How to Unclog a Shower Drain

If you are standing in water while taking a shower, your shower drain is ‘clogged’ preventing the water from draining. Hair, lint and the residue accumulated from the bath products over time are likely to be the causes of the blockage. The first thing to do is to look for any visible obstruction and remove it from the drain. If the standing water is still there, it’s now time to unclog the drain.

There are 4 simple methods that will help you in unclogging the drain as given below:

1. Boiling Water 

Pouring boiling water down the drain helps dissolve the build up like soap and dirt effectively. Repeat this twice to completely remove the build-up.

2. Baking Soda and Vinegar

Pour a cup of boiling water followed by a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. Wait for about 15 minutes and pour a cup of boiling water. This helps in dissolving the blockage and clears the drain.

3. Plunger

Using a plunger to remove clogs can be helpful. Remove the drain cover and cover the drain opening by placing the plunger's rubber cup. Apply some petroleum jelly to line the plunger's seal to aid in the creation of better air suction. Then, fill the shower stall with enough water to cover the cup's rim. To drive the clog out, rapidly move the plunger handle up and down. Before replacing the drain cover, run water in the shower to make sure the obstruction is gone.

4. Plumbing Snake 

Move the metal wire of the snake down the drain and into the pipe until it cannot go any further. Rotate the handle of the snake clockwise to clasp the clog and turn it counterclockwise to pull the wire out of the drain. Discard any debris from the snake and pour hot water down the drain to clear it.

While it may be easier to unclog the drain, frequent clogging is a sign of blockage in the main sewage line. Inspired Plumbing can help you in unclogging your shower drain and keep your drains free from blockages. Contact Inspired Plumbing at (02) 9158 3565 to get a Free Quote on clogged drains. We offer $0 call out fee when you book before 5PM.