How to Unblock a Shower Drain Without Chemicals
If you’ve ever stepped into a shower and realized that the water hasn’t been draining, you know how frustrating it can be. Not only can it slow down your morning routine however, it can be more difficult to clean after you’re finished. Although chemical drain cleaners can be sometimes effective, they may also damage your pipes and damage the environment. The positive side is the fact that you have plenty of natural ways to unblock a shower drain without using harmful chemicals.
Key Takeaways
- Chemical drain cleaners can damage pipes as well as the environment.
- There are a variety of natural ways to clear a shower drain, such as using baking soda and vinegar and a wire hanger or a dry/wet vacuum.
- To use baking soda and vinegar method, gather materials, take off the cover for draining and any garbage, pour baking soda in, then vinegar. Allow 30 minutes, then flush with boiling water.
- Method for hanging wire Straighten the wire hanger while leaving the other end as it was and then create a hook on the end and insert it down the drain and let it catch hair and debris out.
- Method for wet/dry vacuums switch the vacuum to "wet" mode then cover the drains of overflow by a cloth or tape, connect the hose to create an airtight seal. Then turn to the mode for three minutes.
- Be prepared for blockages in the future by using a hair strainer in your shower. Run hot water following each usage and avoiding running grease down your drains.
Method 1: Baking Soda and Vinegar
Step 1: Gather Your Equipment
To start, gather the following items:
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Boiling water
- Rubber gloves (optional)
- A rag or cloth
Step 2: Prepare the Drain
Get rid of the shower drain cover If you can, and then use a small brush or toothbrush to scrub dirt or hair the drain’s edges. Be sure to wear rubber gloves, if needed.
Step 3: Pour in Baking Soda and Vinegar
Put one cup baking soda in the sink followed by a cup of white vinegar. It is best to protect your drain immediately using a cloth or a rag to ensure that the reaction doesn’t get beyond control!
Step 4: Wait
You should wait for around 30 minutes while the mixture is at work. You should hear some fizzing and bubbling – this means it’s working!
Step 5: Rinse using Boiling Water
Remove the cover carefully and flush it with boiling water. This should help clear all debris remaining and help ensure that your water is flowing freely.
Method 2: Wire Hanger
Sometimes all you require is a reliable wire hanger:
Step 1 Straighten It Out
Straighten out the wire hanger as far as possible, leaving the other end in its original shape.
Step 2: Create an Hook
Create a small hook on the end of the wire that you have just straightened out.
Step 3: Go fishing for Hair and Debris
Hook it into the drain, and then fish for hairs and debris. Take out whatever comes up.
Method 3: Dry Vacuum Wet
If you’re able to access an air-tight vacuum This method could be the best option for you.
Step 1: Set the Vacuum
Set the vacuum to "liquids" or "wet" mode.
Stage 2: Seal Overflow Drain
Overflow drains should be covered with duct tape or a wet cloth to ensure the highest suction power.
Step 3: Connect Hose to Drain
Attach the hose to your drain, creating an air-tight seal.
Step 4: Turn on Vacuum
Switch on the vacuum and let it run for approximately three minutes. This will help clear any obstructions in the drain of your shower.
| Method | Supplies Needed | Steps |
|---|---|---|
| Baking Soda and Vinegar | Baking soda, white vinegar, boiling water, rubber gloves (optional), cloth or rag | 1. Gather supplies\n2. Prepare the drain\n3. Pour in baking soda and vinegar\n4. Wait for 30 minutes\n5. Flush with boiling water |
| Wire Hanger | Wire hanger | 1. Straighten it out\n2. Create a hook\n3. Fish for hair and debris |
| Wet/Dry Vacuum | Wet/dry vacuum, duct tape or wet cloth | 1. Set the vacuum to "liquids" or "wet" mode\n2. Cover overflow drain \n3. Attach hose to drain \n4. Turn on vacuum |
FAQs
How do I know if my shower drains are clogged?
If your shower is taking longer than normal to empty or if water is accumulating around your feet when you shower, it’s a sign that your drain might be completely or partially blocked. Also, a smell of rottenness coming from the shower area could indicate a blocked drain.
What are some natural ways to unblock the shower drain?
You can try pouring boiling water into the drain, followed with baking soda, vinegar and. You can also use the mixture of salt and baking soda and boiling water. The drain can be drained by a plunger could also be helpful.
Do I need to use chemical drain cleaners to clear my shower?
It’s not advised to use chemical drain cleaners as they are laden with harmful chemicals that could harm the pipes in the long run. These chemicals also can harm the environment and pose health risk to those who handle them improperly.
When should I call a professional plumber about my blocked shower drain?
If the DIY method doesn’t work in unblocking your shower drain, you should to contact a professional plumber like Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber in Adelaide for assistance. Other signs that you need professional help are water backing up out of other toilets or drains, weird gurgling sounds from pipes or smells that are foul from the drains despite cleaning them.
How much will it cost to get a clogged shower drain fixed by a plumber?
The price of repairing blocked shower drains can differ based on the severity of the issue and where you live. On average, it costs between $100-$300 for a plumber to remove the shower drain. However, more extreme cases that require pipe repair or replacement could be priced between $500 and $1000.
Conclusion
Unblocking a shower drain could be stressful, but there are numerous natural methods to try before turning to harsh chemicals. If you decide to use vinegar and baking soda or a wire hanger or a dry/wet vacuum, be sure to avoid future blockages by installing a hair strainer inside your shower or shower, and then running hot water following each use, and avoiding using grease down your drains. If none of these options perform, it could be the time to seek professional help. If you’re struggling with a difficult or persistent plumbing problems in Adelaide , contact Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber immediately!
Additional Information
- Methods for Unblock a Drain Effortlessly: Tips and Tricks
- Problems with Blocked Drains: Plumber Solutions and Tips
- Benefits of Pipe Relining for Your Blocked Drains Problem
- The Dangers of Using Chemical Drain Unblockers
- DIY Drain Cleaning: How to Safely Tackle Clogged Drains
- Don't Let Your Blocked Drains Cause You Trouble
- Avoiding Clogged Drains: Tips for Homeowners
- How to Fix a Shower Drain: The Step-by-Step Fix Necessary
- Essential Tips for Keeping Your Drains Clog-Free
- Why You Should Choose CCTV Drain Inspection to Identify Root Infiltration in Your Plumbing System
