How do you unclog a bath tub in a house with older plumbing?
The bath tub in our house is always getting clogged. The house was built in 1915, with the plumbing dating around 1930. Therefore, I am warry of using harsh chemicals. We have three girls in our house, and hair is a huge problem.
We’ve had a plumber who suggested replacing the plumbing, but that is not in our budget at the time. What should I do or use?
We’ve tried those plugs in the past, but the drain opening is an odd width. And we can’t find one that fits properly.
I’m really interested in how to unclog it.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.
we have an older home, too, and with well-water loaded with lime to make things even more interesting! our tub used to get clogged all the time, too, and with a septic tank, chemical clog-busters are NOT recommended. I now use vinegar…just pour a cup or so down the drain at night or at a time when it won’t be used for awhile, and let it sit. i haven’t had to repeat the treatment for quite some time, and believe me, with our plumbing, that’s saying alot!! you might want to make it routine to use this treatment monthly or every couple months to keep things running smoothly. good luck!
Vinegar is not goin to get rid of the hair. There should be an overflow plate just below the tub spout. Take it off, usually has two screws. Cover the hole with a rag and use a GOOD plunger and try to plunge the drain. A pink plunger will not work. go to a hardware store and get the good most expensive plunger you can find. shouldnt be more than 10 bucks. Try this method over and over. If that doesnt work then go back to the hardware store and purchase a hand auger. Its a 1/4 inch cable in a small drum that you turn with your hand. If you see it then you should be able to figure out how to use it. If this doesnt work then you will need a plumber. In an older home you may have a drum trap under your house and if you do then there is no unclogging…not easily anyway, The drum trap needs to be replaced and you need to find some way to budget for that. If you even have a drum trap….good luck
Homemade Remedy:
Pour 2 cups boiling vinegar down drain,followed by 1/2 c baking soda;wait till bubbling action stops and flush with 1 gal boiling water. This is safe for septic systems and is not poisonous.