A clogged bathtub drain is a nuisance that can quickly ruin your day. Whether it’s caused by hair, soap scum, or something else, a clog can make it difficult to drain water from your tub, and it can even start to smell bad.
The good news is that there are a few simple things you can do to unclog a bathtub drain yourself. In this blog post, we’ll show you how to unclog a bathtub drain using a plunger, a drain snake, and some other common household items.
Step 1: Remove the Drain Strainer
The first step to unclogging a bathtub drain is to remove the drain strainer. This is the small, metal or plastic grate that sits over the drain opening. To remove the strainer, simply unscrew it by hand.
Once the strainer is removed, you’ll be able to see if there’s anything blocking the drain. If you see hair, soap scum, or other debris, you can use a pair of pliers to remove it. To get a visual representation of the bathtub drain components, you can check out the bathtub drain diagram.
Step 2: Pour Boiling Water Down the Drain
If there’s no obvious blockage in the drain, you can try pouring boiling water down the drain. The hot water can help to dissolve any grease or soap scum that’s causing the clog.
To pour boiling water down the drain, simply fill a kettle with water and bring it to a boil. Once the water is boiling, carefully pour it down the drain.
Step 3: Use a Plunger
If pouring boiling water doesn’t work, you can try using a plunger. A plunger is a simple tool that can be used to dislodge clogs in drains.
To use a plunger, simply place the cup of the plunger over the drain opening and push and pull it up and down vigorously. The suction created by the plunger should help to dislodge the clog.
Step 4: Use a Drain Snake
If the plunger doesn’t work, you can try using a drain snake. A drain snake is a long, flexible tool that can be inserted into the drain to clear clogs.
To use a drain snake, simply insert the end of the snake into the drain opening and twist it back and forth. The snake should break up any clogs that are blocking the drain.
Step 5: Use a Chemical Drain Cleaner
If all else fails, you can try using a chemical drain cleaner. Chemical drain cleaners are available at most hardware stores.
To use a chemical drain cleaner, simply follow the directions on the label. Be sure to wear gloves and eye protection when using chemical drain cleaners, and ventilate the area well.
Conclusion
Unclogging a bathtub drain can be a frustrating task, but it doesn’t have to be. By following the steps above, you should be able to unclog your bathtub drain in no time.
If you’ve tried all of the above and your bathtub drain is still clogged, it’s time to call a plumber. A plumber will have the tools and experience to clear even the most stubborn clogs.
