Clogged shower drains are a common household problem that can be frustrating and time-consuming to resolve. If you’re dealing with a slow-draining or completely clogged shower, don’t despair! There are several effective methods you can try to unclog it without calling a plumber. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide step-by-step instructions for three simple and effective methods to clear your shower drain and get your water flowing freely again.
The first method involves using a drain snake, which is a long, flexible tool that can be inserted into the drain to break up clogs. Alternatively, you can try using a chemical drain cleaner, which is a harsh chemical solution that can dissolve hair and soap scum. Finally, if neither of these methods is successful, you can attempt to remove the drain cover and clean out the clog manually. Before attempting any of these methods, be sure to gather the necessary tools and safety gear to ensure a smooth and efficient drain cleaning process.
As you progress through the steps of each method, be patient and persistent. Clogs can be stubborn, but with the right tools and techniques, you can successfully clear your shower drain and restore its proper functionality. Remember to take necessary safety precautions when using chemical drain cleaners, and if the clog persists despite your best efforts, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber for assistance.
Locating the Hair Trap
To remove the drain cover, you will first need to determine the type of drain you have. There are two main types of drains: pop-up drains and flat drains.
Pop-up Drains
Pop-up drains have a center cap that can be lifted or unscrewed. Once the center cap is removed, you will be able to see the hair trap. The hair trap is a small, cylindrical device that is located in the center of the drain. To remove the hair trap, simply lift it out of the drain.
Flat Drains
Flat drains do not have a center cap. Instead, they have a removable grate. To remove the grate, simply lift it up and out of the drain. Once the grate is removed, you will be able to see the hair trap. The hair trap is a rectangular or square device that is located in the center of the drain. To remove the hair trap, simply lift it out of the drain.
| Drain Type | Hair Trap Location |
|---|---|
| Pop-up Drain | Center of the drain |
| Flat Drain | Center of the drain, under the removable grate |
Cleaning the Hair Trap
The hair trap is a small, plastic or metal device that fits over the drain opening. It collects hair and other debris, preventing them from clogging the drain. To clean the hair trap, follow these steps:
- Remove the hair trap by pulling it straight up.
- Remove any hair or debris from the hair trap. You can use a pair of tweezers or a small brush to help you.
- Rinse the hair trap with clean water.
- Reinstall the hair trap by pushing it back into place.
Here are some additional tips for cleaning the hair trap:
- Clean the hair trap regularly, at least once a month. This will help prevent clogs.
- If you have long hair, you may need to clean the hair trap more often.
- If the hair trap is clogged, you can try to unclog it with a plunger. If this doesn’t work, you may need to call a plumber.
| Frequency | Method |
|---|---|
| Monthly | Remove hair and debris with tweezers or a brush. Rinse with water. |
| As needed | Use a plunger to unclog. If this doesn’t work, call a plumber. |
Flushing the Drain with a Plunger
A plunger is one of the easiest and most effective ways to remove clogs from a shower drain. Here’s how to do it:
- Fill the shower basin with enough water to cover the plunger cup. This will create a seal that will help the plunger dislodge the clog.
- Place the plunger over the drain and pump it up and down vigorously. Be sure to keep the plunger cup submerged in the water at all times.
- Repeat steps 2 and 3 until the clog is removed. You may need to plunge for several minutes to completely clear the drain.
- If the plunger doesn’t remove the clog, you may need to try other methods, such as using a drain snake or calling a plumber.
Tips for Using a Plunger
Here are a few tips for using a plunger effectively:
| Tip | How To |
|---|---|
| Create a seal | Make sure the plunger cup is completely submerged in water to create a seal. |
| Pump vigorously | Pump the plunger up and down forcefully to create enough pressure to dislodge the clog. |
| Be patient | It may take several minutes of plunging to completely clear the drain. |
Disassembling the Drain Assembly
To disassemble the drain assembly, follow these steps:
- Remove the drain cover. This is usually done by unscrewing the screws that hold it in place.
- Remove the stopper. The stopper is usually held in place by a screw or a spring. To remove it, simply unscrew the screw or pull the stopper out.
- Remove the strainer. The strainer is usually held in place by a screw or a spring. To remove it, simply unscrew the screw or pull the strainer out.
