How to Unblock a Shower Drain Without Chemicals
If you’ve ever taken a shower only to realize that the water hasn’t been draining then you’ll be aware of how frustrating it is. It’s not just slowing down your morning routine, but it can also be harder to clean up when you’re done. Although chemical drain cleaners can be occasionally effective, they could also damage your pipes and damage the environment. The positive side lies in the plenty of natural methods to clear the shower drain, without the need for harmful chemicals.
Key Takeaways
- Chemical drain cleaners can damage pipes and the surrounding environment.
- There are several natural methods to get rid of the blockage in a shower by using baking soda or vinegar, a wire hanger, or a dry/wet vacuum.
- To use baking soda with vinegar: collect supplies, remove the cover for draining and any obstructions, and pour baking soda, followed by vinegar. Wait for 30 minutes then flush with boiling water.
- Method for hanging wire: straighten out wire hanger and leave one end as it was, create a hook at the top, and then place it into the drain, and then use it to pull hair and debris out.
- To use wet/dry vacuum method select the "wet" mode and cover drains overflowing using cloth or tape. attach hose creating an air-tight seal. Then turn off the vacuum after 3 minutes.
- Be prepared for blockages in the future by using hair strainers in your shower. You can also run hot water after each use and avoiding the practice of pouring grease down your drains.
Method 1 Method 1: Bake Soda and Vinegar
Step 1: Gather Your Equipment
To start to begin, collect the following items:
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Boiling water
- Rubber gloves (optional)
- A rag or cloth
Step 2: Clean the Drain
Take off the shower drain cover as much as you can and use an e-brush or small toothbrush to remove all hair and other particles the edges of the drain. Make sure to wear rubber gloves when you need to.
Step 3: Add Baking Soda along with Vinegar
You can pour one cup of baking powder down your drain, followed by one cup white vinegar. Cover the drain immediately with a clean cloth or a rag to ensure that the reaction doesn’t get beyond control!
Step 4: Wait
It should take about 30 minutes as the mix does its work. It should sound like there is a fizz and bubbling. That’s a sign that it’s working!
Step 5: Clean with Boiling Water
Take the cover off with care and flush it with boiling water. This will clear any remaining debris and ensure that your water is flowing smoother.
Method 2: Wire Hanger
Sometimes all you require is a trusted wire hanger:
Step 1 Step 1: Straighten It Out
Straighten out the wire hanger as far as possible, leaving the other end with its original shape.
Step 2: Make a Hook
Make a hook that is small at the end of the wire that you just straightened out.
Step 3: Search for Hair and Debris
Insert the hook into the drain and search for hair or debris. Get rid of anything that comes up.
Method 3: Dry Vacuum Wet
If you have access to a wet/dry vacuum This method could be for you:
Step 1: Set the Vacuum
The vacuum should be set into "liquids" (or "wet" mode.
2. Cover Overflow Drain
Cover any overflow drains with the use of duct tape or a damp cloth to ensure the highest suction power.
Step 3: Connect Hose to Drain
Connect the hose to your drain to create an air-tight seal.
Step 4: Turn on Vacuum
Start the vacuum, and allow it to run for around three minutes. This should eliminate any obstructions from the shower drain.
| 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 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my shower drain is blocked?
If your shower takes longer than usual to empty or if you notice that water is collecting around your feet when you shower, it’s a sign that your drain is partially or fully clogged. A sour smell emanating from the shower may also be a sign of a blocked drain.
What are some natural ways to unblock the shower drain?
Try pouring boiling water down the drain, then followed by the baking soda mixture and then vinegar. You can also use a mixture of salt and baking soda followed by boiling water. Plunging the drain with a plunger could also be helpful.
Do I need to utilize chemical drain cleaners free my shower?
It’s not recommended to use chemical drain cleaners since they are laden with harsh chemicals that can cause damage to your pipes over time. These chemicals can also harm the surroundings and pose health risks for those who use them improperly.
When should I contact a professional plumber about my blocked shower drain?
If the DIY method doesn’t work in clearing your shower drain, it’s recommended to call a professional plumber like Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber in Adelaide for help. Other indications that you require professional help include water backing up out of other drains or toilets, strange gurgling noises from pipes or the smell of rotten food coming from drains, even after cleaning them.
How much will it cost to get a clogged shower drain cleared by a plumber?
The cost for fixing blocked shower drains can be different based on the severity of the issue and the location you reside. In the average, it will cost between $100 and $300 for a plumber who can unblock the drain of a shower. However, more severe situations which require pipe repair or replacement can cost upwards of $500-$1000.
Conclusion
Unblocking a shower drain could be stressful however there are plenty of ways to tackle the problem without resorting to harsh chemicals. If you decide to use baking soda and vinegar, a wire hanger or a wet/dry vacuum, make sure you keep your drains from becoming blocked by installing a hair strainer inside your shower and running hot water after each use, and avoiding spilling grease down your drains. If these strategies don’t work, it’s an appropriate time to seek professional assistance. If you’re experiencing a lot of trouble and persistent plumbing issues at Adelaide , contact Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber now!
Additional Information
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- Catching Drain Issues Early: The Benefits of Scheduling Regular Inspections for Your Business
- The Top Solution for Blocked Drains: Discover Jetting Your Way to a Clearer System
- Tricks for Identifying & Verifying a Clogged Drain
- Why Condo Complexes are Switching to Trenchless Pipe Relining Methods
- Unleashing the Power of High Pressure Drain Cleaning
- Don't Let These Common Mistakes Clog Your Pipes
- Preventing Clogs and Blockages: Best Practices for Maintaining Your Drains
- Avoiding Clogged Drains: Tips for Homeowners
- Everything You Need to Know About Unblocking Drains and Avoiding Plumbing Problems
