Bathroom Plumbing Tips: How To Unclog A Blocked Shower Drain
Posted on: 6 January 2017
Shower drains block often due to the accumulation of hair and small pieces or soap. Plumbing problems in the home such as a clogged sewer line can also slow down the flow of water in your shower drains. Unlike most plumbing issues in the home, clogged shower drains can be easily addressed without calling a plumber. Here are some simple tips and tricks that can help you unclog your shower drains without seeking professional help.
Clean the visible clog
If your shower is clogged due to the accumulation of hair, the chances are that the hair is still stuck on the drain cover. Cleaning out the hair and other materials that are visible on the drain can be the solution to your blocked drains. You will need a pair of gloves and a brush for this task. Carefully remove the drain cover and clean out the visible clog on it using the brush. Once it is clean, replace it and run the shower to confirm that the drains are working properly.
Use boiling water
Sometimes all you need is some boiling water to clear your drains and ease the blockage. Boil a jug of water and carefully pour it into your shower drain. If small pieces of soap caused the obstruction, the water will break them down and unblock the line. You can also mix some vinegar and baking soda in equal parts and send it down the drain after using the hot water. The foam formed by this mixture can dislodge the clog and clean the drains.
Get a plunger
Plungers are not only used for unclogging toilets and blocked sink drains. They can come in handy when dealing with a blocked shower drain too. Remove the drain cover and place the plunger on the mouth of the drain. Run the shower so that the water covers the rubber part of the plunger and plunge into the drain until the water begins to flow properly. When done, replace the drain cover and clean your plunger.
Invest in a drain snake
If none of these techniques work, you can consider purchasing a snake from the local hardware store. A snake is fed into the drain and used to get rid of the clog so that it can move down the main line. Insert the snake into the drain until you feel some resistance from the clog. Push down on the snake, winding it around so that it can loosen the clog. Once the clog loosens, it will go down the drain once you run water in the shower.
If you don't succeed in unblocking your drain after trying these techniques, you should contact your plumber for professional help. You may be dealing with a bigger plumbing problem such as a blocked sewer line.
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