If you have ever had the misfortune of dropping a large item down the drain of your shower, you know how difficult it can be to remove it. Clogged drains can be a hassle to deal with and can be even worse when a large object is stuck in the drain. Fortunately, there are a few methods you can use to remove a large object from your best shower drain wrenches. With the right tools and a bit of know-how, you can easily get rid of that pesky obstruction and get your shower running smoothly again. Read on to learn more about how to remove a large object from a shower drain.
Assessing the Drain
The first step to removing a large object from a shower drain is to assess the situation and determine the best course of action. The type of obstruction you are dealing with will help you choose the right method for removal. If the obstruction is large and dense, you may need to employ more force to remove it. If the obstruction is smaller, like a clump of hair, you will likely have better luck using a small-mouthed tool. You can also use the flow of water escaping from the drain as a clue as to how to proceed. If water is draining at a normal pace, you may be able to use a plunger to clear the drain. However, if water is not flowing normally, a drain snake or shop vacuum will be your best bet.
Using a Plunger
A plunger is one of the most common and effective ways to remove a large object from a shower drain. The process is simple. First, remove the end cap from the drain. Then, place the cup of the plunger over the drain opening. Finally, pump the plunger several times to create a vacuum that will pull the object out of the drain.
A plunger can be very effective at removing large objects from shower drains. The suction created by the plunger can pull the item toward the cup. Many objects that get stuck in showers are heavy and dense, so a plunger may be the best method for removing them. You may have to try a few times to remove the object, but the plunger is a reliable and cost-effective solution.
Using a Drain Snake
A drain snake is an auger-like device that is designed to remove large objects from drains. Drain snakes work by rotating a series of hooks inside the drain. The hooks grab onto the object and are then pulled out of the drain with the device. Drain snakes are essentially the same thing as a cable auger and can be used to remove any obstruction.
Drain snakes come in a variety of sizes and lengths and can be used on a wide range of drains. Before you use a drain snake, make sure the water is turned off. If the water is still flowing, the snake could get caught in the flow and be difficult to retrieve. Drain snakes are extremely effective at removing large objects from drains. The device has two ends and can be rotated 360 degrees to reach any corner.
If the obstruction is large, the snake can reach it no matter where it is located within the drain. The snake is also flexible enough to be bent to fit in a variety of different drain shapes. Drain snakes are extremely durable and can be used many times. If you are dealing with a serious blockage, a drain snake is a good investment. The device will help you get rid of the object once and for all.
Using a Shop Vacuum
A shop vacuum is another device that can be used to remove large objects from a shower drain. Shop vacs are powerful devices with small mouths that can get into tight places like drain pipes. Shop vacs can be used to suck out the object, or you can insert a small suction tool to pull out the item by hand. If the obstruction is larger than the mouth of the vacuum, you may need to use a wire or a rope to help pull the item out.
Shop vacs can be used to remove a variety of large objects from a drain. The device has plenty of suction power to pull out large items from a drain with ease. Shop vacs are versatile and can be used to suck up a variety of different materials. If you have a serious blockage in your shower, a shop vacuum is a good investment. The device will help you get rid of the object once and for all.
Using Pliers or a Wrench
If the obstruction is smaller, like a clump of hair, you may be able to use pliers or a wrench to remove it. Wrap the pliers or wrenches with a cloth to prevent scratches. Place the tool over the drain opening and use the wrench or pliers to pull out the obstruction. You can also use pliers to remove hooks or other small items that may have fallen into the drain. Wrapping the tool with a cloth can help protect the surface of the drain. Pliers and wrenches are simple and inexpensive tools that can be used to remove smaller objects from a drain. If the obstruction is larger and heavier, you will likely need to use another tool to remove it.
Cleaning the Drain
If you have tried all of these methods and the object still does not budge, there may be a more serious issue at hand. The first thing to do is turn off the water to the shower and flush out the drain pipe. You can use a standard pipe cleaner or a wire hanger to clean the area. Additionally, you can use a drain cleaner to break up the obstruction. If the clog is due to a buildup of hair, you will want to clean the drain regularly to prevent it from happening again.
Now that you know how to remove a large object from a shower drain, you can breathe a sigh of relief knowing you don’t have to call a plumber every time you drop your shampoo bottle in the drain. With a bit of know-how and the right tools, you can remove any obstruction with ease. When in doubt, remember that a shop vacuum is your friend.