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Remove Drain Cover and Water — Remove the Drain Cover

Beginner3 hours

Part of project

How to Unclog a Shower Drain with Standing Water · Step 2 of 7

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In this video

Using the appropriate screwdriver, remove the screws holding the shower drain cover in place. Lift the cover off and set it and the screws aside in a safe place. If there is standing water in the shower, use the wet/dry vacuum to suction it all out before attempting to clear the drain itself.

Goal: Access the drain opening

Used in this video

  • Screwdriver (brand: Unbranded, Screwdriver Type: Phillips head, Flathead, Material of tools: Steel) — Removing the screws from the shower drain cover.
  • Shop Vacuum (brand: Rigid, Power Source: Electric) — Sucking up standing water.
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1 Tom Plumber

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FAQs

Is clearing a shower drain with standing water truly a 'beginner' project, and how long does it typically take?

Yes, it's considered beginner-friendly as it starts with simple, non-invasive methods. Most clogs can be cleared within an hour using basic techniques. The '3 hours' estimated time accounts for more stubborn clogs that might require using a plumber's snake, which still falls within a beginner's capability with proper guidance.

What are the most crucial safety precautions I should take when unclogging a shower drain, especially with standing water and potential grime?

Always wear safety glasses (like MCR Safety BearKat Safety Glasses MCSCRWBK110) to protect your eyes from splashes and debris. Waterproof gloves (like HANDS ON Men's Micro Fleece Gloves CT8500) are essential to protect your hands from dirty water and cleaning solutions. Ensure good ventilation, especially if you're using vinegar, and avoid touching your face.

Are there any essential tools or materials I might already have that can substitute for the specific brands listed, or are they all necessary?

Most household screwdrivers (flat head or Phillips) will work just fine; you don't necessarily need the specific Milwaukee or HDX models. Any baking soda and vinegar brand will suffice, and any kettle capable of heating water (like the KENMORE KKTK1.7S-D) can be used. The PLUMBFLEX drain snake (SU3248) is a specialized tool that is highly recommended for deeper clogs if natural solutions fail.

How do I effectively apply the baking soda and vinegar solution when the shower drain already has standing water?

First, manually scoop out as much standing water as possible from the shower pan using a cup or small bucket, then absorb remaining water with a towel. This allows the baking soda and vinegar to directly access the clog. Pour the baking soda directly into the drain opening, followed by the vinegar, allowing it to bubble and work on the blockage.

Transcript
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So go ahead and come on in closer. You want to remove the drain here. And as you can see here, a lot of this is hair soap. So this is exactly what the cause of the stoppages are typically, they're right around here. So let me go ahead and show you what that looks like after it's cleaned. So if you do have standing water, the first thing you want to do is extract the topical water that's above the drain. So we've already done that in this case. And we're going to go ahead and show you now

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