It is common for bathtub drains to become clogged. Clogs generally develop from the hair, soap scum, and other debris that manages its way down the drain. Since unclogging bathtub drains can be challenging, we at The Original $49.95 Plumber would like to offer some tips.

Supplies Needed to Remove Bathtub Clog

To remove the clog, collect the following:
– Rag
– Rubber Gloves
– Screwdriver
– Bucket
– Plumbing Snake
– Plunger (drain)
– Sponge

Bathtub Clog Remover

Wearing gloves, if you are going to make contact with gunk that is built up in the drain. As we touched on, bathtub drain clogs typically consist of soap scum, shed hair, or other bathroom products. With your fingers, in most cases, you can pull out the visible tangles around the drain cover. As you pull the visible strands, a hairball is likely to emerge. Run the bathtub to test if that was efficient in removing the blockage after it is cleared.

Use a Drain Plunger

Plunging the drain is the next step if the visible blockage is removed and the drain is still clogged. From your tub, eliminate the standing water. Remove the overflow cover this is usually located under the faucet using a screwdriver. Be sure to pull any hairs a wrapped around the coil upon inspection off. Jam the rag in the overflow opening, it needs to be tight to prevent air from escaping. As you plunge, the air will push the rag out so use a free hand to hold the rag in place. With a sink plunger for a good amount of time, start plunging the drain. The method is likely working, though it may appear to not be effective. You will know the clog is pushed through when you hear water draining. Run hot water through the drain to push out the remaining residues if the situation improves. Continue to step 3 should this remain ineffective.

Utilize a Plumber’s Drain Snake

You may have some difficulty if you are not familiar with a plumbing snake. It is highly advised you contact a professional plumber if you are unsure how they work, and plunging was ineffective. Where the overflow drain opening, funnel the snake down the drain. Until you feel resistance, feed the snake. Once you reach the resistance, feed the snake until you feel resistance. Use your snake to break the clog apart or attempt to move it down the drain both will work in unclogging your bathtub’s drain.

Flush the Drain

More often than not cause drain issues to worsen and should be avoided, most people do not like the chemical use and most liquid drain cleaners. Wait for the fizzing to end after pouring ½ cup of baking soda and slowly pour 1 cup of vinegar down the drain. Repeat the baking soda and vinegar steps. Wait 30 minutes once fizzing has stopped the second time and have a pot of boiling water by the end of the 30 minutes. Flush the drain with the hot water at the end of the ½ hour. Test the drain’s efficiency. Be sure to contact a professional for assistance if the clog is evident.

Drain Pipe & Sewer Line Camera Inspections, Cleaning, Unclogging & More in Staten Island, Maspeth, Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Yonkers, Queens, NYC Boroughs, New York City NY

Call in the professionals of The Original $49.95 Plumber and let our experts clean the drains for you if you are experiencing clogged drains.