How To Deal With A Blocked Shower Drain

A blocked shower drain can be quite the inconvenience, but what you might not know is that they can also pose a number of potential health hazards if left unchecked.

But, don't stress.

There are a number of different methods you can use to unclog a blocked shower drain. So, stay tuned as we cover the do's and don'ts when dealing with a blocked shower drain.

What to Do When You Have a Blocked Shower Drain

If you find yourself stuck with a blocked shower drain, here are a few of the steps you can take to avoid further damage.

The Plunger

A plunger is a simple and effective tool to use when dealing with a blocked drain of any kind. To use the plunger, first cover the shower floor with a layer of water. Then, place the plunger over the drain before quickly pushing down and pulling up consecutively. This works to create pressure which can help with dislodging a blockage.

Removing Hair and Debris

Hair and soap scum are two of the most common culprits behind blocked shower drains. So, if you notice a pile up of either around your drain, it is a good idea to clear it as well as you can to avoid any further blockages. A drain snake can be helpful for this, however it is best to be cautious when using one.

Home Remedies

Home remedies such as baking soda and vinegar can be an effective and eco-friendly way to clear a clogged shower drain. For this, pour a cup of baking soda down the drain followed by a cup of water. Let that sit for 30 minutes before washing it down the drain with hot (not boiling) water.

Professional Plumber

Calling in the professionals is the best possible thing you can do when dealing with a blocked shower drain. They will have all of the necessary tools and knowledge to fix the problem and ensure it doesn't immediately return.

What Not to Do When Dealing With a Blocked Shower Drain

Now that you know what you can do, it's important to note what you absolutely should not do. There are actually a number of very common mistakes people make when attempting to fix a blocked shower drain, and they can prove to be quite costly. So, here is how to steer clear of any further problems.

Chemical Drain Cleaners

Chemical drain cleaners are often too harsh and can cause damage to your pipes over time. They can also be dangerous to handle and may not even be effective in unclogging your drain.

Boiling Water

While hot water might seem like a good way to clear a blocked drain, it can actually cause more harm than good. Hot water can actually soften PVC pipes and cause them to warp or even burst over time.

Wire Hangers

A wire hanger may seem like a handy tool to clear a blocked shower drain, but it can actually become quite damaging. For instance, the wire can scratch into the internal lining of your pipes, creating more future problems.

Ignore the Problem

Regardless of what you do or don't do, it is crucial that you don't ignore the problem entirely. If left untreated, a blocked drain can quickly worsen, leading to bigger problems over time. It is best to deal with the problem early on to avoid more costly repairs down the line.

Dealing With a Blocked Drain

Dealing with a blocked shower drain can be an absolute nuisance and the best thing you can do is implement some preventative measures to ensure it doesn't even happen in the first place. But, if you are hit with a blocked drain, know that there are a number of ways to ease the problem.

And, if they don't work, call the team here at Jetset Plumbing on 1800 443 996. Our blocked drain specialists are equipped with all of the best tools and knowledge to ensure they are able to fix the problem.

The REAL Reason Your Shower is Blocked... And How to Fix It!