What To Do When You Can't Reach A Bathtub Clog
Unclogging a bathtub can be fairly straightforward or quite a challenge. The strainer on top of the drain can become clogged by hair, soap, and other debris. Unclogging the tub in such a situation is simple. However, bathtub clogs sometimes are much further down the drain.
When you can't reach whatever is clogging the bathtub, you'll have to take certain measures to try and unclog it. There are many different approaches that you can take depending on the severity of the problem.
Pour Hot Water Down the Drain
Soap and grease are two of the most common causes of clogged drains. Soap and grease allow other debris to stick to them, leading to a buildup that disrupts the flow of water down the drain. Luckily, this is a problem that hot water can often fix. Boiling water can help to loosen the blockage, and can even be used in combination with other methods to get rid of the clog.
Try Using a Plunger
Using a plunger may not always work, but it's definitely worth trying. The plunger can be used to force water down the pipes, and the incompressible water will be like a solid piston pushing down on the clog. Depending on what is causing the clog, this could be enough to dislodge it and clear your drain.
Vinegar and Baking Soda
Mixing baking soda and vinegar is the alternative to store-bought chemicals. This mixture can dissolve the clog in a few hours, unclogging the drain. This method is plumbing-friendly and won't cause any damage to your pipes and fixtures. However, there is no guarantee that this method will work every time.
Remove the Drain Cover
You can extend your reach down the drain by removing the cover from the drain. This will mean having to manually pull out whatever is clogging the tub. This works well when you're dealing with hair or small objects. However, if the clogging is caused by a mineral buildup, you'll need to find an alternative solution. Ensure you wear gloves when using your hands.
Use a Plumber's Snake
When you can't reach the clog with your hands, using a plumber's snake will be much more effective. This is one of the most effective methods used to clear clogged drains. A plumber's snake has a long reach. If you can't get one, you should call a drain cleaning services company to handle the problem.
Call a Plumber
If none of these work, you've got a nasty clog on your hands! A plumber will take it to the next level with trying to remove the clog. One of the big things they can do is provide video pipe inspection services, where they will place a camera down the drain to see what exactly is clogging the pipes. This way, they can give you an action plan that is going to work.