5 Best Drain Cleaners for Cast Iron Pipes in 2024: Reviews & Top Picks
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When it comes to drain cleaners for cast iron pipes, there are many different types and brands available. It can be difficult to know which one is the best for your home or business. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of the five best drain cleaners for cast iron pipes in 2023.
After reviewing each one, you’ll be able to make an informed decision about which one is right for your pipes. Read on to learn more about these drain cleaners and how they can help keep your pipes clean and clear.
A Quick Comparison of Our Winners (2024 Update)
| Rating | Image | Product | Details | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Best Overall
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Zep Drain Defense Enzymatic Drain Cleaner Powder |
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CHECK PRICE |
Best Value
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Rid-X Treatment Enzymes |
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CHECK PRICE |
Premium Choice
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Patriot Chemical |
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CHECK PRICE |
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Black Swan Zap Drain Pipe Opener |
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CHECK PRICE | |
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XionLab Clog Remover, Greener Drain Clog Remover |
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CHECK PRICE |
The 5 Best Drain Cleaners for Cast Iron Pipes
1. Zep Drain Defense Enzymatic Drain Cleaner Powder – Best Overall
The Zep Drain Defense Enzymatic Drain Cleaner Powder is an excellent choice for cast iron pipes. It comes in an 18-ounce container and contains natural bacteria that break down organic waste. This helps to prevent clogs and keep your pipes clear.
This cleaner can be used regularly and is safe for septic systems, as well. It has no harsh chemicals or acids, making it an ideal choice for those who want to keep their pipes in top condition.
- Natural bacteria help break down waste and prevent clogs
- Safe for use in septic systems
- No harsh chemicals or acids
- Slightly more expensive than average drain cleaners
- Cannot use drains for 6–8 hours after using on bad clogs
2. Rid-X Treatment Enzymes – Best Value
Rid-X Treatment Enzymes are designed to break down household waste and help keep your pipes clear. It comes in a 3-month supply of Septi-Pacs that dissolve slowly in water. It contains natural bacteria that feed on organic waste, helping to prevent clogs and overflows.
The product is safe for use in cast iron pipes and can be used every month to keep your pipes clear and running smoothly. Best of all, this is an excellent buy if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option.
- Comes in a 3-month supply
- Easy to use
- Natural bacteria help break down waste and keep pipes clear
- Might not work as well on tougher clogs
- Only used on septic tanks
3. Patriot Chemical – Premium Choice
Patriot Chemical Sales’ 1 Gallon Drain Opener is a powerful, natural solution to clear clogged pipes. It contains 100% active d-limonene, which is derived from oranges and lemons. This all-natural cleaner effectively cuts through grease and buildup in the pipes. It also has a pleasant citrus scent that will leave your pipes smelling fresh.
Plus, it is safe for use on all types of plumbing, including cast iron pipes. It has a longer shelf life than some other drain cleaners and can be used to clear both small and large clogs.
- All-natural ingredients
- Powerful degreaser
- Safe for cast iron pipes
- Expensive
- May need to use it again on stubborn clogs
4. Black Swan Zap Drain Pipe Opener
Another good choice for unclogging cast iron pipes is the Black Swan Zap Drain Pipe Opener. Many people use this option on clogs that are varied—hair, napkins, food, etc. Black Swan has also gotten praise for being effective on all levels of clogs, from mild to stubborn.
However, the main downfall to this product is that it is not eco-friendly. The formula uses harsh chemicals and the bottle is not biodegradable, which may be an important factor when selecting a drain clean for cast iron pipes.
- 100% satisfaction guarantee
- Effective on various clog-causes
- Quite strong odor
- Formula uses harsh chemicals
5. XionLab Clog Remover
Next up is XionLab’s Clog Remover. This industrial-strength liquid drain cleaner is designed to break up tough clogs caused by hair and grease. It’s safe for use in septic systems and won’t cause any odors or damage to your pipes.
What’s more, it’s biodegradable and won’t cause any harm to the environment. It’s also safe for use in cast iron pipes, so you can be sure it will keep your pipes clean and clear.
- Strong enough to break up tough clogs caused by hair and grease
- Septic safe, odorless, and biodegradable
- Safe for use in cast iron pipes
- Might not break up tougher clogs
Buyer’s Guide: Picking the Best Drain Cleaner For Cast Iron Pipes
When it comes to maintaining the plumbing in your home, there are a few materials that you have to consider. Cast iron pipes are one of the most durable and reliable materials out there, but they also require regular maintenance to keep them functioning properly.
So before you invest in a drain cleaner, you need to know what to look for. Here are some tips to help you choose the best drain cleaner for cast iron pipes.
- For starters, choose a product that is formulated specifically for use with cast iron pipes. Standard cleaners are not as effective on these materials and may cause more damage than good.
- You also want to look for a product that has powerful ingredients to help dissolve clogs quickly and naturally. A combination of enzymes, baking soda, and vinegar can be very effective at breaking down tough clogs.
- Make sure the cleaner you choose is safe to use on your pipes. Check the labels of all products before using them to ensure they are compatible with cast iron materials.
- If possible, be sure to choose a product that will not only clean the drains but also help condition the pipes. This will help to prevent corrosion and keep your pipes in optimal condition.
- And lastly, make sure you read the instructions carefully before using any product. Follow all safety protocols when working with chemical cleaners to avoid injury or damage.
By following these tips, you can be sure that you are choosing a drain cleaner that is specifically designed for cast iron pipes. This will ensure that your pipes remain in optimal condition, and you don’t have to worry about any lasting damage to your home’s plumbing system.
Conclusion
Now that you have read about the top five best drain cleaners for cast iron pipes in 2023, it’s time to make a decision. The Zep Drain Defense is our top pick for its powerful formula that can unclog even the toughest of clogs and leave your sinks and drains shining like new.
For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, Rid-X Treatment Enzymes is a great choice for its efficacy in treating tough clogs.
But if you want the highest-quality cleaner on the market, Patriot Chemical’s drain cleaner is an excellent choice and will keep your pipes clean and clear for years to come. No matter which one you choose, any of these cleaners will be sure to have your pipes as good as new.
Featured Image Credit: onebit, Shutterstock
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