How to Unclog a Bathtub Drain With Standing Water | Easy Steps
How to Unclog a Bathtub with Standing Water
A clogged bathtub is a common problem that can be both frustrating and inconvenient. Not only does it prevent you from taking a relaxing bath, but it can also lead to water damage if the clog is not cleared up quickly.
Luckily, there are a number of simple and effective ways to unclog a bathtub with standing water. In this article, we will discuss some of the most common methods, as well as tips for preventing future clogs.
We will also provide step-by-step instructions on how to unclog a bathtub with a plunger, a drain snake, and a chemical drain cleaner. So whether you’re dealing with a stubborn clog or just want to learn how to prevent them in the future, read on for all the information you need!
How To Unclog Bathtub With Standing Water?
| Step | Action | Result |
|—|—|—|
| 1 | Remove all standing water from the bathtub. | This will make it easier to see what you’re doing and prevent the clog from getting worse. |
| 2 | Use a plunger to try to clear the clog. | Place the plunger over the drain and push and pull it up and down several times. |
| 3 | If the plunger doesn’t work, try using a drain snake. | A drain snake is a long, flexible tool that can be inserted into the drain to loosen the clog. |
| 4 | If the drain snake doesn’t work, you may need to call a plumber. | A plumber will have the tools and experience to clear a stubborn clog. |
How to Unclog Bathtub with Standing Water?
Identifying the Cause of the Clog
The first step to unclogging a bathtub is to identify the cause of the clog. There are a few common causes of bathtub clogs, including:
- Hair: Hair is one of the most common causes of bathtub clogs. As you shower, hair falls into the drain and can eventually build up to form a clog.
- Soap scum: Soap scum can also build up in your bathtub drain and cause a clog. Soap scum is a combination of soap residue, dirt, and hair.
- Grease: Grease can also cause a bathtub clog. Grease can come from cooking oils, lotions, or makeup.
- Foreign objects: Foreign objects, such as toys, can also get stuck in your bathtub drain and cause a clog.
Once you have identified the cause of the clog, you can begin to take steps to clear it.
Using a Plunger to Clear the Clog
A plunger is a simple and effective way to clear a bathtub clog. To use a plunger, follow these steps:
1. Place the plunger over the drain.
2. Push down on the plunger and pull up quickly.
3. Repeat this step several times until the clog is cleared.
If the clog is stubborn, you may need to use a plunger with a longer handle. You can also try using a chemical drain cleaner, but be sure to follow the directions on the product label carefully.
If you are unable to clear the clog yourself, you may need to call a plumber.
Preventing Bathtub Clogs
The best way to prevent bathtub clogs is to take steps to keep your drain clean. Here are a few tips:
- Shower with a drain cover to catch hair.
- Rinse your hair thoroughly before getting out of the shower.
- Avoid pouring grease or cooking oils down the drain.
- Clean your bathtub drain regularly with a de-clogging product.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your bathtub drain clear and free of clogs.
Using a Drain Snake to Clear the Clog
A drain snake is a long, flexible cable with a barbed head that is used to clear clogs in drains. It is a relatively simple tool to use, but it can be effective in clearing a variety of clogs, including hair, soap scum, and other debris.
To use a drain snake, first remove the drain cover from the bathtub drain. Then, insert the drain snake into the drain until you feel resistance. Turn the crank on the drain snake to move the barbed head through the clog. Continue to turn the crank until the clog is cleared and water begins to flow freely.
If the clog is stubborn, you may need to use a longer drain snake. You can also try using a chemical drain cleaner in conjunction with the drain snake.
Here are some tips for using a drain snake:
- Use a drain snake that is the same diameter as the drain opening.
- Do not force the drain snake into the drain if it is met with resistance. This could damage the drain.
- Turn the crank on the drain snake slowly and steadily.
- If the clog is not cleared after several attempts, you may need to call a plumber.
Using a Chemical Drain Cleaner to Clear the Clog
Chemical drain cleaners are a quick and easy way to clear a clog in a bathtub drain. However, it is important to use these products carefully, as they can be harmful if they are not used properly.
To use a chemical drain cleaner, first remove the drain cover from the bathtub drain. Then, pour the chemical drain cleaner into the drain. Follow the directions on the product label for the amount of cleaner to use and the amount of time to let it sit.
