Jul 06,2023

How to Unclog a Bathtub

After a long day at work, showering can be refreshing. Standing under the running water helps you relax and improves your overall well-being. However, soap, hair, dirt, and other debris go down your drain, clogging the system with time. Call a professional plumbing service immediately if you notice stagnant water around your ankles. While it is common for homeowners to use drain cleaning chemicals, some products contain corrosive ingredients which wreak havoc on your plumbing.

We leverage innovative drain cleaning equipment and proven strategies to restore wastewater flow at Rooter Man. Besides puddles of water in the shower, there are other telltale signs you need to know. It is advisable to detect blockages early, preventing leaks or bursts. This also helps determine the best approach to mitigate further damage.

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Common Reasons for Bathtub Clogs

As mentioned, much waste goes down the drain, from hair and dirt to soap and other foreign materials. Once you rinse everything away, that is not the end. Waste accumulates in the pipes, causing foul smells, backups, and leaks. Although brute force and a plunger can clear minor clogs, severe cases require the expertise of a plumber. Here are several DIY solutions to help you unclog a bathtub.

Add Hot Water

You may wonder the difference between adding hot and cold water. Well, hot water breaks down blockages and dissolves fats or greases. Add several inches of hot water into your tub until it covers the head of the cup plunger. The water in the basin creates the pressure needed and suction to remove the clog. This is an effective solution for dealing with a small clog near the surface. If this doesn’t work, or you experience frequent blockages, consider hiring a plumbing service for professional drain cleaning.

Use a Plunger

A plunger is a common plumbing tool in most homes and commercial establishments. If you don’t have a plunger, don’t worry! Visit the local hardware store and purchase one that suits your needs. There are different plungers for various drains; ensuring you use the right one is critical. Once you have a plunger, place the head of the cup plunger over the drain to form a tight seal. Pump the drain using force and repeat the process at least ten times. After wastewater flows into the drain, schedule an inspection with a plumbing service to address other underlying problems.

Use a Drain Snake

A drain snake, or a drain auger, is a long flexible cable with a handle. Sometimes the clog is deep in the system for a plunger to be effective, but a drain auger allows you to access these hard-to-reach areas. Move the cable inside the clogged pipe until you reach the blockage, then twist it using the handle to break the waste and remove it.

You can use These DIY alternatives to clear clogs in your bathtub. However, they are not substitutes for skilled plumber. Contact us at Rooter Man to enjoy top-quality services, such as installations, repairs, and drain cleaning, at competitive rates.