipe.
It has multiple different uses, too, and a pleasant citrus smell. It also comes in a biodegradable container.
This heavy gel liquid cleaner works on hair, grease, soap scum, and oil. It’s safe for the bathroom sink, kitchen sink, shower, and septic tank. Don’t worry about using the smaller 32 oz. bottle for a single-use application since this product comes in a biodegradable bottle.
This small, family-owned business also contributes a portion of its profits to non-profit organizations as part of its dedication to both the environment and the community.
Pros
Sinks through the water to the clog
100% money-back guarantee
Industrial-strength yet safe for septic system
Cons
Not suited for paper, plastic, or food particles
Smaller 32 oz. bottle not suited for large, commercial tasks
Black Swan makes this sulfuric acid drain cleaner that works on mild to stubborn clogs in the bathroom, bathtub, kitchen sink, and toilet. It can eat through food, hair, paper, sanitary napkins, fats, and grease. This product also comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Pros
Includes plastic snake to help
Non-flammable
Appropriate for commercial use
Cons
Uses harsh chemicals
Small 32 oz non-biodegradable container
Toxic and requires safety gear to use
Final Thoughts On Drain Cleaners For Cast Iron Pipes
If you have plumbing problems thanks to a clogged pipe, you need to handle the problem before you need professional pipe repair. However, old sewer pipe materials such as cast iron pipes require specialized care thanks to their susceptibility to corrosion and other damage.
Our review of the top 5 drain cleaners for cast iron pipes can ensure you have clean drains and don’t damage your pipes. These will work on many of the clogs you’ll encounter, but for tougher clogs you might need to buy a plumbing snake.
Need more power to clear the blockage? No problem. See this post for options:
