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plunge drain — Use a Plunger to Clear the Clog

Beginner60 mins

Part of project

Unclog a Shower Drain: Quick Guide with Standing Water · Step 2 of 3

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In this video

Use a plunger to loosen the clog. Insert the plunger into the drain opening and ensure a tight seal. Pump the plunger vigorously up and down for several minutes. This action creates pressure that can help dislodge the blockage.

Goal: Loosen drain clog.

  • Make sure there's enough water in the sink to cover the cup of the plunger.
  • If the sink is completely clogged, remove some water before plunging.
  • Add petroleum jelly to the rim of the plunger to create a better seal.

Used in this video

  • plunger (Tool Type: Plunger, Material: Rubber, Diameter: Medium) · optionalLoosening drain blockage.
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FAQs

What type of plunger should I use for a shower drain, and is the specified VEVOR drain auger necessary?

For shower drains, a cup-style plunger (also known as a sink plunger) works best as it creates a good seal on flat surfaces. While the VEVOR auger is a solid recommendation, any flexible drain snake with a good hook or corkscrew end will generally be effective for most shower clogs.

What safety precautions should I take when trying to unclog a shower drain, especially with standing water?

Always wear sturdy rubber gloves to protect your hands from bacteria and grime. Eye protection is also advisable to guard against splashes during plunging or snaking. It's crucial to avoid using chemical drain cleaners, as they can cause serious burns and damage pipes.

I've plunged several times, but the water isn't going down. What am I doing wrong, or what should I try next?

Ensure you have a complete seal with the plunger; sometimes adding a little more water to fully submerge the plunger head helps. If there's an overflow plate in the shower/tub, cover it with a wet cloth to prevent air from escaping. If plunging fails, it's time to move on to the drain snake, as the clog is likely too deep or solid for just a plunger.

The project estimates 60 minutes. What if it takes much longer, or I can't get the clog cleared?

The 60-minute estimate is for typical clogs using the recommended tools. If you've diligently followed the steps for over an hour and the clog persists, it might indicate a more complex issue deeper in your plumbing. At this point, it's best to contact a professional plumber to avoid potentially causing further damage.

Transcript
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this sorted piece of cake all right so I'm gonna Jam the plunger down here we're gonna see if we can plunge this grease away mate and see if we can save getting the jet out but for you long term subscribers you know that this trusty plunger comes from the great land of England oh all me oh are you then I'm gonna leave it there guys from England could I be an honorary Englishman

Auto-generated transcript. May contain errors.