Clogged shower drains can be a frustrating and unpleasant problem. Not only do they make it difficult to take a shower, but they can also lead to bad odors and even water damage. If you’re dealing with a clogged shower drain, there are a few things you can do to try to unclog it yourself. However, if you’ve tried all of the home remedies and your drain is still clogged, it’s time to call a plumber. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the most common causes of clogged shower drains. Finally, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to unclog a shower drain yourself,
Clogged shower drains are a common problem that can be caused by a variety of factors. Some of the most common causes include hair, soap scum, and mineral deposits. Hair is the most common culprit, as it can easily accumulate in the drain and form a clog. Soap scum can also build up over time and create a blockage. Mineral deposits can also be a problem, especially in areas with hard water. Over time, these deposits can build up and restrict the flow of water through the drain.
If you’re dealing with a clogged shower drain, there are a few things you can do to try to unclog it yourself. First, try using a drain snake. A drain snake is a long, flexible tool that can be inserted into the drain to break up clogs. If that doesn’t work, you can try using a chemical drain cleaner. Chemical drain cleaners are harsh chemicals that can dissolve clogs. However, it’s important to use them according to the directions and to be aware of the potential hazards.
Gather Necessary Tools and Materials
Essential Tools
* Channellock Pliers: Robust pliers with serrated jaws for gripping and loosening drain stoppers.
* Flathead Screwdriver: A sturdy tool for unscrewing hidden mounting screws beneath drain covers.
* Allen Wrench: A hexagonal wrench for removing drain covers that require specific socket sizes.
* Wet/Dry Vacuum: For removing excess water and debris from the drain and surrounding area.
* Drain Auger: A flexible, cable-like tool for retrieving hair and other obstructions from clogged drains.
Materials
* Drain Stopper: A replacement drain stopper for damaged or worn-out ones.
* Plumber’s Putty: A sealant used to create a watertight seal around the base of drain covers.
* Rubber Gloves: Protective gloves for handling wet and potentially sharp objects.
* Flashlight: For illuminating dark corners or hidden screws beneath drain covers.
* Towels or Rags: For absorbing excess water and cleaning up spills.
Drain Sizes and Socket Types
| Drain Size | Socket Type |
|---|---|
| 1¼ inches | Hexagonal |
| 1½ inches | Square |
| 2 inches | Triangle |
How To Get A Shower Drain Out
If your shower drain is clogged, there are a few things you can do to try and clear it yourself before calling a plumber. First, try plunging the drain. To do this, fill the sink or bathtub with water and then place the plunger over the drain. Push and pull the plunger up and down vigorously for several minutes. If this doesn’t work, you can try using a drain snake. A drain snake is a long, flexible tool that can be inserted into the drain to break up clogs. To use a drain snake, simply insert the snake into the drain and turn the handle to feed the snake into the pipe. Once the snake has reached the clog, turn the handle in the opposite direction to break up the clog. If plunging and snaking the drain doesn’t work, you may need to remove the drain cover and clean it. To do this, use a screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the drain cover in place. Once the drain cover is removed, you can use a wire brush to clean the drainpipe. Be sure to rinse the drainpipe thoroughly with water after cleaning it.
People Also Ask About How To Get A Shower Drain Out
How do you remove a shower drain stopper?
Most shower drain stoppers can be removed by simply pulling them up. If the stopper is stuck, you can try using a pair of pliers to grip the stopper and pull it up. If the stopper is still stuck, you may need to use a drain snake to remove it.
How do you clean a slow shower drain?
There are a few things you can do to clean a slow shower drain. First, try plunging the drain. To do this, fill the sink or bathtub with water and then place the plunger over the drain. Push and pull the plunger up and down vigorously for several minutes. If this doesn’t work, you can try using a drain snake. A drain snake is a long, flexible tool that can be inserted into the drain to break up clogs. To use a drain snake, simply insert the snake into the drain and turn the handle to feed the snake into the pipe. Once the snake has reached the clog, turn the handle in the opposite direction to break up the clog.
How do you unclog a shower drain with baking soda and vinegar?
To unclog a shower drain with baking soda and vinegar, first pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain. Then, pour 1/2 cup of vinegar down the drain. The baking soda and vinegar will react to create a fizzing action that will help to break up the clog. Let the baking soda and vinegar sit in the drain for 15 minutes, then flush the drain with hot water.
