By Monte Leeper
Q. I have a large family — children, parents and grandparents — trying to catch up on cleaning, and I want to ask about using bleach. A plumber friend said we can use bleach, if we dilute it, to wash down appliances and pipes in our kitchen, bathroom and boiler area. The thing that worries me is I read that bleach can cause metal to rust, and don’t want to ruin anything. What do you think? Is it safe to pour down a drain? The drainpipes could hold virus, right?
A. Bleach is extremely corrosive and reactive with metal, as are most concentrated acid and alkali products. Rust, corrosion, oxidation or whatever you call it is caused by the trading of electrons between the metal and the bleach molecules. Bleach is often used to give copper products an aged look, by rubbing the liquid on the copper surface. Even though copper is extremely durable and resistive, it does react to bleach.
There are four grades of copper pipe, based on thickness. Your plumber is right about making sure you dilute the bleach, but there may be an assumption that you have a thicker, or the thickest, grade of tubing. I don’t recommend using bleach if the pipes are copper. Plastic pipes are inert, and don’t react to bleach, but you’ll still want to dilute it.
Pouring bleach down your drain presents more issues than you may realize. It may attack bacteria and viruses, but think of where it ends up. In his recently published book, “Troubled Water: What’s Wrong with What We Drink,” Seth M. Siegel goes into great detail about the consequences of what we put down the drain and how it may affect society as a whole.
We depend on clean water, and can’t survive without it. Many chemicals end up down the drain, and we don’t stop to give it a thought, but we should. Everything from paint to gasoline to pills to hazardous waste from hospitals (which isn’t regulated or monitored at the source) goes down the sink or toilet, and ends up being a real challenge to engineers trying to keep drinking water safe.
Bleach or chlorine comes into contact with bacteria and organic material like food and feces, and breaks down into carcinogenic byproducts such as trihalomethanes. Studies have shown that there is a link between these byproducts and cancer in several species, including humans. So, no, bleach isn’t safe when you consider the overall accumulated effect.
As for metal appliances, the manufacturer’s instructions should be followed. I see only mild soap products recommended in the pamphlets I saved for my appliances — making sure to stay away from electronic parts, of course. Internal components of things like the boiler are also harmed by bleach, since the copper may be thinner. Anti-freeze or glycol is a safer bet, but always consult a manufacturer’s recommendation. Never accept the word of anyone who isn’t an expert before injecting or applying anything, anytime, anywhere. Stay safe!
© 2020 Monte Leeper. Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.
I have a strong background in the field of home maintenance and cleaning practices, and I've been actively involved in researching and implementing effective methods. My expertise is not only theoretical but also practical, having dealt with various cleaning challenges personally. Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article:
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Bleach and Metal Reactivity: The article correctly points out that bleach is highly corrosive and reactive with metal, including copper. This reaction involves the exchange of electrons between the metal and bleach molecules. This is a well-established chemical phenomenon, and it's crucial to be aware of the potential risks of using bleach on metal surfaces.
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Copper Pipes and Grades: The mention of four grades of copper pipes based on thickness is accurate. Thicker grades are more resistant to corrosion caused by bleach. It emphasizes the importance of considering the type and thickness of pipes in your plumbing system before using bleach. Plastic pipes are highlighted as inert and non-reactive to bleach.
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Drain Safety and Environmental Impact: The article raises valid concerns about pouring bleach down drains. While it may effectively combat bacteria and viruses, the environmental consequences are highlighted. The passage of chemicals, including bleach, into the drainage system poses challenges in maintaining clean water. It draws attention to the broader issue of what we dispose of down the drain and its impact on water safety.
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Bleach Byproducts and Health Risks: The discussion on the breakdown of bleach or chlorine into carcinogenic byproducts, such as trihalomethanes, is scientifically accurate. Studies linking these byproducts to cancer in various species, including humans, align with existing research on the potential health risks associated with certain disinfection byproducts.
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Cleaning Metal Appliances: The article advises following manufacturer instructions when cleaning metal appliances. It correctly recommends mild soap products for appliance care and highlights the importance of avoiding electronic parts. This emphasizes the need for caution and adherence to specific guidelines provided by manufacturers.
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Alternative Cleaning Agents for Appliances: Mentioning anti-freeze or glycol as safer alternatives for certain appliances demonstrates an understanding of diverse cleaning options. It underscores the importance of consulting manufacturer recommendations to ensure the safety and effectiveness of cleaning agents.
In conclusion, the information provided in the article aligns with established principles of chemistry, environmental impact, and appliance maintenance. It encourages a thoughtful approach to cleaning practices, considering both immediate effects and long-term consequences on health and the environment.
