How to Unblock a Shower Drain Without Chemicals
If you’ve ever taken a shower only to discover that the water isn’t draining it, you’re aware of how annoying it is. This not only slows down your morning routine, but it can also be difficult to clean after you’re finished. While chemical drain cleaners are occasionally effective, they could also damage your pipes and harm the environment. The positive side is the fact that you have plenty of methods that are natural to unblock a shower drain without using harsh chemical solutions.
Key Takeaways
- Chemical drain cleaners could harm pipes and the surrounding environment.
- There are a variety of natural ways to clear a shower drain, such as using baking soda, vinegar or a wire hanger or a wet/dry vacuum.
- For the method of baking soda and vinegar, gather ingredients, unblock the drain cover and other garbage, pour baking soda, followed by vinegar. Wait for 30 minutes, then flush with boiling water.
- For wire hanger methods: straighten out wire hanger, leaving the other end as it was Make a hook at the end and insert it inside the drain to fish hair and debris out.
- To use wet/dry vacuum method Set the vacuum in "wet" mode, cover overflow drains using cloth or tape. attach the hose, creating an air-tight seal. Turn on the vacuum for three minutes.
- Prevent future blockages by using a hair strainer in your shower. Run hot water after every use, and not running grease down your drains.
Method 1: Making a cake with 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 rag or cloth
Step 2. Prepare the Drain
Remove the shower drain cover If you can, and then use a small brush or toothbrush to scrub any hair or other debris from the drain’s edges. Make sure to wear rubber gloves when you need to.
Step 3. Pour in Baking Soda along with Vinegar
Place one teaspoon of baking soda into the drainage followed by a cups of vinegar. Cover the drain immediately with a clean cloth or a rag to ensure the reaction doesn’t fizz over the top!
Step 4: Wait
Take about 30 minutes as the mix is at work. It should sound like there is a fizz and bubbling. This means it’s working!
Step 5: Drain using Boiling Water
Clean the cover thoroughly and flush it out with hot water. This will help remove any debris that remains and ensure that your water is flowing smoothly again.
Method 2: Wire Hanger
Sometimes all you require is a reliable wire hanger
Step 1: Straighten It Out
Straighten a wire hanger as straight as you can, but leave the other end in its original shape.
Step 2: Create a Hook
Create a small hook on the top of the wire that you just straightened out.
Step 3: Search for hair and Debris
Hook it into the drain and search for hairs and debris. Take out whatever comes up.
Method 3: Wet/Dry Vacuum
If you have access to a wet/dry vacuum it could be the best option for you.
Step 1. Set the Vacuum
The vacuum should be set in "liquids" or "wet" mode.
Step 2: Cover Overflow Drain
Make sure to cover any drains that have overflows using duct tape or a wet cloth to ensure maximum suction power.
Step 3: Connect Hose to Drain
Connect the hose to the drain to create an air-tight seal.
Step 4: Turn on Vacuum
Turn on the vacuum and let it run for about three minutes. This will help clear any obstructions from your 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 |
FAQ
How can I tell if my shower drains are clogged?
If your shower takes longer than usual to fill or if water is accumulating on your feet during your shower, it’s an indication that your drain could be completely or partially blocked. In addition, an unpleasant odor emanating from the shower could be an indication of a blocked drain.
What are some natural ways to unblock the shower drain?
You could try pouring boiling water down the drain, followed by vinegar, baking soda, and. It is also possible to use a mix of salt and baking soda, followed by boiling water. Plunging the drain with a plunger could also be helpful.
Can I use chemical drain cleaners to unblock my shower drain?
It’s not advised to use chemical drain cleaners due to the fact that they are laden with harsh chemicals that can cause damage to the pipes in the long run. These chemicals can also harm the environment and pose health risk for those who handle them incorrectly.
When should I call a professional plumber about my shower drain that is blocked?
If the DIY method doesn’t work in clearing the shower drain, it’s recommended to speak with a professional plumbing company like Blocked Drains Plumbing Sydney in Sydney for assistance. Other indicators that you may require assistance from a professional include water leaking out of the toilet or other drains, odd gurgling sounds coming from pipes or the smell of rotten food coming from drains, even after cleaning them.
How much will it cost to have a blocked shower drain cleared by plumbing experts?
The cost of fixing a blocked shower drain can vary depending on the severity of the issue and the location you live. It is typically between $100 and $300 for a plumber who can unblock the drain of a shower. However, more serious cases that require pipe repairs or replacements can cost as much as $500-$1000.
Conclusion
Clearing out a blocked shower drain can be frustrating it is, however, there are numerous ways to tackle the problem without resorting to harsh chemicals. It doesn’t matter if you use vinegar and baking soda, a wire hanger, or a wet/dry vacuum remember to take steps to keep your drains from becoming blocked by using a hair strainer in your shower or shower, and then running hot water following each use, and avoiding pouring grease down your drains. If none of these solutions work, it may be time to get professional help. If you’re having trouble with persistent and persistent plumbing issues within Sydney , contact Blocked Drains Plumbing Sydney today!
Additional Information
- 5 Reasons Why You Should Hire Professionals for Drain Cleaning Services
- The Do's and Don'ts of Keeping Your Drains Free from Blockages
- Unblock Your Drains with Ease: Discover the Power of Blocked Drain Jetting
- The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspections: How Often Should You Carry Them Out?
- How CCTV Drain Inspection Helps in Saving Time and Money on Plumbing Repairs?
- CCTV Drain Inspection: The Key to Resolving Blocked Drains Quickly
- CCTV Drain Inspections: A faster, Accurate and Effective Means of Identifying Root Issues in Drains
- From Clearing Clutter to Securing Access Points: The Preparations You Need for a Successful CCTV Drain Inspection
- Exploring the Factors that Result in Blocked Drains
- A Comprehensive Overview of CCTV Drain Inspection for Your Home
