by Joe Brooks

Created on: October 30, 2010

All types of plumbing fixtures are likely to develop clogs over time. The bathtub is no exception. Fortunately, the bathtub drain usually does not become clogged suddenly, but will warn you with signs of slow draining. When you see the slight backup of water caused by a developing clog, it is time to act. If you take matters into your own hands now, it might not be necessary to call the plumber latter on.

Even though most of us realize that a bathtub drain will clog with hair, soap, and body oils eventually, most of us do not take the steps we could to prevent the clog from ever happening. They sell drain covers at home goods stores that can be cleaned easily and will prevent hair clogs from developing. However, once you do see the slow drainage that means you have a clog, there are some simple steps you can take to  re-establish the flow.

The first step is to try hot water. Run the hot water for several minutes and see if that gets the job done. As the clog is likely to be hair bound by soap and oils, you have a fair chance of success with this simply tactic. If the hot water trick does not work, the plunger is next.

Use the flat faced plunger, not the flange type that is used for the toilet. You should cover the overflow with a wet washcloth or a rag, and you want a couple of inches of water in the tub to be able to develop some suction. Apply the plunger vigorously enough to break up the clog and send it on down the line. If you pull any hair clog within reach, you can fish that out to clear the drain. If the plumber's friend should fail you, you may wish to try the snake next.

The plumber's auger or snake is designed to break up clogs and to catch the offending material so that you can pull the plug out of the drain. You will need to remove the drain cover. Then introduce the end of the snake and twist it through the drain, patiently working your way through the P-trap. That is where the clog is likely to be. Pull out any plugging material that attaches to the snake and run plenty of hot water through the now freely flowing drain. If the snake cannot reach the clog, you may wish to try chemical drain openers.

Be sure to observe all the safety precautions recommended by the manufacturer. Drain cleaners are dangerous. Do not breath the fumes. Never mix products, thinking that if one will not work the other might do the trick. Such a random mixture could develop some really toxic effects. If the drain cleaner fails to clear the clog, remember that you should not resort to the plunger again. That could splash harmful chemicals and cause serious injury. You may wish to stop before the chemical step and call the plumber. If you have resorted to chemicals and no relief is found, it is time to call your local plumbing specialist.

There is no reason not to try the hot water technique, and the plunger is easy enough to use as well. Any time beyond the plunger, however, you would be well-justified to call in a professional. Your local licensed  plumber knows how those drains are designed and installed. He will be able to clear your clog quickly and save you from expensive mistakes. If repairs or improvements are needed your plumber can advise. It is good to be able to fix it yourself, but also great to have the number of a good plumber handy when you need it.

Learn more about this author, Joe Brooks.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.