Clogged drains in the bathtub are common. They derive from hair, soap scum, and other debris that manages its way down the drain. When it comes to unclogging them, they can be a challenge. With the steps below that The Original $49.95 Plumber prepared, you can potentially get the bathtub drain unclogged.
Supplies Needed to Clear Pipe Blockage
Collect the following to remove the clog:
– Bucket
– Plumbing Snake
– Plunger
– Rag
– Rubber Gloves
– Screwdriver
– Sponge
How to Unclog a Drain Pipe
1) Pipe blockage removal. If you are going to make contact with gunk that is built up in the drain, be sure to wear gloves. As mentioned, shed hair soap scum, or other bathroom products that have gone the drain comprises of the clog. The blockage is often visible as it tangles around the drain cover which can be pulled out with your fingers. A hairball is likely to emerge as you pull the visible strands. Once cleared, run the bath tub to test if that was efficient in removing the blockage.
2) Plunge the drain. If the visible blockage is removed and the drain is still clogged, plunging the drain is the next step. Remove the standing water from your tub. With the screwdriver, remove the overflow cover this is usually located under the faucet. If any hairs a wrapped around the coil upon inspection, be sure to pull them off. Jam the rag in the overflow opening, it needs to be tight to prevent air from escaping. Use a free hand to hold the rag in place because as you plunge, the air will push the rag out. Start plunging the drain with a sink plunger for a good amount of time. It may appear to not be effective, but the method is likely working. When you hear water draining, you will know the clog is pushed through. If things improve, run hot water through the drain to push out the remaining residues. Should this remain ineffective, continue to step 3.
3) Plumber’s Snake. If you are not familiar with a plumbing snake, you may have some difficulty. If you are unsure how they work and plunging was ineffective, it is highly advised you contact a professional plumber. Funnel the snake down the drain where the overflow drain opening. 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 once you reach the resistance.
4) Drain liquid without harmful chemicals. Most people do not like the chemical use and most liquid drain cleaners more often than not cause drain issues to worsen and should be avoided. Pour ½ cup of baking soda and slowly pour 1 cup of vinegar down the drain and wait for the fizzing to end. Repeat the baking soda and vinegar steps. After the fizzing has stopped the second time wait 30 minutes and have a pot of boiling water by the end of the 30 minutes. At the end of the 30 minutes, pour the hot water down the drain. Test the efficiency of the drain. If the clog is evident, be sure to contact a professional for assistance.
Drain Cleaning Plumbing Services & More in Staten Island, Maspeth, Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Yonkers, Queens, NYC Boroughs, New York City NY
If you are experiencing clogged drains, call in the professionals of The Original $49.95 Plumber and let our experts clean the drains for you.
