If you’re in Mesa, Queen Creek, or the East Valley and are having trouble with shower draining properly we can help. Our team of top-rated plumbing experts is available to you 24/7. However, you may be able to take care of the clogged drain on your own.
Our plumbing team has broke down the best ways to unclog a shower drain and hopefully save you the expense of a plumber coming out.
How to Unclog a Shower Drain
- Pour boiling water down the drain.
- Use a plunger.
- Use baking soda and vinegar (the natural alternative to chemicals)!
- Take the drain cover off and pull out the clog by hand.
- Use a hook.
- Use chemicals.
- Call a plumber
We break down each of these methods in greater detail below. These, in our opinion, are the most cost-effective methods of clearing your clogged shower drains.
Pour Boiling Water Down the Drain
Boiling water is sometimes an effective method of unclogging your showers drain. However, if the drain is blocked by matted hair, it may only partially clear the clog. Used in combination with some of the below methods will certainly increase the effectiveness.
Try Using a Plunger
Plungers work on more than just toilets. The pressure caused by a plunger can often push clogged items through the drain and allow your shower to start operating as intended.
Baking Soda and Vinegar (the Natural Alternative to Chemicals)
Baking soda and vinegar are useful for more than just making your children’s science class volcanos. The chemical reaction between baking soda and vinegar creates a powerful solution that can help clear your drains. It’s also much friendlier on the environment and your pipes.
Take off the Drain Cover and Pull Out the Clog by Hand
The primary culprit to clogged shower drains is hair. No one loves grabbing wet, matted hair – however, this method has a chance of success. Using your hands ensure you get all the debris you can out of the drain, allowing it to operate unimpeded.
Use a Hook
Much like your hand, but without having to actually touch the debris clogging your shower drain – this is one of the oldest and most trusted methods.
Simply hook the material clogging the drain and pull it out.
Use Chemicals
Most hardware stores and supermarkets sell strong chemical cleaners designed to unblock drains. Follow the instructions carefully. In our opinion, this option should be used as a last resort before calling a plumber.
Chemicals can cause burns and damage your pipes. The likelihood of damage to your home’s plumbing increases if you use chemicals frequently. With that being said, the chemicals do work sometimes. And can get your shower back to functional if you have no other options.
Call a Plumber
Sometimes you just need to bring in the professionals. If your shower just wont unclog, our East Valley plumbing experts are ready to help. Call us today for a free estimate.