5 Simple Steps To Drain Out Your Shower

How to remove drain from shower

Dealing with a clogged shower drain is a common household problem that can be both frustrating and time-consuming. Standing water, slow drainage, and foul odors can make your daily routine miserable. However, there are a few simple steps you can take to unclog your shower drain without resorting to harsh chemicals or expensive plumbing services. In this guide, we will provide you with a step-by-step process on how to effectively remove drain blockages and restore your shower to its optimal functionality.

Firstly, it’s crucial to determine the cause of the clog. Hair, soap scum, and other debris can accumulate over time and form a blockage in the drain. If the clog is caused by a buildup of hair, you can try using a drain snake or hair catcher to remove it. Drain snakes are long, flexible tools with a hook or brush on the end that can reach deep into the drain and dislodge hair. Hair catchers are small devices that can be placed over the drain to prevent hair from entering the drain in the first place.

If the clog is caused by soap scum or mineral buildup, you can try using a chemical drain cleaner. However, it’s important to use caution when using chemical drain cleaners, as they can be harmful to your health and the environment. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and be sure to ventilate the area well when using these products. If you’re not comfortable using chemical drain cleaners, you can try using a natural drain cleaner such as baking soda and vinegar.

Identify the Type of Drain

Identifying the type of drain in your shower is crucial before attempting to remove it. Here are the common types of shower drains you may encounter:

Pop-Up Drain

Pop-up drains have a plunger-like mechanism that opens and closes the drain. They are generally made of metal or plastic and feature a lift rod that raises and lowers the plunger. To identify a pop-up drain, check for a small button or lever on the top of the drain cover that releases the plunger.

Toe-Touch Drain

Toe-touch drains are similar to pop-up drains, but they are operated by pressing down on the drain cover with your toe. They also have a plunger mechanism that opens and closes the drain. Toe-touch drains are typically found in modern showers and bathtubs.

Linear Drain

Linear drains, also known as trench drains, are long, narrow drains that run along the length of the shower floor. They are often used in high-end bathrooms and feature a minimalistic, contemporary look. Linear drains are typically covered with a grate or tile that blends seamlessly with the shower floor.

Other less common types of shower drains include square or round drains with removable screens or strainers, and shower drains with built-in hair catchers.

Drain Type	Mechanism	Operation Method
Pop-Up Drain	Plunger	Lift rod
Toe-Touch Drain	Plunger	Toe press
Linear Drain	Grate/Tile	Water flows through gaps

Gather Necessary Tools

Before embarking on the task of removing the drain from your shower, it is crucial to assemble the necessary tools. These tools will ensure a smooth and efficient process.

Essential Tools:

Here is a comprehensive list of the essential tools you will need:

Drain wrench: A specialized wrench designed to loosen and tighten drain fittings.
Adjustable pliers: Versatile pliers that can be used to grip and rotate various objects.
Plumber’s putty or silicone sealant: A waterproof adhesive used to seal the drain around the shower floor.
Small bucket or bowl: To collect water and debris while working.
Flashlight or headlamp: To illuminate dark areas under the shower.
Safety glasses: To protect your eyes from flying debris or chemicals.
Gloves: To protect your hands from dirt and chemicals.
Scrub brush or scouring pad: To clean the drain and surrounding area.

Optional Tools:

While not essential, the following tools can be helpful:

Drain auger: A long, flexible rod with a hook or corkscrew attachment for removing clogs.
Hair strainer: A device that prevents hair and debris from clogging the drain.
Shop vacuum: To remove water and debris from the drain area.

Remove the Drain Grate

The drain grate is the removable cover that sits over the drain opening. To remove it, you will need a pair of pliers or a screwdriver.

If your drain grate is held in place by screws, simply use a screwdriver to remove them. Once the screws are removed, you can lift the grate off of the drain.

If your drain grate is held in place by clips, you will need to use a pair of pliers to remove them. Gently pry the clips open with the pliers and then lift the grate off of the drain.

Once the drain grate is removed, you can begin cleaning the drain.

Tools You Will Need:

Screwdriver	Pliers
Cloth or Sponge	Drain Cleaner

Unscrew the Drain Plug

The drain plug is usually located in the center of the drain. It is typically made of metal or plastic and has a slotted head. To unscrew the drain plug, you will need a screwdriver or a pair of pliers.

