If your shower drain is clogged, don’t despair. You can easily remove the drain cover and clean it out yourself. In this article, we’ll show you how to do it in just a few simple steps.
First, you need to gather your tools. You’ll need a pair of pliers, a screwdriver, and a bucket. If the drain cover is particularly stubborn, you may also need a hammer. Once you have your tools, you can begin the process of removing the drain cover.
To remove the drain cover, first use the pliers to loosen the screws that are holding it in place. Once the screws are loose, you can use the screwdriver to remove them completely. Once the screws are removed, you can lift the drain cover off of the drain. Be careful not to drop it, as it can be heavy. Once the drain cover is removed, you can clean it out. Use the bucket to catch any water or debris that comes out of the drain. Once the drain is clean, you can replace the drain cover. To do this, simply place the drain cover over the drain and tighten the screws. Make sure the drain cover is tight enough so that it won’t come loose again.
Determine the Type of Drain
Identifying Common Drain Types
Before attempting to remove a shower drain, it’s crucial to determine its type, as different drains have varying removal methods. Here are the most common types of shower drains:
Pop-up Drain
*
Characterized by a raised stopper that opens and closes the drain.
*
Usually secured by a screw or retainer ring at the base of the stopper.
*
Requires removal of the stopper before accessing the drain body.
Toe-Touch Drain
*
Activated by stepping on a lever or toe-touch mechanism on the drain cover.
*
Mechanism is connected to a plunger or other device that opens and closes the drain.
*
May require removal of the drain cover to access the mechanism.
Linear Drain
*
Long, narrow drain typically installed in the floor of the shower.
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Covered by a grate or cover that can be removed for cleaning.
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Drain body is usually secured by screws or bolts.
Gather Necessary Tools and Materials
Before tackling the task of removing a shower drain, you’ll need to gather the appropriate tools and materials. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to ensure you have everything you need:
Tools:
- Plunger
- Adjustable wrench or drain key
- Screwdriver (Phillips or flathead, depending on screw type)
- Needle-nose pliers
- Wire hanger (optional)
- Shop vacuum (optional)
Materials:
- Drain cleaner (chemical or enzymatic)
- Duct tape
- Baking soda and vinegar (for DIY drain cleaning)
- Replacement drain (if necessary)
- Plumber’s putty or silicone sealant
- Cloth or towel
Choosing the Right Drain Key:
Drain keys come in various sizes and shapes to fit different types of drains. To determine which key you need, measure the diameter of your drain opening and refer to the following table:
| Drain Opening Diameter |
Drain Key Size |
| 1-1/2 inches |
1/2-inch drain key |
| 1-5/8 inches |
3/4-inch drain key |
| 2 inches |
1-inch drain key |
Unclog the Drain Using a Drain Snake
A drain snake is a flexible tool that can be used to remove clogs from drains. To use a drain snake, insert the end of the snake into the drain and slowly push it down. As you push the snake down, it will bend and follow the contours of the pipe. If the snake encounters a clog, it will push through it and break it up. Once the clog has been removed, pull the snake back out of the drain.
Here are some tips for using a drain snake:
- Before using a drain snake, make sure that the water in the drain is turned off.
- Use a flashlight to look down the drain and locate the clog.
- Slowly insert the end of the snake into the drain and push it down.
- If the snake encounters a clog, push harder to break it up.
- Once the clog has been removed, pull the snake back out of the drain.
- Run hot water through the drain to flush out any remaining debris.
| Advantages of using a drain snake |
Disadvantages of using a drain snake |
| Can be used to remove clogs from any type of drain |
Can be difficult to use if the clog is located deep in the pipe |
| Relatively inexpensive |
Can damage the drain if used improperly |
| Can be used to prevent clogs from forming |
Requires some skill to use effectively |
Use a Chemical Drain Cleaner
Chemical drain cleaners are a quick and easy way to unclog a shower drain. They are available at most hardware stores and home improvement centers. However, it is important to read the instructions carefully before using a chemical drain cleaner, as they can be harmful if not used properly.
Step 1: Prepare the area
Before using a chemical drain cleaner, make sure to remove any standing water from the shower. You can do this by using a wet/dry vacuum or a plunger. Once the water has been removed, place a towel around the drain to catch any spills.
Step 2: Read the instructions
Read the instructions on the drain cleaner carefully before using it. Follow the directions exactly as they are written.
Step 3: Pour the drain cleaner into the drain
Slowly pour the drain cleaner into the drain. Do not pour too much drain cleaner into the drain, as this can cause the drain to overflow.
