Chemical drain cleaners are a convenient and popular do-it-yourself option to break up clogs in your pipes. It works by eating away at organic tissue that may be stuck. Some drain cleans on the market could cause severe damage to your home’s plumbing system and should only be used as a last resort by a professional. This type of product is not designed for frequent use and, over time, could cause longer, more extensive problems. Additionally, if left inside drains for longer than the maximum dwell time, it could severely damage the pipes.