10 Seconds To Remove Your Shower Drain Cover: The Easy, No-tool Method!

A clogged shower drain can be a frustrating inconvenience that can lead to water backups and unpleasant odors. One of the first steps in unclogging a shower drain is to remove the drain cover. However, removing a shower drain cover can be a tricky task, especially if you’ve never done it before. In this blog post, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide on how to remove shower drain covers, including different types of drain covers and methods for removing them.

Types of Shower Drain Covers

There are two main types of shower drain covers:

• Screw-in drain covers: These covers are screwed into the drainpipe and can be removed using a screwdriver.
• Pop-up drain covers: These covers are held in place by a spring-loaded mechanism and can be removed by pressing down on the center of the cover and lifting it up.

Tools You’ll Need

Before you start, gather the following tools:

• Screwdriver (for screw-in drain covers)
• Pliers (for pop-up drain covers)
• Rag or towel
• Bucket or bowl

Removing Screw-In Drain Covers

1. Locate the screws: Screw-in drain covers typically have two or three screws located around the perimeter of the cover.
2. Unscrew the screws: Using a screwdriver, carefully unscrew the screws until they are loose enough to remove.
3. Lift off the cover: Once the screws are removed, gently lift the drain cover off the drainpipe.

Removing Pop-Up Drain Covers

1. Press down on the center: Locate the center of the pop-up drain cover and press down firmly.
2. Lift up the cover: While pressing down, gently lift the cover up and out of the drainpipe.
3. Remove the spring: Once the cover is removed, you may need to remove a spring-loaded mechanism from the bottom of the drainpipe.

Cleaning the Drain Cover

Once you’ve removed the drain cover, take a few minutes to clean it. Use a rag or towel to wipe away any hair, soap scum, or debris. You can also use a mild cleaning solution to disinfect the cover.

Reinstalling the Drain Cover

Once the drain cover is clean, it’s time to reinstall it.

• For screw-in drain covers: Align the cover with the drainpipe and screw it in using the screwdriver. Tighten the screws until they are snug but not overtightened.
• For pop-up drain covers: Insert the spring-loaded mechanism into the bottom of the drainpipe, if necessary. Then, align the cover with the drainpipe and press down on the center until it clicks into place.

Troubleshooting

If you’re having trouble removing or reinstalling the drain cover, try the following troubleshooting tips:

• Use a larger screwdriver: If the screws are rusted or stuck, try using a larger screwdriver that fits snugly into the screw head.
• Apply penetrating oil: If the screws are particularly stubborn, apply a few drops of penetrating oil to loosen them up.
• Contact a plumber: If you’re unable to remove the drain cover yourself, don’t hesitate to contact a licensed plumber for assistance.

Preventing Clogs

To prevent future clogs, follow these tips:

• Install a drain strainer: A drain strainer can catch hair and other debris before it enters the drain.
• Clean the drain cover regularly: Remove and clean the drain cover every few months to prevent buildup.
• Use enzymatic drain cleaners: Enzymatic drain cleaners can break down organic matter that can cause clogs.
• Avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain: Grease and oil can solidify and clog the drain.

Common Questions and Answers

Q: How often should I remove and clean my shower drain cover?
A: It’s recommended to remove and clean the drain cover every few months, or more frequently if you have long hair or use a lot of hair products.

Q: Can I use a hair dryer to remove a stuck drain cover?
A: Yes, you can try using a hair dryer to heat up the screws or the drain cover itself. This may help to loosen them up and make them easier to remove.

Q: What should I do if I can’t remove the drain cover?
A: If you’re unable to remove the drain cover yourself, contact a licensed plumber for assistance. They have the tools and expertise to safely remove the cover and unclog the drain.