Step 4: Let the drain cleaner work
Let the drain cleaner work for the amount of time specified on the instructions. Do not leave the drain cleaner in the drain for longer than the recommended time, as this can damage the pipes.
Step 5: Flush the drain with water
Once the drain cleaner has worked, flush the drain with plenty of water. This will help to remove any remaining drain cleaner and debris from the drain.
| Chemical Drain Cleaner Safety Tips |
| – Never mix different types of chemical drain cleaners. |
| – Never use a chemical drain cleaner if the drain is already clogged with standing water. |
| – Always wear gloves and eye protection when using a chemical drain cleaner. |
| – Keep chemical drain cleaners out of reach of children. |
| – If you have any questions about using a chemical drain cleaner, consult a professional plumber. |
Remove the Drain Trap
The drain trap is the curved section of pipe beneath the drain that collects hair and other debris to prevent it from entering the plumbing system. To remove the drain trap, follow these steps:
- Place a bucket beneath the drain trap to catch any water that may spill out.
- Using a pair of pliers or a wrench, loosen the nuts that hold the trap in place.
- Carefully remove the trap from the drain.
- Inspect the trap for any debris or clogs.
- If there is any debris, clean it out with a wire brush or a pair of tweezers.
- Reassemble the trap by screwing it back into place and tightening the nuts. Be sure not to overtighten the nuts, as this could damage the trap.
| Tools Needed |
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| Pliers or wrench |
|
| Bucket |
|
| Wire brush or tweezers |
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Once the drain trap is removed, you can access the clog and remove it. Be sure to wear gloves and eye protection when working on the drain, as there may be sharp edges or bacteria in the water.
Clean the Drain Trap
The drain trap is a U-shaped section of pipe located under the drain. Its purpose is to prevent sewer gases from entering the home. Over time, the trap can become clogged with hair and other debris, which can lead to slow drainage or even a complete blockage.
To clean the drain trap, you will need a bucket or shallow pan, a pair of pliers, and a small flashlight.
1. Place the bucket or pan under the drain trap to catch any water that may spill out.
2. Use the pliers to loosen the slip nuts that hold the trap in place.
3. Once the slip nuts are loose, you can remove the trap by pulling it down.
4. Inspect the trap for any clogs. If you see any hair or debris, remove it by hand.
5. Rinse the trap with clean water to remove any remaining debris.
6. Reinstall the trap by inserting it back into the drain pipe and tightening the slip nuts.
Reassemble the Drain
Now that you have cleaned all the parts of the drain, it’s time to reassemble it. Start by placing the rubber washer over the drain opening. Then, screw the drain flange into place. Make sure to tighten it securely, but not too tightly, or you could crack the flange. Next, place the strainer over the drain flange and secure it with the screws. Finally, replace the drain cover.
Tips for Reassembling the Drain
- Use a little bit of plumber’s putty around the base of the drain flange to help seal it.
- Don’t overtighten the screws. If you do, you could crack the flange or the strainer.
- If you have a pop-up drain, make sure that the stopper is in the up position before you reassemble the drain.
Troubleshooting
If you have reassembled the drain and it’s still not working properly, there may be a problem with the drainpipe. To check the drainpipe, remove the drain flange and look inside the pipe. If there is any debris blocking the pipe, remove it and try reassembling the drain again.
| Problem |
Solution |
| Drain is leaking |
Tighten the drain flange or replace the rubber washer. |
| Drain is clogged |
Remove the strainer and clean out the debris. |
| Drain is not draining properly |
Check the drainpipe for blockages. |
Test the Drain
Before jumping into a deep cleaning, it’s essential to test the drain and determine the severity of the clog. Here are the steps involved in testing the drain:
- Remove the Drain Cover: Use a screwdriver or pliers to remove the drain cover. This will provide access to the drain opening.
- Fill the Drain with Water: Pour a cup or two of water into the drain. If the water drains quickly, the clog is likely minor. However, if the water remains stagnant or drains slowly, it indicates a more significant blockage.
- Listen for Gurgling Sounds: While filling the drain with water, listen for any gurgling sounds coming from the pipes. Gurgling sounds indicate a partial blockage or possible issue in the plumbing system.
- Check for Visible Blockages: Use a flashlight to inspect the drain opening for any visible blockages, such as hair, soap scum, or debris. Removing these blockages may solve the problem.
