Best ways to unclog a shower drain

The bathrooms in most homes get more than their fair share of traffic and the problems that accompany heavy use, but by knowing the best ways to unclog a shower drain a homeowner can avoid the panic that occurs when a shower is not working properly. The reasons why shower drains can become clogged are usually all associated with the body oils and hair that go down the drain after each family member showers, and over time can cause a clog that can be tough to remove. The best ways to unclog a shower drain match the remedy to the severity of the clog, because the basic idea is to just get the water flowing again without the use of excessive measures

The best way to unclog a shower drain that is only mildly showing signs of a slowing water flow is to place a cup of vinegar into the drain and let it stand for several hours. Follow this up with by running hot water down the shower drain and in most instances the drain will flow more freely. Another remedy to unclog a shower drain that is minor is to place an ounce of dish detergent that has an degreasing agent in it into the drain and to run hot water through the drain.

To unclog a shower drain that is moderately clogged, one of the best remedies is to place a commercial drain cleaner into the drain that has an acid base. These chemicals can cut through clogs rather quickly, especially clogs that are due to the accumulation of hair. In order to use this remedy, you must first remove the shower drain cover by unscrewing it and then use a crystallized drain cleaner that is placed directly into the drain. The reason for this is that liquid drain cleaners can overflow the drain and cause severe damage to bathtub interiors. After the chemical has been added let it work for as long as possible and then flush the drain by turning on the hot water.

The best way to unclog a shower drain that is severely clogged is to remove the shower drain cover, and using a coat hanger remove as much hair and grease as is possible. A plumbing snake can them be used on the drain to open up the clog. If the water flow is good after this process the job is complete - if not remove the plumbing snake and then add chemical drain cleaner and that should do the trick to unclog the shower drain