Are you struggling with a shower or bath that won’t drain in the Spartanburg, Simpsonville, Greenville or surrounding areas? Here are some tips and tricks if you’re up for trying to DIY it yourself. If you are still having issues, and you need a helping hand, reach out to the top plumbers at JB Plumbing Services for all your drain cleaning needs!
First, to determine if you have a clog, follow these steps:
- Visual Inspection: Begin by checking your drain for any visible obstructions, with clumps of hair being a common culprit. If nothing is apparent on the surface, inspect underneath the drain cap and inside the drain itself. Utilize a flashlight for a clearer view. Remove any potential blockages you identify.
- Ensure Drain Openness: Double-check that your drain is open and there’s sufficient space between the drain stopper and the pipe for water to flow freely. The method varies based on the drain and stopper type. Some drains have unscrewable stoppers that can be lifted out entirely, while bathtub-showers may feature a switch under the faucet controlling the drain. Investigate and confirm that no stopping mechanism is unintentionally impeding the drain.
Once you’ve determined that you have a clog, continue onto the steps below.
4 Ways to Unclog Your Shower Drain
- Manual Removal: If the clog is visible near the surface, don a pair of rubber gloves and carefully extract it by hand. Specialized plastic hooks designed for this purpose can be helpful. Avoid using a wire coat hanger, as it may cause damage to your drain.
- Utilize a Drain Snake: Invest in a drain snake, also known as a plumber’s snake, from a hardware store. This retractable, flexible tool comes with a hand crank to send a metal wire down the drain, breaking up or pulling out the clog. Disposable plastic versions are available for hassle-free use, even on clogged toilets. Remember to clean the drain snake after use.
- Boiling Water Method: If there are no visible obstructions and the drain snake proves unsuccessful, try using boiling water. Pour a pot of boiling water down the drain to dissolve softer build-ups like soap scum. Repeat the process two or three times for optimal results.
- Natural Drain Cleaner: Opt for a natural drain cleaner instead of conventional, chemical-laden options. Create a mixture of 1 cup of distilled white vinegar and 1 cup of baking soda. Begin by pouring boiling water down the drain to loosen the clog, then follow up with the baking soda-vinegar mixture. Wait for 15 minutes and rinse with more boiling water.
For effective DIY solutions to drain cleaning in Spartanburg, trust JB Plumbing Services to guide you through the process with care. If these methods prove insufficient, our expert plumbers are ready to assist you in resolving any stubborn clogs.
