Clogged shower drains can be a major inconvenience. It can cause your shower or tub to back up as well as black sludge to build up in your shower or bathtub. While liquid solutions are not always effective, they can also be hazardous.
Showers can become clogged by mineral build-up, hair, dirt, soap, and other debris. If not resolved, it can cause damage to the pipes as well as the shower or bathtub itself. Here are some simple ways to clean clogged shower drains Mississauga.
How to Clean a Clogged Shower Drain
Use the Tips on How to Clean a Clogged Shower Drain Before Calling a Plumber
- Use a Plunger
Adding some petroleum jelly around the edge of the suction pad of the plunger will help give it a better seal. Make sure to plunge with a lot of vigor.
Keep in mind that plugging is not always effective, especially if the clog is caused by hair build-up. In most cases, it is not as effective in showers as in bathtubs due to the overall design.
- Use a Plumber’s Snake
This is one of the most effective methods to clear a clogged drain. A plumber’s snake is also referred to as an electric eel.
Push the snake into the drain until it hits the clog. Turn the handle and carefully pull it back up. Turn on the water to see if the item clogging the drain has been completely eliminated.
- Use a Hook
A wire hook (or coat hanger) can also be an effective way to remove a clog. However, this will not work if the issue is caused by a mineral build-up.
- Remove the Drain Cover and Remove the Clog with Your Hand
Wear rubber gloves with this method to protect your hands. Remove the drain cover by screwing it off by hand or with a screwdriver if needed. Use a flashlight to locate the clog. Remove it by hand if possible. If not, try the above method.
- Use Boiling Water to Unclog the Drain
This method is the best for breaking down grease or soap build-up. Boil a pot of water on the stove and carefully carry it over to the drain. Pour the water slowly and carefully down the drain so as not to spill it on yourself. This should dissolve the drain of any blockage. However, it may not work with hair build-up.
- White Vinegar and Baking Soda
This is a natural solution and is safer than using any of the alternative chemical methods. Moreover, it is safe for all types of piping material.
First, pour baking soda (1 cup) down the drain and wait for a few minutes so that it can settle down. Then add a cup of vinegar and wait for about an hour. Follow this with a pot of boiling water to fix the clogged drain.
If the above methods do not unclog the drain, you can resort to one of the store-bought chemicals. Keep in mind that these are extremely hazardous, so do not use them around children or pets. Always wear protective gear and follow the directions on the packaging.
If none of these methods on how to clean a shower drain have resolved the issue, contact DrainCom at 905-238-6800 for a Free Estimate and we will schedule a time for a licensed plumber to unclog your shower drain.
