How To Unclog A Shower Drain Yourself
Showering with their favourite products is an essential part of most people’s self-care routine. However, all those body washes, exfoliants, shampoos, and hair can cause a buildup in shower drains. If water stays on the floor during showers, it clearly indicates that the drain is clogged. Immediate attention becomes valuable in such situations. It helps prevent the discomfort of standing in a puddle of water while showering or waiting for it to drain afterwards.
Clearing blockages from the drains and pipes is paramount for keeping the water flowing. It will help prevent issues such as leaks, mould, bad odours, pests, etc. As soon as homeowners notice a drainage problem, they must start with a simple solution before considering other options, such as hiring professionals. Here is how to unclog a shower drain yourself. These solutions are perfect for ensuring a pleasant shower experience.
1. Unclog the Drain With Boiling Water
Clogging is typically caused by soap, grease, scum, hair, and other remnants. So, it is possible to dissolve clogs easily by just pouring hot water down the drain before running some water in the shower to confirm the clog has cleared. Individuals can do so even without removing the drain cover.
However, avoid pouring hot water down PVC pipes because the heat can damage them. Depending on the severity of the clog, this simple solution may or may not work. But it is still worth a try, especially for budget bond cleaning Port Macquarie.
2. Clear Out Debris from Drains
In case boiling water does help unclog the drain, the issue may be a soapy cluster of tangled hair that can be easily pulled out with the use of fingers. Pulling it out is also possible, even if there is standing water in the shower, provided that the water is not too warm to touch.
Individuals who are unable to reach the clog with their fingers should pry up or unscrew the drain cover. Next, ensure a wire coat hanger is straightened out and remember to make a small hook at the end. Put it into the shower drain and get the debris out. If required, utilise a flashlight to see into the drain.
After removing as much debris as possible, pour boiling water once again. Follow up by replacing the drain cover before running water to figure out whether or not the clog has cleared.
3. Use a DIY Cleaning Solution
If the shower is still draining relatively slowly or there is a lot of grime after clearing out the hair, deep cleaning will be necessary. It will address the buildup in the pipes while targeting grime. Bond cleaning Port Macquarie experts following these steps:
- Pour 1 cup of white vinegar down the drain
- Add 2 tablespoons of baking soda
- Once a reaction starts, add an additional cup of white vinegar to intensify it
- Allow both ingredients to sit there for at least 30 seconds
- Turn the shower on to rinse vinegar and baking soda properly
- Let the shower run for a minute so that water completely fills the pipes
4. Clear the Clog Using a Plunger
Using a plunger is another very effective way to clear shower drain clogs. Start by taking out the drain cover before putting the plunger’s rubber cup over the drain opening. Next, individuals should apply some petroleum jelly to the cup’s edge in case they are having trouble getting a good seal. Run sufficient water in the shower stall to ensure the cup’s lip is covered. Move the handle of the plunger up and down quickly. Finally, run the water in the shower again to confirm the drain is unclogged.
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5. Utilise a Plumber’s Snake to Unclog the Drain
In a few cases, using a drain snake is advisable. Simply insert it into the drain until it reaches the clog. Move the handle clockwise to hook the clogs and keep running the snake into the drain. After a while, you will start to feel resistance, which means the snake is picking up clogs. Reduced resistance usually means that the drain is cleared out. Turn the handle again to guarantee the clog is hooked before turning it counterclockwise and getting it out. Once it is out, eliminate the debris. Run warm water down the drain to figure out if the clog is completely gone or not.
6. Prevent Buildup Around the Drain
When it comes to preventing drainage issues, bond cleaning Port Macquarie professionals recommend cleaning around the drain frequently. Removing pieces of hair is also important. Investing in drain cover is crucial, especially for people with long hair or who have pets. Once every month, pouring a cup of white vinegar and a tablespoon of baking soda into the drain is ideal. This green cleaning tip works for any buildup of shampoos and soaps.
Simple Steps to Fix a Clogged Shower Drain
Wrapping up
Dealing with a clogged shower drain is never pleasant. However, there are plenty of easy-to-follow methods, such as the ones mentioned above, to fix this issue. In case you are having trouble, it would be better to hire a professional plumber.