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How to Unblock a Bath or Shower

April 4, 2016

How to unblock a bath or sink

In this post, we answer the question 'How to Unblock a Bath or Shower?' If you've just completed a hard day's work, there's nothing more annoying than discovering your bath or shower is not working.  When I'm ready for a good wash, I feel very sweaty and dirty if I can't have one, even if I'm pretty clean! And let's not forget that having a shower or bath is about much more than just getting clean.

Many of you will bath or shower in order to wash away the day's stresses and worries. So not being able to have a shower or bath really is a big deal!

Signs of a blocked shower or bath

If your bath/shower is totally blocked, you surely know you've got a problem.

However, most people will experience slow drainage before a total blockage arises.

If your bath is slow to drain, you could well have a blockage.

And this block is typically the result of an onslaught of dead skin and hair being forced down the drain over many years.

The good news is that there's a solution that won't cost a lot of money to implement.

And cheap is always a bonus!

If the blockage is minor, you won't even need to call in the professionals to put things right.

Yes, you can sort it yourself.

For free.

Fixing a minor blockage

Now I outline how you can fix your faulty drains.

I outline the solution to your problem in 3 easy steps:

 

Plumbing tools

 

Step 1: Purchase the necessary tools/liquids

Before you begin your quest to unblock the blockage, you could consider purchasing the following items needed for the job.

This includes:

  • Drain unblocking liquid
  • A plunger
  • White vinegar

 

Step 2: Try liquid agents

Now you've purchased the above items, you must pour the drain unblocking liquid and white vinegar down the sink. This natural mixture will hopefully break up the blockage that's causing the problem.

Pro tip: Avoid using acid. It's tempting to use acid since it is guaranteed to unblock any debris. This is because acid is the most powerful agent you could possible use and acid will burn through stubborn debris such as hair. However, acid will discolour the bath, including chrome/gold taps or bath holes.

 

 

remove and clean the u-bend

 

Step 3: Remove the U-bend

If the above does not remove the blockage, you must attempt mechanical clearance.

This involves removing your bath panel.

This will expose the U-bend.

This is similar to the one under your kitchen sink.

A build up of dead skin/hair/grease in the U-bend is a common cause for bath blockages.

If the problem is sufficiently bad, step 1-2 above will not solve the problem.

Carefully remove the U-bend without damaging it.

Perhaps take a picture of the U-bend before you dismantle it so you can see how it is put back together again when you have finished unblocking the U-bend.

And remember to use a small bucket so you can catch any excess water that's released when you remove the U-bend.

Once the U-bend has been removed, you must thoroughly clean it.

The debris in the U-bend could present a health hazard, so use plastic gloves and dispose of the debris correctly.

Once complete, reassemble the U-bend and reattach the bath panel.

Calling in the professionals

If the above does not clear the blockage, then it is advisable to call in the professionals. The problem may require a professional to fix the problem by replacing pipes. For drain repair Wirral,call RPD NW on 0151 668 0833 or contact us through this website.

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