After the chemical drain cleaner has had time to work, flush the drain with hot water. The clog should be cleared and water should flow freely.
Here are some tips for using a chemical drain cleaner:
- Read the product label carefully and follow the directions for use.
- Wear gloves to protect your hands.
- Do not mix chemical drain cleaners with other household chemicals.
- Keep children and pets away from the bathtub while the chemical drain cleaner is working.
If the clog is not cleared after using a chemical drain cleaner, you may need to call a plumber.
There are a few different ways to unclog a bathtub drain with standing water. You can use a plunger, a drain snake, or a chemical drain cleaner. The best way to unclog your bathtub drain will depend on the type of clog and the severity of the clog. If you are not sure how to unclog your bathtub drain, you can always call a plumber for help.
How do I unclog a bathtub with standing water?
There are a few different ways to unclog a bathtub with standing water. Here are a few of the most common methods:
- Use a plunger. A plunger is a simple and effective way to clear a clog in your bathtub drain. To use a plunger, first fill the bathtub with enough water to cover the plunger cup. Then, place the plunger over the drain and push down and pull up on the plunger handle several times. The suction created by the plunger should help to loosen the clog and allow the water to drain.
- Use a drain snake. A drain snake is a long, flexible tool that can be used to reach into the drain and dislodge a clog. To use a drain snake, first remove the drain cover from the bathtub drain. Then, insert the drain snake into the drain and slowly feed it down until you reach the clog. Once you have reached the clog, turn the crank on the drain snake to loosen it. Continue to feed the drain snake down until the clog is completely removed.
- Use a chemical drain cleaner. Chemical drain cleaners are available at most hardware stores. These cleaners are designed to dissolve clogs by breaking down the organic matter that is causing the blockage. To use a chemical drain cleaner, first follow the directions on the product label. Then, pour the cleaner into the bathtub drain and let it sit for the amount of time specified on the label. After the cleaner has had time to work, flush the drain with hot water.
Which method is best for unclogging my bathtub?
The best method for unclogging your bathtub will depend on the type of clog and the severity of the blockage. If you have a small clog that is easily accessible, a plunger may be all you need. However, if you have a large or stubborn clog, you may need to use a drain snake or a chemical drain cleaner.
How do I prevent bathtub clogs?
There are a few things you can do to help prevent bathtub clogs:
- Keep your hair out of the drain. Hair is one of the most common causes of bathtub clogs. To prevent hair from clogging your drain, try to keep your hair out of the water when you’re taking a bath or shower. You can also use a hair catcher in the drain to catch any hair that does fall into the drain.
- Don’t pour grease or food down the drain. Grease and food can build up in your drain and cause a clog. Avoid pouring these substances down the drain whenever possible.
- Flush the drain regularly. Flushing the drain with hot water on a regular basis can help to keep it clear of clogs.
What if I can’t unclog my bathtub myself?
If you’ve tried to unclog your bathtub yourself and you’re still not having any luck, you may need to call a professional plumber. A plumber will be able to identify the cause of the clog and use the appropriate tools to clear it.
In this article, we have discussed how to unclog a bathtub with standing water. We have provided a step-by-step guide, as well as tips and tricks to help you get the job done quickly and easily. We hope that this information has been helpful, and that you are now able to enjoy your bathtub without any trouble.
Here are a few key takeaways from this article:
- The most common cause of bathtub clogs is hair.
- To prevent bathtub clogs, it is important to regularly clean the drain and to avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain.
- If you do experience a bathtub clog, you can try to clear it using a plunger, a drain snake, or a chemical drain cleaner.
- If you are unable to clear the clog yourself, you may need to call a plumber.
We encourage you to share this article with your friends and family so that they can also learn how to unclog a bathtub with standing water.
Author Profile
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Liana Farrell is the owner of toiletty.com. She is a mom of two and is very passionate about home improvement.
Liana has ten years of home improvement experience, and in her own words, she said: “I love improving the home, and I’m very passionate about keeping the home in the best possible condition. I love it!”
Liana Farrell balances beauty and functionality when she goes about her home improvement jobs.
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