Dealing with a clogged shower drain is never fun. Standing in a pool of soapy water while you shower is not only annoying but can also be a sign of a bigger plumbing issue.
The good news is that you don’t always need to call a plumber right away. There are a few quick fixes you can try at home to clear your clogged shower drain and get the water flowing freely again. In this article, we’ll explore three effective methods:
2. Drain Snake
If the clog persists, don’t hesitate to reach out to WaterSmart for professional help.
3 Quick Fixes for a Clogged Shower Drain
1. Use a Drain Cleaner
One of the most popular solutions for a clogged shower drain is using a liquid drain cleaner like Drano.
These chemical solutions are specifically designed to break down hair, soap scum, and other debris that commonly cause blockages in shower drains.
Read the Instructions: Before pouring any drain cleaner down your clogged shower drain, carefully read the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid damaging your pipes.
Apply the Cleaner: Pour the recommended amount into the drain and allow it to sit for the specified time, usually about 15-30 minutes.
Flush with Hot Water: After the wait, flush the drain with hot water to clear out the dissolved debris.
Potential Issues:
While drain cleaners can be highly effective, they contain harsh chemicals that can corrode pipes over time, especially if used frequently.
If you find yourself reaching for a drain cleaner more than once or twice, it may be a sign of a deeper issue in your plumbing system.
In that case, contact WaterSmart for a professional inspection.
2. Try a Drain Snake
If a chemical drain cleaner doesn’t do the trick, or if you prefer a chemical-free method, using a drain snake is a great alternative.
A drain snake, also known as a plumber’s snake or auger, is a flexible tool designed to physically remove clogs from your drain.
This method is particularly effective for hair clogs, which are a common cause of a clogged shower drain.
Insert the Snake: Carefully insert the snake into the clogged shower drain, pushing it down until you feel resistance from the clog.
Break Up the Clog: Rotate the handle to break up the blockage or latch onto it.
Pull Out the Debris: Slowly retract the snake, bringing any trapped debris with it. It’s a good idea to have a trash bag nearby to dispose of the gunk you pull out.
Test the Drain: Run hot water to see if the clog is cleared.
Potential Issues:
Using a drain snake can be messy, and improper use can scratch or damage the pipes.
If you’re uncomfortable using this tool or if the clog persists, our team can safely and effectively clear any clogged shower drain without risking damage to your plumbing system.
3. Baking Soda and Vinegar
For those who prefer a more natural solution, the combination of baking soda and vinegar can effectively clear a clogged shower drain
This method works best for minor clogs caused by soap scum or small debris and is a safer alternative for your pipes.
Pour in Baking Soda: Start by pouring one cup of baking soda down the clogged shower drain.
Add Vinegar: Follow it with one cup of vinegar. You’ll notice a bubbling reaction as the two ingredients interact, breaking down the clog.
Wait and Flush: Let the mixture sit for at least 30 minutes, then flush the drain with hot water to clear away the debris.
Repeat if Necessary: For stubborn clogs, you can repeat this process a second time.
Potential Issues:
While this method is gentle on pipes and effective for minor clogs, it may not work for severe blockages caused by large debris or deep-seated issues. If the clogged shower drain remains a problem, it’s time to get professional assistance.
Clogged SHower drain: When to Call WaterSmart
If you’ve tried these quick fixes and still have a clogged shower drain, it might be time to call in the experts.
Persistent clogs can indicate a more serious plumbing issue, such as a blockage deeper in your drainage system or even a problem with your main sewer line.
At WaterSmart Systems and Plumbing, we’re experts in diagnosing and resolving clogged shower drains and other plumbing issues.
Our experienced technicians use advanced tools and techniques to safely and efficiently clear blockages without damaging your pipes.
Contact us today to schedule a service call or learn more about our plumbing solutions.
Don’t let a clogged shower drain ruin your day – WaterSmart has the expertise to get things flowing smoothly again!
“Watersmart replaced the pipe that ran from my softener to the drain.. The pipe had been chewed by a rodent. The young man who came to the house took his time to check my softener which hadn’t been working properly. The person who took my phone call and set up the appointment and the fellow who did the work were both friendly and helpful. The charge was minimal. If I do need to replace my water softener in the future, I would have no hesitation calling WaterSmart Systems. Good customer service!”