- Test with a Plunger: If the water is not draining properly, try using a plunger to create a vacuum and dislodge the clog. Cover the drain opening completely with the plunger and vigorously plunge up and down to create suction.
- Pour Baking Soda and Vinegar: Another home remedy to test the drain is to pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by half a cup of white vinegar. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes, then flush with hot water.
- Use a Drain Snake: If the plunger and baking soda method don’t work, you can try using a drain snake. Insert the snake into the drain opening and slowly feed it down the pipe while turning the handle to loosen the clog.
- Consider Professional Help: If all the DIY methods fail to unclog the drain, it’s recommended to call a professional plumber to diagnose and clear the blockage effectively.
| Clog Symptoms |
Probable Causes |
| Slow drainage |
Partial blockage, hair, soap scum, or debris |
| Stagnant water |
Major blockage, mineral deposits, or foreign objects |
| Gurgling sounds |
Partial blockage, air pockets, or plumbing issues |
| Unpleasant odors |
Decaying organic matter, mold, or mildew |
Prevent Future Clogs
Shower drains can get clogged for a variety of reasons, but there are a few things you can do to help prevent future clogs.
1. Remove hair regularly. Hair is one of the most common causes of shower clogs. To prevent hair from clogging your drain, remove it from the shower drain cover after each use. You can also use a drain strainer to catch hair before it gets into the drain.
2. Clean your drain regularly. Drains should be cleaned regularly to remove any buildup of soap, shampoo, and other products. You can clean your drain using a commercial drain cleaner or by pouring a cup of baking soda and a cup of vinegar down the drain.
3. Use a drain protector. Drain protectors are devices that fit over the drain and catch hair and other debris before it gets into the drain. Drain protectors are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you can find one that fits your drain and your needs.
4. Don’t pour grease or oil down the drain. Grease and oil can cause clogs in your drain. Instead of pouring grease or oil down the drain, dispose of it in a container or by putting it in the trash.
5. Avoid using harsh chemicals in your drain. Harsh chemicals can damage your drain and cause clogs. Instead of using harsh chemicals, use a gentle drain cleaner or a natural cleaning solution.
6. Regularly check the drain for buildup. Over time, soap scum, hair, and other debris can build up in your drain. To prevent clogs, regularly check the drain for buildup and remove any debris that you find.
7. Install a garbage disposal. A garbage disposal can help to grind up food waste and other debris before it gets into your drain. Garbage disposals can help to prevent clogs and keep your drain flowing smoothly.
8. Use a drain snake. A drain snake is a tool that can be used to remove clogs from your drain. Drain snakes are available in a variety of lengths and shapes, so you can find one that fits your drain and your needs.
9. Call a plumber. If you have a stubborn clog that you can’t remove on your own, you may need to call a plumber. Plumbers have the tools and experience to remove even the most stubborn clogs.
10. Shower drain maintenance schedule
| Task |
Frequency |
| Remove hair from drain cover |
After each use |
| Clean drain |
Monthly |
| Use drain protector |
As needed |
| Don’t pour grease or oil down the drain |
Always |
| Avoid using harsh chemicals in drain |
Always |
| Regularly check drain for buildup |
Monthly |
| Install a garbage disposal |
As needed |
| Use a drain snake |
As needed |
| Call a plumber |
As needed |
How to Get a Shower Drain Out
If your shower drain is clogged, you may be wondering how to get it out. There are a few different ways to do this, depending on the severity of the clog. For minor clogs, you can try using a drain cleaner. However, if the clog is more severe, you may need to remove the drain cover and snake the drain.
To remove the drain cover, you will need a screwdriver or a pair of pliers. Once the drain cover is removed, you can use a drain snake to clear the clog. A drain snake is a long, flexible wire with a hook on the end. You can insert the drain snake into the drain and use the hook to catch the clog. Once you have caught the clog, you can pull it out of the drain.
If you are unable to remove the clog using a drain cleaner or a drain snake, you may need to call a plumber. A plumber can use a hydro jet to clear the clog. A hydro jet is a high-pressure water jet that can break up even the most stubborn clogs.
People Also Ask About How to Get a Shower Drain Out
What are some of the signs of a clogged shower drain?
Some of the signs of a clogged shower drain include:
- Water draining slowly
- Water backing up into the shower
- Bad smells coming from the drain
What are some of the causes of a clogged shower drain?
Some of the causes of a clogged shower drain include:
- Hair
- Soap scum
- Mineral deposits
- Foreign objects
