Showers that drain slowly are one of the most frequently encountered problems with plumbing in the home. As time passes soap scum, hair, and dirt can build up in the shower drain, causing blocks that can cause slow drainage, or even complete blockages. The process of snaking the shower drain can be the most efficient method to clean of these blockages and restore regular water flow. The drain snake, often called a plumber’s snake or auger, is an easy instrument that could help solve this issue without the requirement for chemical solutions.
In this post in this article, in this article, we’ll walk users through the steps of making use of a drain snake in order to unblock your shower. If you follow these steps will allow you to solve the problem and avoid the possibility of future obstructions.
What You’ll Need
Before starting, gather the following equipment:
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Drain Snake Manual drum auger equipped with the length of a 25-foot steel cable the ideal choice for all shower drains. This device is made to penetrate the pipes to break them up and take out obstructions.
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Screwdriver to remove from the drain cap.
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rubber Gloves to protect your hands from dust and dirt.
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Flashlight for more visibility within the drain, in particular in cases where the clog has a deep.
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Towels or buckets to catch any liquid or other debris which could spill throughout the process.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Remove the Drain Cover
First step for getting rid of a shower drain to get rid of the cover. Make use of a screwdriver for removing the cover, or clippings that hold it on. If the cover is screwed-on you can simply pull it away. Place the cover in a safe place and wash it clean when there’s visible debris. This makes it much easy to reconnect at a later time.
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Insert the Drain Snake
After the cover has been removed then put on the rubber gloves. Use the drain snake to place the tube of the cable in the drainage opening. Then slowly feed the cable through the drain, while turning the handle clockwise direction. It is important to turn the handle so that it can in guiding the cable through the drains. Continue to feed your cable till you feel resistance. This is the sign you’ve hit the blockage.
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Break Up the Clog
If you experience resistance, it’s the sign that you’ve found the blockage. Then, turn the handle until you allow the snake’s edge to catch the blockage. When it’s secured then gently pull and push the snake in order to dislodge the blockage. It works by getting rid of the blockage or lifting it out. Don’t push the snake to far, since this could harm your pipes.
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Retrieve the Snake
Once you have cleared the obstruction or removed the debris, gently remove the snake from the drain, while continuing to turn the handle. The handle will ensure that any dirt that gets caught up in the snake’s coils are taken away without causing any damage. Remove any dirt that has caught on the snake, and wash the instrument before placing it in storage.
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Flush the Drain
Once you’ve eliminated the blockage, it’s now time to flush your drain to ensure all debris that remains is cleaned out. Pour hot water down the drain for about a minute to remove any remaining debris. It will also aid in dissolving any soap residue and buildup of grease. It is also possible to utilize a combination of vinegar and baking soda to help give your drain a cleansing booster.
When to Call a Professional
If you’ve tried the procedures previously and still have a blockage or you are experiencing issues employing the snake could be time to consult an experienced plumber. The persistent drainage issues could be the result of more extensive blockages or damages to the plumbing system which needs specialized equipment and expertise. The plumber has the knowledge to identify the problem and fix the issue without damaging the pipes.
Preventative Tips
Even though snaking your drain might help with the immediate problem however, you must make sure you prevent any the possibility of future blockages. Here are some tips to ensure your shower drain is clean and in top condition.
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Install the drain Screen: The mesh screen for drains is able to trap soap scum, hair as well as other particles before they get into the pipe. This is a straightforward and affordable way of reducing the chance of a blockage that forms.
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regular maintenance Regularly flush the drain of your shower using hot water to dissolve soap scum as well as grease. It is also possible to utilize natural cleaners such as baking soda or vinegar for a clear drain.
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Do not use harsh chemicals: Chemical drain cleaners could seem like a simple solution, however they may harm your pipes over the course of time. Instead, opt for natural options to ensure your drain stays free of debris and clean.
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Be aware of what goes down the drain Do not wash large quantities of soap, hair or grease through the drain. They can get accumulated and create obstructions. Utilize a towel for catching the hair that is not being swept away in the drain.
Conclusion
A shower drain snaking is a simple procedure that is able to clear frequent clogs that are caused by soap and hair buildup. If you follow the instructions in the previous paragraphs, you can fix the slow draining and restore regular water flow to the shower. A regular maintenance routine, like cleaning the drain using hot water, and utilizing the drain screen can assist in the prevention of blockages from occurring and ensure that your pipes are functioning properly.
If the problem persists regardless of your efforts take the initiative to contact a licensed plumber to solve the issue. If you pay a bit of care and focus, you will be able to maintain your shower’s drain freely for a long time to be.
