Sodium Chloride (NaCl)
sodium chloride (NaCl), or common salt, can be used for cleaning drains/pipes (“granage” likely refers to “drainage”) due to its abrasive nature and ability to dissolve grease and fats.
How it Works
When used for cleaning drainage lines, salt is typically poured into the drain at night. This timing is suggested because water flow and waste are minimal overnight, allowing the salt to remain in contact with the clogging material for a longer duration, increasing its effectiveness. The primary functions in this context are:
- Abrasive Action: The granular form of salt acts as a physical abrasive that helps to scrub away dirt, grime, and other buildup from the pipe walls.
- Dissolving Grease/Fats: While not as potent as sodium hydroxide (a different compound often found in strong chemical cleaners), sodium chloride, particularly when combined with other agents like hot water, helps break down grease and fatty deposits.
- Dehydration: Salt removes water from bacteria through osmosis, preventing microbial growth that might contribute to odors or buildup.
Important Considerations
- Corrosion: Sodium chloride can accelerate the corrosion of metal pipes over time.
- Septic Systems: Using large amounts of salt might disrupt the balance of septic systems.
- Effectiveness: It may not be effective for severe or solid blockages and works best as a preventative measure or for minor clogs.
- Safety: When handling industrial quantities of sodium chloride, it’s important to use gloves to prevent skin dryness and manage spills properly.