Dealing with a clogged drain is annoying and requires immediate assistance. Knowing how to unclog a shower drain is a handy skill for homeowners. Learning the proper techniques to prevent mineral build-up and clogs goes a long way. A blocked drain can lead to mold growth and flooding, burst, or leaking pipes. A simple clogged shower drain is not difficult to fix, but having the necessary plumbing expertise to pull off the job is. Consulting the experts of a leading plumbing company in Oakland is the best solution to prevent future clogs.
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Table Of Contents
Why do drains get clogged?
Clogged drains can be caused by hair, dirt, soap scum, and more. These substances accumulate over time, eventually sticking to the walls of the pipes until a blockage gets so large that it affects the water flow. As a result, water drains more slowly than usual, which could eventually cause standing water or a pool on the floor. Call professionals in drain cleaning in Oakland, CA, and get tips to prevent severe blockages.
Here’s how to clean a clogged and smelly shower drain.
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Plunger
Plunging is one of the most effective ways to unclog a shower drain. However, the effectiveness depends on the severity of the blockage and how your drain is designed. While using a plunger, adding water to your shower allows the tool to submerge in water before you plunge again. Plunging is one of the most used clogged shower drain solutions.
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Drain Cleaner
Natural drain cleaners are easy to use and work faster to unclog simple drain problems. Experts advise against chemical drain cleaners because they can damage pipes and hardware. The safe at-home cleaner works well in clearing minor clogs.
Pour a cup of baking soda and vinegar into your drain. Wait for an hour or two to get the mix. You can boil water to remove the leftover blockage when the clogs are cleared.
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Plumbers’ Snake
A plumber’s snake is an effective tool for clearing out clogged shower drains. These tools can go much deeper than hooks to scrape off clogs. When you push the snake down, it reaches the block where it cannot move anymore. Now, twist the handle to clear the clog. If this method doesn’t work, call the experts.
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Boiling Water
Pouring boiling water down your shower drain can help unclog it because water temperature helps to soften the soap scum and dirt build-up for a smooth wash away. You can do this once a week to prevent blockages and smells. This method may not work if there is a serious blockage.
Conclusion
While regular maintenance can help prevent blockages, sometimes a professional drain cleaning is the best way to keep you safe from damage. If your shower drain keeps clogging, it may indicate a blockage in your main sewer line, which can cause serious damage to your home and sewer system. Consulting with experts at the right time helps you prevent uncomfortable situations.