Remove drain cover — Remove Standing Water from Shower
Part of project
How to Clear a Clogged Shower Drain with Standing Water · Step 1 of 3
In this video
The first step is to try removing the drain cover using a specialized tool. Once removed, water is poured down the drain to check if the clog has been cleared.
Goal: Access the drain opening
Used in this video
- Drain removal tool — Removing the drain cover
3.7M subscribers
FAQs
What can I use if I don't have a wire hanger or a specialized drain snake for manual clog removal?
You can improvise with common household items. A sturdy piece of wire, like from a coat hanger, can be bent into a hook shape. Alternatively, a long zip tie with small notches cut into it can effectively grab hair and debris.
What safety precautions should I take, especially when dealing with dirty standing water and the clog itself?
Always wear protective rubber or disposable gloves to shield your hands from bacteria and grime. You might also want to wear old clothes or an apron to prevent splashes. Ensure the area is well-ventilated and have a disinfectant ready for cleanup afterwards.
What should I do if I can't reach the clog with the wire hanger, or if it feels like I'm pushing it further down?
If you can't feel the clog, it might be deeper than a simple manual removal with a hanger can handle; consider purchasing a longer, flexible drain snake. Avoid forcing the wire, as this can compress the clog or push it further down, making it harder to remove. Try gentle, probing and twisting motions.
The project estimates 45 minutes; what if it takes longer, or I can't clear the clog myself?
The 45-minute estimate is for a typical, accessible clog. If you've spent over an hour and are making no progress, or if the clog feels exceptionally stubborn, it might be time to call a professional plumber. Persistent clogs can indicate a deeper issue within your home's plumbing system.
Remove drain cover — Remove Standing Water from Shower
Part of project
How to Clear a Clogged Shower Drain with Standing Water · Step 1 of 3
In this video
The first step is to try removing the drain cover using a specialized tool. Once removed, water is poured down the drain to check if the clog has been cleared.
Goal: Access the drain opening
Used in this video
- Drain removal tool — Removing the drain cover
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I use if I don't have a wire hanger or a specialized drain snake for manual clog removal?
You can improvise with common household items. A sturdy piece of wire, like from a coat hanger, can be bent into a hook shape. Alternatively, a long zip tie with small notches cut into it can effectively grab hair and debris.
What safety precautions should I take, especially when dealing with dirty standing water and the clog itself?
Always wear protective rubber or disposable gloves to shield your hands from bacteria and grime. You might also want to wear old clothes or an apron to prevent splashes. Ensure the area is well-ventilated and have a disinfectant ready for cleanup afterwards.
What should I do if I can't reach the clog with the wire hanger, or if it feels like I'm pushing it further down?
If you can't feel the clog, it might be deeper than a simple manual removal with a hanger can handle; consider purchasing a longer, flexible drain snake. Avoid forcing the wire, as this can compress the clog or push it further down, making it harder to remove. Try gentle, probing and twisting motions.
The project estimates 45 minutes; what if it takes longer, or I can't clear the clog myself?
The 45-minute estimate is for a typical, accessible clog. If you've spent over an hour and are making no progress, or if the clog feels exceptionally stubborn, it might be time to call a professional plumber. Persistent clogs can indicate a deeper issue within your home's plumbing system.