How to Clean Out a Drain With Enzymes

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Enzymes help prevent clogs and keep drains clean.

Enzyme drain cleaners are a natural and eco-friendly way to clean pipes, drains and prevent clogs. The enzymes work to remove buildup by eating through it. Monthly use of the enzyme drain cleaners can prevent clogs from forming. If your drain has already become clogged or backed up, an enzyme cleaner is not the route to take. Enzyme cleaners take time to work through the drain and eat the buildup, meaning they will take far too long to eat through a clogged drain.

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Step 1

Combine an enzyme drain cleaner with lukewarm water. Lukewarm water is the perfect condition for the enzymes to thrive in, whereas cold water restricts their growth and hot water can kill them. Follow the manufacturer's directions for how much water to dilute the enzyme drain cleaner in. It's typically around 1 tbsp. of enzyme drain cleaner per cup of water.

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Step 2

Pour the enzyme cleaner down the drain.

Step 3

Allow the enzymes to work into the drain for several hours, preferably between eight and 24 hours. Do not turn the water on or flush the enzymes. Water will push the enzymes through the drain, thus eliminating them.

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Step 4

Heat a gallon of hot water on the stove or in the kettle. Just before the water begins boiling, pour it down the drain. The hot water will also help push any clog through the drain.

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