Significance

• Any drain cleaner, whether it is chemical-based or not, can harm your trees and lawn if used improperly. Trees can seem like a permanent fixture because they are large and imposing, but the smallest pests and chemicals can easily destroy them. Any substance that is not naturally occurring will kill your trees given large enough amounts and prolonged exposure, but some drain cleaners are more hazardous than others. Three main types of drain cleaners are used: enzyme based, chemical based and a combination. Each works differently and poses individual risks to your trees.
  
  

Enzyme-based Cleaners

• Enzyme-based cleaners work by injecting your pipes with a special type of protein that combines with organic matter to convert waste into simple materials such as fatty acids and alcohols. These waste products dissolve in your pipes and can be flushed through your system with water. Compared to chemical cleaners, enzyme cleaners are gentle on your pipes. They are also nontoxic, nonflammable and contain no volatile compounds. Enzyme-based cleaners assist the natural decomposition of waste material throughout your entire septic system. This process discourages the invasive growth of tree root systems in your pipes.This root pruning can have a detrimental effect on your trees if they are not otherwise receiving a sufficient supply of nutrients. Also, the regular use of enzyme cleaners can upset the pH and nutrient balance of your soil, indirectly affecting the health of your trees.
  
  

Chemical Drain Cleaners

• Chemical cleaners are made from caustic chemicals such as sodium hydroxide (lye), sulfuric acid and hydrochloric acid, which break down material indiscriminately. For example, sodium hydroxide eats through animal and plant tissue as well as plastic and metals. These chemical cleaners are harmful to your pipes, which means there is a higher risk of wearing down a pipe and exposing your lawn to chemically-treated water. And they do not distinguish between living and dead tissue, so they can prune without regard for the life processes of your lawn and trees. Chemical drain cleaners also harm the helpful bacterial colonies that keep your septic system functioning properly, which can lead to septic system failure and contamination of your lawn.
  
  

Prevention

• You can easily save your trees from drain cleaners by following some common sense rules. Always follow the directions on the label; don't assume more cleaner is better. Dispose of unused chemicals and empty bottles properly. Never use ordinary household drain cleaners in an RV or portable toilet. And coordinate landscaping and home design plans to leave enough space for a septic system; keep these plans in a safe place so that you can review the implications of a new project on plumbing, grading and permanent structures.