Nothing ruins a relaxing bath or shower like standing in a pool of murky water that just won’t drain. A slow bathtub drain or fully clogged tub is an inconvenience, but it can also quickly develop into a bigger plumbing issue. Whether it’s a simple clog or something more serious hiding deeper in your pipes, it’s important to get to the root of the problem. As your local plumbing experts in Metro Detroit, we’re diving into the most common causes of tub clogs, when to try a DIY fix, and when to schedule plumbing repair with Detroit Furnace.
Common Causes of a Clogged Tub Drain
Most bathtub clogs develop over time due to one of these causes:
- Hair buildup: Hair strands easily wash down the drain and tangle together, gradually forming a clog that blocks water flow.
- Soap scum: Over time, the residue from bar soap can stick to the inside of your pipes and trap hair and other debris.
- Drain stopper issues: A stuck or poorly aligned drain stopper can restrict water flow or cause gunk to collect in hard-to-reach spots.
- Foreign objects: Small items like bath beads, jewelry, or toys can fall into the drain and create an obstruction.
- Clogged drain trap: The U-shaped pipe beneath your tub, known as the drain trap, can accumulate buildup that eventually stops water from passing through.
- Deeper plumbing issues: If multiple drains are backing up or clogs keep returning, there may be a larger blockage in the main drain line or even root intrusion from outside your home.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore a Slow Bathtub Drain
It can be easy to ignore a slow bathtub drain for a long time, especially if the tub eventually empties—but that delay can come at a cost. Ignoring the issue can lead to:
- Standing water that breeds bacteria, mold, and foul odors.
- Increased pressure on your pipes can lead to leaks or bursts.
- Bigger clogs and more expensive repairs if the blockage moves deeper into your plumbing system.
Acting early now can save you from a much more serious plumbing issue later on.
DIY Fixes for a Bathtub Clog
Some bathtub clogs can be resolved with a little elbow grease and a few basic tools. Here are some simple steps you can try at home:
- Remove the drain cover: Use a screwdriver to remove the cover and pull out any visible hair or debris using a gloved hand or a plastic drain-cleaning tool.
- Flush with hot water and dish soap: Pouring hot water mixed with a small amount of dish soap down the drain can help dissolve mild clogs caused by soap and grease buildup.
- Use a plunger or drain snake: A basic plunger can help dislodge shallow clogs. If that doesn’t work, try a hand-crank drain snake to break through stubborn blockages.
- Avoid chemical cleaners: While tempting, chemical drain cleaners can corrode pipes and create more problems in the long run.
When to Call a Professional
Not every clog is a quick fix. Some require special tools, video camera inspections, or repairs deeper within your plumbing system. Here are a few signs it’s time to schedule professional plumbing repair:
- The tub won’t drain at all, even after trying multiple methods.
- You’ve cleared the drain before, but it keeps clogging again.
- You hear bubbling or gurgling sounds coming from the drain.
- Other fixtures in your home (like sinks or toilets) are also draining slowly.
At Detroit Furnace, our team provides fast, effective drain cleaning services that go beyond the surface to solve the real problem. Our licensed plumbers come equipped to handle everything from small, single-drain clogs to sewer line repairs.
Clear That Tub Drain with Help from Detroit Furnace
A slow or clogged tub drain is a sign that your plumbing needs attention. At Detroit Furnace, we offer same-day appointments, 24/7 emergency plumbing services, and a team of friendly, certified technicians who take the time to do the job right. Call us today for advanced drain solutions, like hydrojetting, to get your plumbing flowing smoothly.
If your tub won’t drain or you’re tired of slow bathtub clogs in your Detroit-area home, contact Detroit Furnace to schedule drain cleaning services today.
