Want to learn how to unclog shower drain blockages? This article gives you four simple methods to try.
You might be familiar with the occasional clogged shower drain, made worse because many have no idea what to do about it. You can’t just run the water, and everything will work again – that’s not how it works! But you don’t have to worry about these pesky clogs when you try out these four simple methods to unclog shower drain blockages.
Why do Clogs Happen in the First Place?
One of the most common reasons clogs occur in shower drains is the buildup of soap in the drain. Soap residue and hair can form a clog when combined with water. This can cause the pipe to become blocked, preventing water from flowing properly. This is why regular drain cleaning services are critical.
What to do if you Suspect a Clogged Shower Drain?
First thing’s first: If you’re experiencing problems with your shower, it might be time to check out the drain. Clumps of hair are the most common culprit for clogged drains, but other things can get stuck there. If nothing is visible outside the grate or plug, you can try removing it and looking into the drain hole if necessary.
Next: If you suspect that your shower drain is clogged, the first thing you should do is double-check that your drain is open. You’ll need to inspect the stopper and pipe close to the shower head to do this. If there’s room for water to flow between the plug and line, your drain is likely clogged.
4 Simple Methods to Unclog Shower Drain
Showering can be a relaxing experience, but it can also be frustrating when your shower drainage is slow or clogged. However, you can use a few simple methods to unclog your shower drain.
- Remove the clog by hand: An obstruction can be visible on the surface and is easily accessible. Put on a pair of rubber gloves and do your best to remove the clog. Small metal hooks made from a coat hanger are great just for this purpose, so your hands won’t get wet or dirty.
If the clog is more difficult to remove, try using a plunger or an auger. But, be careful not to damage the pipe or surrounding area.
- Use a drain snake: A drain snake, often identified as a plumber’s snake, is a piece of convenient, extendable drilling equipment available at hardware stores. You’ll use the snake’s hand crank to send a metal wire down your drain to extract whatever is clogging it.
Again, it’s important to use the right snake for the job; avoid using a drain snake designed for removing tree roots. The most common type of drain snake is the bendable type, which can go down drains as small as 1-1/2 inches in diameter.
- Use a pot of boiling water: If there are no visible obstacles and a drain snake hasn’t worked, contact with hot water can assist dissolve softer build-up like soap scum around the drain’s edges.
Repeat filling a pot with water and dumping it down the drain. Call a plumber if the obstruction is still not cleared after 30 minutes.
- Use a natural drain cleaner: If you want to clean your drains in a safe and natural method, choose a drain cleaner composed entirely of natural materials. While there are a few exceptions, most all-natural drain cleaners are safe to use and will not damage your pipes.
They also have a pleasant odor, so you won’t have to worry about the smell of bleach or other chemicals. Use an apple cider vinegar-based drain cleaner if you want an all-natural, effective, and safe drain cleaner.
Let us Help you fix Your Shower With Quick Solutions From our Team of Plumbers
Do you need a hand to unclog shower drain blockages? Don’t panic! Contact Custom Plumbing of Arizona today, and we can help you get the problem fixed as fast as possible.
We have decades of experience dealing with all types of plumbing issues, so we are sure to be able to handle the situation quickly and efficiently. Don’t wait – call us today!