Perhaps it is time to check the condition of the drain if you notice a buildup of standing water when taking showers or a bathtub that takes a long time to empty. Poor drain care can result in a bathtub that drains slowly or a complete blockage of the pipes. Usually, hairs, heavy dirt, or other debris that is difficult to dissolve causes these obstructions. As a result, clearing a clogged bathtub drain is a laborious process that frequently calls for combining several techniques.
Here are some simple instructions for clearing a bathtub drain:
Check For Visible Obstruction
The main offender is typically clumps of hair. Look inside and under your drain cap if nothing is visible outside. A flashlight can be used if necessary. Anything you see that might be clogging the drain should be removed. Check if your drain has stoppers, and ensure the plug doesn’t unintentionally block it. If water isn’t draining after you’ve cleared any obvious obstructions and made sure the drain is open, it’s time to unclog.
Pour Boiling Water
The traditional boiling water trick is the simplest method for unclogging a bathtub, provided the tub has no standing water. Pouring boiling water down the drain will enable you to reach any hard-to-reach places. The heat from the boiling water will activate any grease or soap that has gotten stuck together and help get things moving.
Try Using A Plunger
The effectiveness of plunging depends on several factors, including the type of blockage, where it is located in the drain, and how your drain is constructed. Plunging frequently fails, but given the short preparation time and low expense, it is always worth a shot.
Use Natural Alternative To Chemicals
In addition to using chemicals, cleaning with vinegar and baking soda is an excellent way to clear a blockage in a bathtub drain. The chemical reaction produces a potent foam-like substance that could dislodge any blockages and will also aid in removing foul odors. Ensure you rinse this off with water when the mixture stops fizzing.
Invest In A Plumber’s Snake
If the obstruction still doesn’t budge, you’ll need to arm yourself with the right tools and learn how to utilize a drain snake or one of the numerous other tools available from hardware stores or online designed to reach deeper into your drain. Long, flexible pipe cleaners, plumber snakes, and hair snakes are excellent for clearing blockages further down the pipework beneath your bath.
Call A Plumber
It’s time to call a professional if none of those mentioned above measures have made a difference in the speed of the drain. Plumbers are trained for this sort of work and will have the right tools and know-how to clear your drain quickly, safely, and efficiently. They can also give you advice on how to prevent future clogs from happening in the first place.
Conclusion
Poor maintenance is the leading cause of bathtub clogs in most cases, but do-it-yourself attempts to clear drains are often shortsighted. Strong drain cleaners can damage pipes—and leave you with a bigger plumbing bill when things go wrong. At New Flow Plumbing, we offer a wide range of plumbing services using the latest pipe camera technology to diagnose common issues like leaks and drain problems. Our plumbers are also available for emergency plumbing services 24/7. We don’t want you to go without a working shower or bathtub, so we offer fast service to resolve your problem as soon as possible.