- Remove the drain body. The drain body is usually held in place by a nut or a screw. To remove it, simply unscrew the nut or screw.
- Remove the washer. The washer is usually located between the drain body and the drainpipe. To remove it, simply pull it out.
- Remove the drainpipe. The drainpipe is usually connected to the drain body by a slip joint. To remove it, simply pull the drainpipe out of the slip joint.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Remove the drain cover. |
| 2 | Remove the stopper. |
| 3 | Remove the strainer. |
| 4 | Remove the drain body. |
| 5 | Remove the washer. |
| 6 | Remove the drainpipe. |
Once you have disassembled the drain assembly, you can clean the parts and reassemble the assembly.
Reassembling the Drain Assembly
1. Align the drain plug with the drain hole on the shower tray, ensuring that the rubber washer forms a tight seal.
2. Insert the tailpiece into the drain plug, aligning the threads to create a secure connection.
3. Hand-tighten the tailpiece until it is snug against the drain plug. If desired, use a wrench to further tighten the connection for added security.
4. Place the drain grate over the tailpiece, ensuring that it fits securely and lies flat against the shower tray.
5. Install the overflow plate over the drain assembly, making sure to align the holes for the screws.
6. Insert the screws into the holes and tighten them with a screwdriver to secure the overflow plate.
7. Check the drain assembly for leaks by running water through the shower drain.
8. If there are leaks, disassemble the drain assembly and inspect the rubber washer for tears or damage. Replace the washer if necessary and reassemble the drain assembly, ensuring that all connections are tight.
| Tips |
|---|
| – Use a flashlight to inspect inside the drain assembly for any obstructions or damage. |
| – Apply a small amount of plumber’s putty to the threads of the tailpiece for added sealing. |
| – If the drain grate does not fit securely, it may be bent or warped. Replace it with a new grate to ensure proper drainage. |
Testing the Drain
To test the drain, start by removing the drain cover. Then, pour a cup of water down the drain. If the water drains slowly or not at all, there is likely a clog. You can also use a drain snake or a plunger to try to remove the clog. If these methods do not work, you may need to call a plumber.
Signs of a Clogged Drain
There are several signs that may indicate a clogged drain. These include:
| Sign | Description |
|---|---|
| Slow draining water | Water takes longer than usual to drain from the shower. |
| Standing water | Water remains in the shower after it has been turned off. |
| Gurgling sounds | The drain makes gurgling sounds when water is running. |
| Unpleasant odors | The drain emits foul odors. |
How To Take Out A Shower Drain
If your shower drain is clogged, you may need to remove it to clean it. Here are the steps on how to take out a shower drain:
- Remove the drain cover. The drain cover is usually held in place by a few screws. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws and lift off the cover.
- Locate the drain stopper. The drain stopper is usually located in the center of the drain. It is usually held in place by a few screws. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws and lift out the stopper.
- Remove the drain body. The drain body is the part of the drain that is connected to the plumbing. It is usually held in place by a few screws. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws and lift out the drain body.
- Clean the drain. Once you have removed the drain body, you can clean it. Use a drain cleaner or a wire brush to remove any clogs. You can also use a wet/dry vacuum to suck up any debris.
- Reassemble the drain. Once you have cleaned the drain, you can reassemble it. Insert the drain body back into the drain hole. Secure it with the screws. Insert the drain stopper back into the drain body. Secure it with the screws. Replace the drain cover.
People Also Ask
How do I know if my shower drain needs to be cleaned?
There are a few signs that your shower drain needs to be cleaned. These include:
- Water is draining slowly.
- There is a foul odor coming from the drain.
- There is hair or other debris visible in the drain.
How often should I clean my shower drain?
You should clean your shower drain every few months, or more often if you have long hair or if you use a lot of soap or shampoo.
What is the best way to clean a shower drain?
There are a few different ways to clean a shower drain. You can use a drain cleaner, a wire brush, or a wet/dry vacuum. You can also pour a pot of boiling water down the drain to help dissolve any clogs.
Can I use bleach to clean my shower drain?
Yes, you can use bleach to clean your shower drain. However, you should be careful not to use too much bleach, as it can damage the drain.