If the drain plug is made of metal, you can use a screwdriver to unscrew it. Simply insert the screwdriver into the slot in the head of the drain plug and turn it counterclockwise. If the drain plug is made of plastic and has a slotted head, you can insert a flat-head screwdriver into the slot and turn it counterclockwise. It is recommended using a screwdriver with a plastic handle, as a metal handle can scratch the tub or shower floor.

If the drain plug is made of plastic and has a Phillips head, you will need to use a Phillips head screwdriver to unscrew it. Insert the screwdriver into the Phillips head and turn it counterclockwise.

If you do not have a screwdriver, you can use a pair of pliers to unscrew the drain plug. Simply grip the head of the drain plug with the pliers and turn it counterclockwise.

Once you have unscrewed the drain plug, you can remove it from the drain.

Tool	Type of Drain Plug Head
Flat-head screwdriver	Slotted head
Phillips head screwdriver	Phillips head
Pliers	Any type of head

Clean the Drain Stopper

The drain stopper is an essential component of any shower, as it prevents water from draining out too quickly and helps to keep the bathroom floor dry. However, over time, the drain stopper can become clogged with hair, soap scum, and other debris, which can restrict water flow and make it difficult to keep the shower clean.

To clean the drain stopper, follow these steps:

Remove the drain stopper from the drain.
Pour a cup of white vinegar down the drain to help dissolve any soap scum or mineral deposits.
Let the vinegar sit for 15 minutes.
Rinse the drain with hot water.
Use a small brush or toothbrush to scrub the drain stopper clean.
Rinse the drain stopper again with hot water.
Reinstall the drain stopper.

Table of Recommended Cleaning Supplies:

Item	Purpose
White vinegar	Dissolves soap scum and mineral deposits
Small brush or toothbrush	Scrubs the drain stopper clean
Hot water	Rinses the drain and drain stopper

By following these steps, you can keep your shower drain stopper clean and free of clogs.

Clear Clogs in the P-Trap

The P-trap is a U-shaped pipe that connects the drain to the main sewer line. It is designed to trap water and prevent sewer gases from entering the home. However, over time, hair, soap scum, and other debris can accumulate in the P-trap and cause a clog.

To clear a clog in the P-trap, you will need the following tools:

Plunger
Bucket
Old toothbrush or wire hanger
Drain cleaner

Once you have gathered your tools, follow these steps:

Place the plunger over the drain and push and pull vigorously. This will help to dislodge the clog.
If the plunger does not work, you can try using a drain snake. Insert the snake into the drain and turn the handle clockwise. The snake will work its way through the clog and break it up.
If the drain snake does not work, you can try using a chemical drain cleaner. Follow the instructions on the product label carefully.
Once the clog has been cleared, run hot water through the drain for several minutes to flush out any remaining debris.

Check for Leaks

Once you’ve removed the drain cover, it’s essential to check for leaks. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you identify and fix any potential leaks:

1. Turn on the water: Run water into the shower or bathtub to recreate the conditions that would cause a leak.

2. Inspect the drain cover: Examine the drain cover closely for any cracks or gaps where water could be escaping.

3. Inspect the drain pipe: Check the drain pipe that connects the drain cover to the wall for any leaks or loose connections.

4. Inspect the wall and floor: Look for any signs of water damage, such as water stains or mold growth, on the walls or floor around the shower or bathtub.

5. Feel for moisture: Run your fingers along the drain cover, drain pipe, and surrounding areas to check for any dampness or moisture.

6. Listen for dripping: If there is a leak, you may hear dripping sounds coming from the drain or surrounding areas.

7. Use a leak detection dye: This specialized dye can be added to the water to help identify leaks. If there is a leak, the dye will seep out of the hole or crack and discolor the surrounding area.
Here’s a table summarizing the steps for checking for leaks:

Step	Action
1	Turn on the water
2	Inspect the drain cover
3	Inspect the drain pipe
4	Inspect the wall and floor
5	Feel for moisture
6	Listen for dripping
7	Use a leak detection dye

Reassemble the Drain

After thoroughly cleaning all the drain components, you can reassemble the drain by following these steps:

Place the stopper in the drain hole. If your drain has a stopper, insert it into the drain hole now. Make sure that the stopper is properly seated in the hole, and that it is not blocking the water flow.
Screw on the drain cover. Once the stopper is in place, screw on the drain cover. Tighten the cover until it is snug, but do not overtighten it.
Reattach the overflow cover. If your tub has an overflow, reattach the overflow cover now. The overflow cover is usually held in place by one or two screws. Tighten the screws until the cover is secure.
Reconnect the P-trap. Place the washer on the P-trap inlet nipple. Then, screw the P-trap onto the drainpipe. Tighten the P-trap until it is snug, but do not overtighten it.
Tighten the locknut. Use a pair of pliers to tighten the locknut on the P-trap. The locknut helps to keep the P-trap in place.
Reconnect the drainpipes. Connect the drainpipes to the bottom of the P-trap. Make sure that the pipes are properly connected, and that there are no leaks.
Turn on the water. Once the drainpipes are connected, turn on the water to test the drain. Check for any leaks around the drain or the P-trap.
Inspect the drain regularly. Once the drain is reassembled, it is important to inspect it regularly for any leaks or other problems. If you notice any problems, contact a plumber for assistance.

Test the Drainage

It’s important to test the drainage before removing the drain cover to ensure there are no blockages that could cause backup. Here’s how to properly test the drainage:

Pour hot water: Pour a pot of boiling water down the drain. This helps clear any soap scum or hair that may have accumulated.
Observe the water flow: As you pour the hot water,观察 water flow rate. If the water drains slowly or backs up, it indicates a potential clog.
Use a drain snake: If the water flow is slow, try using a drain snake to clear any blockages. Insert the snake into the drain and turn the handle to dislodge any debris.
Check the P-trap: The P-trap is a curved section of pipe beneath the drain that helps prevent sewer gases from entering the bathroom. If the P-trap is clogged, Remove the P-trap and clean out any debris. Reinstall the P-trap and test the drainage again.
Plunge the drain: If the other methods don’t resolve the issue, try plunging the drain. Fill the sink or bathtub with a few inches of water and place the plunger over the drain. Push and pull the plunger vigorously to create suction and dislodge any blockages.
Call a plumber: If you’ve tried all of the above methods and the drain is still clogged, you should consider calling a plumber for professional help.

Reason	Sound
Gurgling	Air trapped in the drain
Clicking	Loose drainpipe
Squealing	Worn-out washer
Thumping	Debris stuck in the drain

Prevent Future Clogs

To prevent future clogs and keep your shower drain flowing smoothly, follow these additional tips:

Install a hair catcher. A hair catcher placed over the drain can effectively trap hair and debris, preventing it from accumulating in the drainpipe.
Use a drain strainer. Similar to a hair catcher, a drain strainer can be placed over the drain to prevent larger objects, such as soap slivers and dirt, from entering the pipe.
Regularly use a drain cleaner. Chemical drain cleaners can help dissolve and remove buildup in your drainpipes, keeping them clear of clogs.
Pour hot water down the drain. Regularly flushing your drain with hot water can help melt and remove grease and hair buildup.
Use baking soda and vinegar. Create a natural cleaning solution by pouring 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by 1/2 cup of white vinegar. Let sit for 15-30 minutes, then flush with hot water.
Use a drain snake. If other methods fail, you can use a drain snake to manually remove clogs in your drainpipe.
Avoid pouring grease down the drain. Grease can solidify and form blockages in your drainpipes.
Disassemble and clean the drain. If your shower drain has a removable drain cover, periodically disassemble it and clean the buildup on the drain cover and trap.
Trim long hair. Long hair is more likely to become entangled and clog your drain. Trim your hair regularly to reduce hair buildup in the shower drain.
Educate children and housemates. Explain to children and housemates the importance of not flushing objects or hair down the shower drain to prevent future clogs.

How to Take Drain Out Of Shower

If your shower drain is clogged, you may need to take it out to clear the blockage. Here’s how to do it:

Turn off the water supply to the shower.
Remove the drain cover.
Locate the drain stopper.
Use a screwdriver or pliers to remove the drain stopper.
Once the drain stopper is removed, you should be able to see the drain pipe. If the drain pipe is clogged, you can use a drain snake or plunger to clear it.
Once the drain is clear, reassemble the drain stopper and drain cover.
Turn on the water supply and check for leaks.