How to Unblock a Shower Drain Without Chemicals
If you’ve ever had the misfortune of taking a shower only to discover that the water isn’t draining, you know how frustrating it is. Not only can it slow down your morning routine however, it can be more difficult to clean up after having finished. Although chemical drain cleaners are occasionally effective, they could also damage your pipes and damage the environment. The positive side is that there are a lot of natural ways to unblock a shower drain without resorting to harsh chemicals.
Key Takeaways
- Chemical drain cleaners can harm pipes as well as the environment.
- There are a variety of natural ways to get rid of the blockage in a shower by using baking soda, vinegar, a wire hanger, or a wet/dry vacuum.
- To make use of the baking soda method and vinegar: collect materials, take off the drain cover and any obstructions, and pour baking soda and vinegar. Wait for 30 minutes and then flush with boiling water.
- To use wire hanger method: straighten out wire hanger, leaving the other end in its original form Make a hook at the end, insert it into the drain to catch hair and other debris out.
- To use wet/dry vacuum method select the "wet" mode, cover overflow drains with tape or cloth, join the hose and create an airtight seal. Turn off the vacuum after 3 minutes.
- Prevent future blockages by using hair strainers in your shower. Run hot water after each use and refraining from using grease to clean your drains.
Method 1 Method 1: Baking Soda and Vinegar
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
To begin to begin, collect the following items:
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Boiling water
- Rubber gloves (optional)
- A rag or cloth
Step 2: Prepare the Drain
Take off the shower drain cover as much as you can and use an e-brush or small toothbrush to scrub the hairs or any other obstruction from the edges of the drain. Wear rubber gloves if necessary.
Step 3: Pour in Baking Soda along with Vinegar
You can pour one cup of baking powder down your drain, followed by one cup white vinegar. Then cover the drain immediately with a towel or a towel to ensure that the reaction doesn’t get beyond control!
Step 4: Wait
You should wait for around 30 minutes as the mix does its work. You should hear some fizzing and bubbling. That’s a sign that it’s working!
Step 5: Flush with Boiling Water
Clean the cover thoroughly and flush the water with boiling. This should help clear any remaining debris and ensure that your water is flowing freely.
Method 2: Wire Hanger
Sometimes all you need is a sturdy wire hanger:
Step 1 Step 1: Straighten It Out
Straighten a wire hanger as straight as possible, leaving one end with its original shape.
Step 2: Design an Hook
Make a hook that is small at the top of the wire that you have just straightened.
Step 3: Fish for hair and Debris
Hook it into the drain and look to look for hair or debris. Pull out anything that comes up.
Method 3: Dry/Wet Vacuum
If you’re able to access a wet/dry vacuum the following method may be the best option for you.
Step 1: Set the Vacuum
The vacuum should be set in "liquids" and "wet" mode.
2. Cover Overflow Drain
Make sure to cover any drains that have overflows using the use of duct tape or a damp cloth to ensure the highest suction power.
Step 3: Connect Hose to drain
Attach the hose onto your drain, creating an air-tight seal.
Step 4: Turn on Vacuum
Then, turn on the vacuum and allow it to run for around three minutes. This should eliminate any obstructions in 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 drain is blocked?
If your shower takes longer than usual time to empty, or water is pooling on your feet during your shower, it’s a sign that your drain is partially or fully clogged. Also, a smell of rottenness emanating from the shower could indicate a blocked drain.
What are some natural ways to unblock the shower drain?
You can try pouring boiling water down the drain, followed by baking soda and vinegar. It is also possible to use a mixture of baking soda and salt followed by boiling water. A plunger to drain the sewage plunger can also aid.
Can I utilize chemical drain cleaners clear my shower?
It is not recommended to use chemical drain cleaners because they contain harsh chemicals that can cause damage to the pipes over time. Chemicals can also damage the environment and pose health risk for those who handle the products improperly.
When should I contact a professional plumber about my blocked shower drain?
If DIY techniques don’t work in clearing your shower drain, it’s recommended to call a professional plumber like Blocked Drains Plumbers Sydney in Sydney for assistance. Other indicators that you may require professional assistance include water leaking out of other drains or toilets odd gurgling sounds coming from pipes or odors of foul smells emanating out of the drains after cleaning them.
What is the cost to have a blocked shower drain fixed by plumbing experts?
The cost of fixing an unblocking shower drain could vary depending on the severity of the issue and the location you live. In the average, it will cost between $100-$300 for a plumber who can unblock the shower drain. However, more severe situations which require pipe repair or replacements can be priced between $500 and $1000.
Conclusion
Unblocking a shower drain could be stressful however there are numerous alternatives to try before using harsh chemicals. It doesn’t matter if you use baking soda and vinegar, a wire hanger, or a dry/wet vacuum, ensure you take the necessary steps to prevent future blockages by making use of a hair strainer in your shower or shower, and then running hot water following every use, and not pouring grease into your drains. If these strategies don’t perform, it could be time to call in professional help. If you’re struggling with a difficult or having trouble with plumbing issues in Sydney , contact Blocked Drains Plumbers Sydney now!
Additional Information
- The Ultimate Guide on How to Clear a Blocked Drain in Your Home
- How CCTV Drain Inspection Helps in Saving Time and Money on Plumbing Repairs?
- How to Tell You Need Drain Clearing Services for Your Business
- Using the Power of High Pressure Drain Cleaning
- The Ultimate Guide to Pipe Relining: How to Select the Perfect Material
- Top Plumbing Services to Keep Your Pipes Running Smoothly
- The Top Causes of Blocked Drains and Their Simple Solutions
- A Comprehensive Overview of CCTV Drain Inspection for Your Home
- Keep Your Home Safe by Hiring a Professional Drain Cleaning Service
- Self-Help Approaches for Unclogging Clogged Drains in Your Home
