How to Unblock a Shower Drain Without Chemicals
If you’ve ever taken a shower and realized that the water hasn’t been draining it, you’re aware of how annoying it can be. It’s not just slowing down your morning routine, however, it can be more difficult to clean after you’re finished. Although chemical drain cleaners can be occasionally effective, they could also damage your pipes and damage the environment. The good news is that there are plenty of ways that you can unblock the shower drain without resorting to harsh chemical solutions.
Key Takeaways
- Chemical drain cleaners may harm pipes and the surrounding environment.
- There are many natural methods to get rid of the blockage in a shower like baking soda or vinegar and a wire hanger or a dry/wet vacuum.
- To make use of baking soda and vinegar method, gather supplies, remove the drain cover and other debris, then pour baking soda and vinegar. Allow 30 minutes, then flush with boiling water.
- Method for hanging wire to straighten wire hanger while leaving the other end in its original form Make a hook at the end and insert it in the drain, and then use it to pull hair and debris out.
- If you want to use the dry/wet vacuum method switch the vacuum to "wet" mode, cover overflow drains using cloth or tape. attach hose creating an air-tight seal, then turn off the vacuum after three minutes.
- To prevent future blockages, use hair strainers in your shower, and running hot water following each use, and not running grease down your drains.
Method 1 Method 1: Baking Soda and Vinegar
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
To start take the following steps:
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Boiling water
- Rubber gloves (optional)
- A cloth or rag
Step 2. Prepare the Drain
Clean the shower drain If you can, and then use a small brush or toothbrush to get rid of any hair or other debris the drain’s edges. Make sure to wear rubber gloves in the event of need.
Step 3. Pour in Baking Soda and Vinegar
Pour one cup of baking soda down the drain followed by a cups of vinegar. It is best to protect with a rag or cloth. Cover the drain immediately with a clean cloth or rag so that the reaction doesn’t fizz over the top!
Step 4: Wait
You should wait for around 30 minutes as the mix is at work. There should be some sound and bubbling – this means it’s working!
Step 5: Rinse with Boiling Water
Remove the cover with care and flush it out with hot water. This should clear any debris that remains and allow your water to flow smoothly again.
Method 2: Wire Hanger
Sometimes all you require is a sturdy wire hanger
Step 1 Step 1: Straighten It Out
Straighten out the wire hanger as far as possible, leaving one end of the hanger in its original shape.
Step 2: Design a Hook
Make a hook that is small at the end of the wire that you have just straightened.
Step 3: Search for Hair and Debris
Place the hook in the drain and fish around to look for hairs and debris. Get rid of anything that comes up.
Method 3: Dry Vacuum Wet
If you have access to an upright vacuum that is dry and wet the following method may be suitable for you:
Step 1. Set the Vacuum
Set the vacuum into "liquids" (or "wet" mode.
2. Cover Overflow Drain
Cover drains that are overflowing with either duct tape or wet cloth to ensure the highest suction power.
Step 3: Connect Hose to Drain
Attach the hose to your drain to create an air-tight seal.
Step 4: Turn on Vacuum
Turn on the vacuum and let it run for approximately three minutes. This should help remove any obstructions from 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 |
Frequently Asked Question
How can I tell when my shower drain has become blocked?
If your shower takes longer than normal to empty or the water is getting swollen on your feet during your shower, it’s an indication that your drain might be full or partial blocked. Also, a smell of rottenness emanating from the shower could be an indication of a blocked drain.
What are the best natural methods to unblock the shower drain?
You could try pouring boiling water into the drain, followed by baking soda and vinegar. You could also make the mixture of baking soda and salt followed by boiling water. A plunger to drain the sewage plunger might also help.
Do I need to use chemical drain cleaners to clear my shower?
It is not recommended to use chemical drain cleaners due to the fact that they contain harsh chemicals that can damage your pipes in the long run. These chemicals can also harm the surroundings and pose health risks for those who handle them incorrectly.
When should I contact a professional plumber for my blocked shower drain?
If your DIY solutions don’t succeed in clearing your shower drain, it’s recommended to get a professional plumber such as Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber in Adelaide for assistance. Other signs that you need professional help include water leaking out of other drains or toilets, strange gurgling noises from pipes or the smell of rotten food coming from the drains even after cleaning them.
What is the cost to fix a clogged shower drain cleared by a plumber?
The cost of fixing blocked shower drains can vary depending on the severity of the issue as well as where you live. On average, it costs between $100-$300 for a plumber who can unblock the shower drain. However, more extreme cases which require pipe repair or replacements could cost as much as $500-$1000.
Conclusion
The process of unblocking the shower drain can be frustrating and time-consuming, but there are numerous alternatives to try before turning to harsh chemicals. Whether you choose baking soda and vinegar, a wire hanger, or a wet/dry vacuum, be sure to stop future blockages installing a hair strainer inside your shower or shower, and then running hot water following every use, and not pouring grease down your drains. If none of these solutions work, it may be time to call in professional assistance. If you’re struggling with a difficult or declining plumbing problems within Adelaide , contact Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber today!
Additional Information
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- Is It Time for a CCTV Drain Inspection? Here's What You Need to Know
- Tricks for Identifying & Verifying a Clogged Drain
- Clearing Your Drain: Top-notch Drainage Fixes
- Say hello to unclogged drains with effective remedies
- Everything You Need to Know About Unblocking Drains and Avoiding Plumbing Problems
- The Top Solution for Blocked Drains: Discover Jetting Your Way to a Clearer System
- The Ultimate Guide to Drain Clearing Services
- Why Condo Complexes are Switching to Trenchless Pipe Relining Methods
- Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Cost-Effective Solution for Your Plumbing Needs
