Is your shower drain clogged, causing water to accumulate and hamper your daily routine? Don’t worry; you can fix it using a wet-dry vacuum. This step-by-step guide will show you how to unclog your shower drain using a tool you may already have at home.
Let’s dive into the easy-to-follow steps and get your shower draining again.
Unclog a Shower Drain with a Wet Dry Vacuum
So here are the steps that you can follow to unclog a shower drain using a wet-dry vacuum.
Step #1: Clear the Area and Prepare the Wet Dry Vacuum
First of all, you will have to clear the nearby area and prepare the wet-dry vacuum. For this, you must ensure nothing floatable around the shower drain. Because it might affect the operation.
Besides that, you will have to prepare the wet-dry vacuum. Make sure that the pipe of the vacuum is all right. There should be no leakage, and the front mouth of the pipe should be in good condition.
You can plug the vacuum into the nearest electric board if everything is good. However, ensuring the wire doesn’t touch the ground is important. As there will be water on the ground that can cause a short circuit.
Step #2: Add Water to the Shower Drain
Once you have cleared the area and the vacuum is ready, you will have to add some inches of water. For this, turn ON the shower and leave it for a few minutes to let the water accumulate on the ground.
Once your shower drain is completely covered with the water, turn OFF the shower.
Step #3: Use Wet Dry Vacuum with the Wet Rag to Vacuum Clog
Now place a wet tag over the dry vacuum’s nozzle to create a seal. After that, position the nozzle over the clogged drain and activate the vacuum. The suction will draw out the clog from the drain.
You can try 4-5 seconds of multiple suctions if a huge clog is inside the drain. However, you will have to make sure that water around the drain isn’t coming into the drain.
Step #4: Let the Water Drain and Repeat
Once the clogged is sucked through the vacuum, allow the water to drain. After that, check if the drain is clear by running the water down. If the clog remains, repeat steps 2 & 3 until the drain is unclogged.
Step #5: Add Drain Protector
To prevent future clogs, consider adding a drain protector. This will catch debris before it enters the drain. This simple step can help clean your shower drain and prevent further blockages.
Tips to Prevent Clogging in a Shower Drain
If you want to get rid of the clogged shower drain permanently, here are a few tips to help you.
- Install a Drain Strainer: Place a drain strainer or hair catcher over the shower drain to prevent hair, soap residue, and other debris from entering the drainpipe. Regularly clean the filter to ensure proper water flow.
- Limit Hair Contact: Avoid the amount of loose hair that comes into contact with the drain by brushing your hair before entering the shower or using a shower cap. This can reduce the chances of hair clogs.
- Use a Drain Cleaning Solution: Regularly use a drain cleaning solution designed for showers to dissolve any buildup or residue in the drainpipe. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and be cautious when handling chemicals.
- Avoid Pouring Grease and Oils: You should never pour grease, cooking oils, or fats down the shower drain as they can solidify and cause stubborn clogs. Dispose of these substances in the appropriate waste containers.
- Clean the Drain Regularly: Perform routine maintenance by cleaning the shower drain with hot water and vinegar. Pour the solution down the drain, let it sit for a few minutes, then flush it with hot water to clear any potential blockages.
- Flush with Hot Water: After each shower, run hot water down the drain for a few minutes to help prevent the buildup of soap scum and other residues. The hot water can dissolve these substances and flush them away.
- Be Mindful of What Goes Down the Drain: Avoid allowing foreign objects, such as jewelry, cotton swabs, or small toys, to fall into the shower drain. These items can cause blockages and should be disposed of.
Following these preventative measures can reduce the chances of experiencing a clogged shower drain.
Final Thoughts
So that’s how you can unclog a shower drain with a wet-dry vacuum. All you have to do is follow the steps given above and get rid of the clogged drain within a few minutes.
FAQs
What is the Best Solution for a Blocked Shower Drain?
Using a wet-dry vacuum is an effective and convenient solution for unclogging a shower drain. It provides strong suction power to remove clogs.
Can a Wet Dry Vac Unclog Drain?
Yes, a wet-dry vac can unclog a drain. Its powerful suction can pull out the clogs, allowing water to flow again.
Can I Dissolve Hair in a Shower Drain Using a Wet Dry Vacuum?
A wet-dry vacuum is not designed to dissolve hair or other substances in the drain. Its primary function is to remove clogs through suction power. To prevent hair clogs, use a drain strainer or hair catcher and regularly clean it.
Is there any Alternative to Wet Dry Vacuum for Unclogging a Shower Drain?
If you don’t have a wet-dry vacuum, you can use a plunger to create pressure and dislodge the clog. Alternatively, you can use a drain snake or auger to remove the clog from the drainpipe. If these methods don’t work, it’s best to consult a professional plumber.
