Blocked drains are probably the most common problem that every household experiences from time to time, but not all drains are the same. A clogged shower drain is different from a clogged kitchen drain not only in the cause of the blockage but also in how it can be cleared.
So if you are wondering why the plunger did not work, or why your kitchen sink is more difficult to repair, it is all related to the fact that these are designed to handle different things. Now let’s break down these differences and understand how each drain snaking operates.
The Culprits: What Causes the Clogs?
Shower Drains: Shower drains deal with blockages that build up over time from:
- The most frequent reason for clogging of shower drains is hair. It is washed away in the drain and forms a thicker mass that is hard to dissolve.
- Soaps combine with minerals in water to form a sticky deposit which tends to constrict pipes.
- These can be mixed with soap and hair to form a hard, thick, and slimy mass that is difficult to remove.
Kitchen Drains: Kitchen drains face an entirely different set of challenges:
- Some food particles are washed down the sink and they deposit themselves at the sides of the pipes.
- Greases from boiling can solidify in the drain pipe and, therefore, form a sticky mess that ensnares other materials.
- As time goes on the soap used on the dishes forms a film on the walls of the pipes which only makes it worse.
The Snaking Process: How It’s Done
Even though the goal is to clear the obstruction, thesewer snaking process will depend on whether you are dealing with a shower or a kitchen sink drain.
Snaking a Shower Drain:
It is easier to snake a shower drain since the clog is likely to be nearer the surface than in the main drain.
- Remove the Drain Cover: Begin by removing the drain cover either by unscrewing it or using a pry bar to open it up to see the clog.
- Use a Handheld Snake: A manual drain snake has a coiled or hooked end of it which is suitable for removing hair clogs and debris.
- Feed the Snake: Place the snake into the drain and turn the handle to place the snake into the pipe. Once you experience the kind of resistance, turn and pull the snake out as you unlock it to clear the blockage.
- Flush the Drain: Crack the tap open and let hot water run through the pipe to check if it is clear.
In most cases, shower clogs can be cleared within a short time, but where the clog persists, a professional may employ equipment such as those that are motorized to clean deeply.
Snaking a Kitchen Drain:
Kitchen drains are more difficult to deal with because clogs are deeper and packed more tightly.
- Access the Pipe: If the clog is not reachable through the sink drain you may be forced to remove the P-trap, which is a U-shaped pipe under the sink.
- Use a Heavier Snake: A more robust, motorized drain auger is frequently required for kitchen blockages, particularly grease blockages.
- Break Up the Clog: When pouring the snake into the drain, move it in circles to disaggregate congealed grease and food deposits. Inflate the balloon and continue to push until one can slide the snake with ease.
- Reassemble and Test: When the clog has been cleared, reconnect the P-trap and turn on the faucet to check if the blockage has been cleared.
Why Is Snaking Plumbing Different for Each Drain
The only difference is that the materials that form the clog are different. Soft items such as hair and soap, which can easily be hooked and pulled out, clog shower drains most of the time. Kitchen drains, however, are more likely to develop drain clogs that stick to the inner walls of the pipe—grease, oils, and food particles demand more pressure and at times, hydrojetting.
Should You Try Doing It Yourself or Hire a Professional?
Snaking a drain might seem easy and it is, but there are cases when it is wiser to hire a professional.
- DIY for Shower Drains: Most hair blockages in shower drains can be dealt with using simple equipment. If you are sure, go ahead and try this one.
- Call a Pro for Kitchen Drains: Kitchens are usually more difficult to access and to clean out the clogs that may be present. Excessive grease could also mean other issues further down the line that could only be diagnosed using complex equipment or specialists. Choosing a good plumbing company is a wise decision.
The Reliable Solution
When it comes to difficult drain blockages, highly trained plumbers use equipment that will solve the problem without compromising the health of your drains. At Reliable Source Plumbing and Drains Pvt Ltd, the experts are excellent in handling every issue right from shower drain blockage to kitchen sink repair. From a fast snake through to a full drain investigation, their technicians make sure your drains are clear and problem-free. They also have emergency plumber for midnight plumbing issues.
Final Thoughts
Though shower and kitchen sink drains may appear identical, their blockages and ways to eliminate them are vastly different. It is one thing to remove hair and soap scum in the shower, but a whole different thing to deal with kitchen blockages that require more forceful tools and methods.
If you are not sure or you have a stubborn clog, do not hesitate to call the best plumbing services. A little advice from an expert today can help you avoid major plumbing issues in the future.
