Use a Plumber's Snake — Employ a Drain Snake for Stubborn Clogs
Part of project
Unclog a Shower Drain: Quick Guide with Standing Water · Step 3 of 3
In this video
For deep clogs, use a plumber's snake (or auger). Insert the spring end into the drain and feed it down the pipe until you feel resistance from the clog. Once you've located the clog, crank the handle while simultaneously pushing and pulling the snake. This combination of rotation and movement will break up the clog. Be careful not to scratch the sink's finish with the metal snake.
Goal: Break up a deep clog with an auger
- You can also try securing a piece of cloth around the end of a hose and using water pressure to force out a clog.
Used in this video
- Plumber's snake (Tool Type: Plumbing Tools, Power Source: Manual, Material: Metal, Cable Length/Size: Short (<25 ft), Tool Functionality: Snaking/Augering) — Reaching and breaking up clogs deep in the drain pipe.
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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.
Use a Plumber's Snake — Employ a Drain Snake for Stubborn Clogs
Part of project
Unclog a Shower Drain: Quick Guide with Standing Water · Step 3 of 3
In this video
For deep clogs, use a plumber's snake (or auger). Insert the spring end into the drain and feed it down the pipe until you feel resistance from the clog. Once you've located the clog, crank the handle while simultaneously pushing and pulling the snake. This combination of rotation and movement will break up the clog. Be careful not to scratch the sink's finish with the metal snake.
Goal: Break up a deep clog with an auger
- You can also try securing a piece of cloth around the end of a hose and using water pressure to force out a clog.
Used in this video
- Plumber's snake (Tool Type: Plumbing Tools, Power Source: Manual, Material: Metal, Cable Length/Size: Short (<25 ft), Tool Functionality: Snaking/Augering) — Reaching and breaking up clogs deep in the drain pipe.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.