A clogged bathtub is a common plumbing issue that many homeowners face at some point. If your bathtub is draining slowly or not draining at all, it’s likely due to a blockage in the drain. While a clogged bathtub can be a nuisance, there are a few simple things you can do to unclog it yourself. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to unclog a bathtub drain.
What Causes a Clogged Bathtub?
Before we get into how to unclog your bathtub, let’s first talk about what causes a clogged bathtub. There are a few different things that can cause your bathtub to drain slowly or stop draining altogether. The most common culprit is hair. When hair sheds from your head, it can end up going down the drain and getting caught in the drain trap. Over time, enough hair can build up and cause a blockage. Another common cause of clogged bathtubs is soap scum. Soap scum is the film that builds up on surfaces after the soap has been used. This film can eventually make its way down the drain and contribute to a clog.
How to Unclog Your Bathtub
Step 1: Remove the Drain Cover
The first step is to remove the drain cover. Most drain covers can be removed by simply unscrewing them with your hands. If your drain cover is stuck, you may need to use pliers or a screwdriver to loosen it. Once the drain cover is off, you should see the stopper and the clean-out plug. The clean-out plug is located on the underside of the stopper and can be removed by unscrewing it with your hands or with pliers.
Step 2: Clear the Stopper
Once the clean-out plug is removed, you should be able to pull out the stopper easily with your hands. If the stopper is stuck, try twisting it back and forth until it comes loose. If that doesn’t work, you may need to use pliers or a screwdriver to loosen it. Once the stopper is removed, take a look inside the drain to see if there’s anything blocking it. If so, remove it carefully with your hands or pliers and dispose of it properly.
Step 3: Use the Plunger
If there wasn’t anything blocking the drain, chances are there’s just built-up gunk causing your clog. One popular method is using a plunger. To use a plunger, simply fill the tub with enough water to cover the plunger cup and place the plunger over the drain opening. Pump the plunger up and down vigorously for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Be sure to keep a tight seal between the plunger cup and the drain so that all of the suction goes towards clearing the clog.
Step 4: Use Plumber Snake
A plumber’s snake is a long, flexible wire that you insert into the drain to clear away any blockages. You can usually find them at your local hardware store. To use a plumber’s snake, insert it into the drain until you feel resistance. Once you feel resistance, twist the snake clockwise and push it further into the drain until you break through the clog. Then, pull the snake out of the drain and flush it with hot water to clear any residual debris.
Step 5: Call a Professional Plumber
A professional plumber will have the tools and expertise necessary to clear even the toughest clogs. They will also be able to inspect your drain to see if there is any damage that needs to be repaired. In most cases, a simple snake will be all that is needed to clear the clog. However, if there is damage to your pipes, the plumber will be able to make repairs so that your drains are as good as new.
Takeaway
Although a plunger is usually the first tool you think of when your bathtub won’t drain, there are other ways to unclog it that don’t involve getting your hands dirty. Drain snakes and drain cleaners can also be effective in clearing a clogged bathtub. If you have tried all of these methods and your tub still won’t drain, it may be time to call a professional plumber at Tap 2 Drain Plumbing. We’ll be able to resolve the clog and get your bathtub running again in no time.