Clogged shower drains can turn an otherwise enjoyable shower session into an unpleasant task, from slow drainage and unpleasant odors, to potentially costly repairs if left ignored.
Don’t stress–this comprehensive guide will teach you everything you need to unclog your shower drain yourself, prevent future blockages and maintain an uninterrupted plumbing system. Whether you prefer DIY projects or quick solutions, this blog covers everything for both DIY enthusiasts and non-diyers alike!
We will walk you through common causes of blockages, the tools required, step-by-step solutions and when it’s best to call us for professional service. In addition, we’ll share tips to keep your drain clog free indefinitely!
Common Reasons for Shower Drain Blockages (also Known as Clogs or Ingress of water into the drain)
Shower drain clogs don’t happen on their own – here are the leading causes:
Hair
Hair is often to blame when shower drains become blocked, as it combines with soap scum and debris to form insoluble blockages that remain resistant to cleaning processes.
Soap Residue Scum
Over time, soap residue can build up inside pipes and restrict water flow as it accumulates over time.
Mineral Deposits
Hard water may leave behind minerals in your pipes that clog them and reduce water flow, creating blockages and restricting its delivery.
Grease and Oils
Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash often contain oils that adhere to drain walls.
Foreign Objects
Anywhere from bottle caps to small toys could fall down the drain unknowingly and instantly block it up.
Needed Tools for the Job
Before beginning to address a clog, gather these essential tools. They’ll make the task simpler and faster!
- Plungers for drain snakes or wire hangers
- Baking soda and vinegar
- Rubber gloves
- Bucket
- Screwdriver for accessing drain covers
Prep work is key! Making sure everything you need for starting is accessible will save both time and energy later on.
Step-by-Step Guide to Unclog Your Shower Drain
Follow these simple steps to unclog your shower drain effectively:
1. Remove the Drain Cover
Utilize a screwdriver to unlock and remove the drain cover. Inspect for visible debris like hair before using gloves to manually clear away what can be.
2. Apply Plungers
To use a plunger effectively, place it over the drain to form an effective seal, pump up and down several times until water flows freely, checking to see if further pumping up and down steps are needed to restore the proper functioning of the drain. Repeat as necessary.
3. Insert a Drain Snake
When plunging is ineffective, try inserting a drain snake (or straightening wire hangers into an appropriate channel) to clear away the build-up of hair or buildup in your drainpipes. Allow it to slowly connect to any blockages before pulling gently off to free itself of all obstructions.
4. Try Natural Solutions
Plop 1/2 cup of baking soda down your drain followed by 1/2 cup of vinegar and cover it. Allow this solution to fizz away for 30 minutes, before flushing with hot water to flush it away.
5. Once Assembled, Check for Flow
Reassemble. Once the clog has been cleared away, run water through to ensure proper drainage. Replace your drain cover as usual – and that’s it! You are all done!
Natural Solutions to Shower Clogs
Choose eco-friendly solutions? These natural remedies are both harmless to your pipes and effective at dislodging clogs.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
Baking soda and vinegar create an explosive chemical reaction which helps dissolve organic materials clogging your pipes, providing relief.
Boiling Water
Pour boiling water down the drain to melt away grease and dissolve soap scum build-up.
Salt and Baking Soda
Combine 1/2 cup of salt with 1/2 cup of baking soda, pour it down your drain, and follow with hot water to clear away smaller blockages.
Know When It Is Necessary to Hire a Professional Plumber
However, even with your best DIY efforts, certain clogs may prove too severe for even you to handle alone. When this occurs, professional help should be sought:
- Drains continue to run slowly even with multiple attempts at unclogging them.
- Are you experiencing unpleasant odors and hearing gurgling sounds when using other drains in your home?
- Clogged household drains point towards an issue with the main sewer line.
Professional plumbers possess the specialized tools and knowledge required to diagnose and solve these problems quickly, saving both you time and any additional stress or hassles in the future.
Preventative Measures Against Future Clogs
Preventing drain clogs is easier than fixing them; follow these tips for long-term shower drain maintenance:
Install a Drain Cover
Keep hair and larger debris out of drains with an effective drain cover (also called hair catcher). This device allows users to catch hair before it enters them directly down their sink drain.
Flush with Hot Water
Pour hot water down your drain regularly in order to clear away build-up before it occurs and reduce the likelihood of future buildups.
Avoid Chemical Cleaners
Steer clear of harsh chemical drain cleaners as these could eventually deteriorate your pipes over time and prefer natural solutions instead.
Regularly Remove Hair
Regularly remove hair from drain covers in order to avoid build-up of dirt. For optimal performance, brush through hair while taking showers to help avoid accumulation.
Maintain a Clear Shower Drain
Maintenance can go a long way toward keeping your shower drain clear. Regularly check and clean out the drain cover; use a drain snake regularly to clear away minor buildup; and schedule annual plumbing inspections so problems are caught early on.
Maintaining your shower drain is only part of maintaining an attractive and relaxing bathroom environment for you and your family. For optimal cleanliness in the home, professional sofa or carpet cleaning services could make an invaluable difference to home hygiene – not to mention healthier living environments for everyone involved! A cleaner home means healthier surroundings to come home to every day.
Keep Your Drains and Home Running Smoothly
Unclogging a shower drain might seem like an innocuous hassle, but neglect can result in much bigger issues down the line. By understanding its cause promptly taking steps to treat clogs as they arise and adopting preventative measures, smooth drainage without interruption is achievable.
Be sure to rely on professionals like Waseem Sofa and Carpet Cleaners for all of your cleaning needs if you want a spotless home!
Stay proactive by quickly responding to signs of clogs and enjoy enjoyable showering experiences for years!
