Unclogging a bathtub drain can be a frustrating experience, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right tools and technique, you can easily clear the clog yourself without having to call a plumber. A simple plunger can often do the trick if you use it correctly. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to unclog a bathtub drain with a plunger.
What You Need
- Plunger – Preferably a flange or cup plunger designed for sink and tub drains
- Hot water
- Petroleum jelly or cooking oil
- Gloves
- Old towel
Before You Start
- First, try to determine where the clog is located. If you have an accessible overflow plate, remove it and see if you can spot the clog from there.
- Place an old towel on the bottom of the tub to prevent scratches as you work.
- Put on gloves to protect your hands.
- Fill the tub with enough hot water to cover the drain opening completely. The hot water will help loosen the clog.
How to Plunge the Drain
- Place the plunger firmly over the drain opening to form a tight seal.
- Fill the tub with enough hot water to cover the plunger entirely. The water pressure will help dislodge the clog.
- Give the plunger several vigorous pumps straight down into the drain. Really work it to loosen the clog.
- When you pull the plunger up, break the seal so water from the drain can flow up into it.
- Repeat pumping and pulling up on the plunger several times. This forces air into the drain to break up the clog.
Tips and Tricks
- If the plunger isn’t getting a tight seal over the drain, apply petroleum jelly or cooking oil around the rim to help form a watertight plunge.
- Really put your back into plunging straight down. Using your body weight will create more force.
- If you have a double sink, use the other basin to plunge dirty drain water down the second drain.
- Take breaks if you get tired. Fifteen minutes of vigorous plunging can make a difference.
- Try using a drain snake or chemical drain opener if plunging fails to clear the clog completely.
When to Call a Plumber
Call a professional if:
- You’ve tried plunging repeatedly with no results
- The clog is deep in the main pipe
- You see standing water in your yard from a sewer backup
- The drain has chronic clogging issues
Avoid chemical drain cleaners if you have a septic system, as they can damage it. For severe clogs, a plumber has specialized tools like augers to fully clear blockages that a plunger cannot. But in many simple cases, a basic plunger can effectively and affordably unclog a bathtub drain. With some patience and elbow grease, you can often break up the clog and get your tub draining freely again.
FAQs About Unclogging a Bathtub Drain with a Plunger
What type of plunger is best for bathtub drains?
A heavy-duty flanged or accordion cup plunger is ideal. The flange helps create a tight seal over the drain opening. Stay away from flat sink plungers.
How do I create a good seal when plunging?
Wet the rim of the plunger and spread petroleum jelly or cooking oil around it before placing it over the drain. The lubricant helps form an airtight plunge.
How hot should the water be?
As hot as your tap allows. Near-boiling water is best for loosening slimy soap buildup or grease clogs. Caution: Don’t scald yourself.
What should I do if plunging isn’t working?
Take a break and let the hot water work on the clog for 15-20 minutes. Then plunge again. Still no luck? Try a chemical drain opener or metal drain snake.
Can plunging damage my pipes?
No. A plunger is perfectly safe if used correctly. Just be sure the seal is tight so you’re not hammering air into gaps around the sides. That can blow out gaskets.
What causes bathtub clogs?
Hair and soap scum are the usual culprits. Toys, bath bombs, shaving cream cans and other foreign objects accidentally dropped down the drain can also clog it.
How can I prevent future clogs?
Install drain screens to catch hair and debris. Don’t force things down the drain. Avoid oil-based products that coagulate. And do routine maintenance plunging.
In Summary
Unclogging a bathtub drain with a plunger is an easy, affordable DIY fix you can try before calling a plumber. All it takes are a few simple tools and the proper plunging technique. Position the plunger over the drain opening to form an airtight seal. Fill the tub with hot water before you start plunging. Then pump the plunger vigorously straight down to force air into the clogged drain and dislodge the blockage. Keep at it, take breaks if needed, and mix in different tricks until the drain is moving freely again. With some patience and persistence, the suction and pressure created by a standard plunger can knock out many tub clogs for a fraction of the cost of a plumbing service call.
