How to Fix a Shower Drain Clog

Tuesday, Sep 24th, 24

A clogged shower drain can be a frustrating issue, leading to slow drainage, standing water, and unpleasant odors. You may try a few DIY methods to fix a shower drain clog, but for persistent or severe clogs, professional intervention may be necessary. Make sure you choose an experienced plumber equipped to provide shower drain blockage solutions.

Causes and Signs of Shower Drain Clogs

Common Causes

• Hair: The most common culprit, hair can easily accumulate and form clumps that obstruct the drain.
• Soap Scum: Soap residue combines with minerals in the water, creating a sticky substance that can trap other debris.
• Mineral Buildup: Hard water leaves mineral deposits that gradually reduce the drain’s diameter.
• Dirt and Grease: Body oils, dirt, and grease can contribute to clog formation over time.

Common Signs

• Slow Draining: Water pools around your feet while showering and takes longer to drain.
• Gurgling Sounds: Unusual noises from the drain indicate trapped air and obstructions.
• Unpleasant Odors: Bad smells from the drain suggest accumulated debris and bacteria.
• Water Backup: Water backs up into the shower when using other plumbing fixtures.

How to Unclog a Shower Drain with DIY Solutions

Tools Needed to Fix Shower Drain Clog

• Plunger
• Plumbing snake or auger
• Baking soda and vinegar
• Rubber gloves
• Bucket

Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Plunger

1. Prepare the Area: Remove any standing water with a bucket and wear rubber gloves.
2. Position the Plunger: Place the plunger cup over the drain, ensuring a tight seal.
3. Plunge Vigorously: Push down and pull up rapidly for about 20 seconds.
4. Check the Drain: Remove the plunger and see if the water drains properly.
5. Repeat if Necessary: If the clog persists, repeat the plunging process.

Using a Plumbing Snake or Auger

1. Insert the Snake: Push the snake cable into the drain until you feel resistance.
2. Rotate and Push: Turn the handle clockwise while pushing the cable further into the drain.
3. Break the Clog: Once the clog is reached, rotate and push to break it up.
4. Retract and Clean: Pull the snake out and clean off any debris.
5. Test the Drain: Run water to ensure the clog is cleared.

Natural Solutions: Baking Soda and Vinegar Method

1. Pour Baking Soda: Pour about 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain.
2. Add Vinegar: Follow with 1/2 cup of white vinegar.
3. Wait and Rinse: Let the mixture sit for 15-30 minutes, then flush with hot water.
4. Repeat if Necessary: For stubborn clogs, repeat the process.

When to Call SoCal Plumbing & Rooter for Professional Shower Drain Cleaning

Persistent Clogs That Don’t Resolve with DIY Methods

Although shower drain clog is one of the common plumbing problems, DIY solutions may sometimes fail to clear the clog. If this happens, it is time to call the professionals. Persistent clogs may indicate deeper issues that require expert intervention.

Identifying Signs of a More Serious Plumbing Issue

• Multiple Slow Drains: Indicates a potential blockage in the main sewer line.
• Frequent Clogs: Repeated clogs suggest underlying problems with the plumbing system.
• Water Damage: Signs of water damage around the shower or other fixtures signal serious plumbing issues.

How Our Drain Cleaning Service Professionals Will Resolve the Problem of Shower Drain Clogs

Comprehensive Inspection

At SoCal Plumbing & Rooter, our process begins with a thorough inspection to accurately identify the cause and location of the clog. Our expert plumbers utilize advanced diagnostic tools such as electronic leak detectors and video camera inspections. 

These tools enable us to see inside your plumbing system without invasive methods, ensuring a precise diagnosis. By understanding the exact nature of the clog, whether it is caused by hair, soap scum, mineral buildup, or a foreign object, we can determine the most effective solution to resolve the issue.

Hydro Jetting

Once the clog has been identified, one of the most effective techniques we employ is hydro jetting. This method involves using high-pressure water jets to blast away stubborn blockages and thoroughly clean the interior of the pipes. Hydro jetting not only removes the clog but also clears out any buildup along the pipe walls, such as grease, mineral deposits, and soap scum. 

This cleaning process restores the full diameter of your pipes, ensuring smooth water flow. Hydro jetting is powerful enough to handle even the most persistent blockages without damaging your plumbing system.

Professional-Grade Augers

For clogs that are particularly tough or located deep within the plumbing system, we use professional-grade augers. These industrial-strength tools are designed to break up and remove severe blockages. The auger, also known as a plumbing snake, consists of a long, flexible cable with a cutting head at the end. 

Our skilled plumbers insert the auger into the drain and rotate it to break up the clog. The cable’s flexibility allows it to navigate through bends and curves in the pipes, reaching blockages that are out of reach for standard tools. This method is especially effective for removing dense clogs composed of hair, grease, or other debris.

Camera Inspections

After clearing the clog, we may conduct a camera inspection to ensure that the blockage has been completely removed and to check for any underlying issues that may have contributed to the clog. A small, waterproof camera is attached to a flexible cable and inserted into the drain. 

This camera provides a live feed, allowing our plumbers to see the interior condition of your pipes in real time. The inspection helps us verify that the pipes are clean and free from damage or additional blockages. It also enables us to identify potential problems such as cracks, corrosion, or root intrusion that could lead to future clogs.

Preventative Measures

Regular Maintenance Tips

• Routine Cleaning
• Hot Water Flush
• Use Enzymatic Cleaners

Dos and Don’ts for Maintaining a Clog-Free Shower Drain

• Do: Dispose of hair and soap scum properly.
• Do: Use a drain cover or guard.
• Don’t: Pour grease or oils down the drain.
• Don’t: Use chemical drain cleaners excessively, as they can damage pipes.

Reliable Plumbing Repair Services for Lasting Peace of Mind

Your plumbing issues deserve expert solutions and quality service. SoCal Plumbing & Rooter offers proven drain cleaning solutions to ensure your plumbing system remains in top condition. Reach out to us for high quality plumbing repair and maintenance in Orange County. To place your service request, call us at 714-844-7498 or scheduleyour free estimate online.