Bathtub Won’t Drain? Here’s What You Can Do About It

A Stuck Drain Stopper Might Be the Problem 

A lot of bathtubs come with built-in drain stoppers, but they can eventually become stuck because of soap scum, hair or worn-out parts. If the stopper doesn’t open completely, water might drain slowly or not at all. Lift or twist the stopper. If it’s stuck, remove and clean it. Depending on the kind of stopper you have, you could need to unscrew it or just pull it free. Look for debris that might be caught around the base, rinse it, and wipe away grime inside the drain opening. If the stopper has been damaged or is too worn out, you might want to replace it.

Hair and Soap Buildup Can Block the Drain 

Hair and soap can accumulate inside your drains and create large clogs. This is actually one of the most common causes of blocked bathtubs. If you suspect a hair clog, you can try:

• Drain Snake: A small plastic drain snake can pull out hair and debris.
• Plunger: Plungers can help break up clogs that are close to the surface. Fill your tub with a few inches of water, and plunge to try and dislodge the blockage.
• Baking Soda and Vinegar: Pour about a cup of baking soda into your drain, then pour a cup of white vinegar. Let it fizz for ten minutes and flush with hot water.

If these attempts fail, then the clog could be deep inside your plumbing system. A professional clogged drain cleaning in Rosamond, CA can help get things moving.

 Hard Water Can Create Drain Blockages Over Time 

Do you live in an area with hard water? Then, mineral deposits might be causing the problem. Hard water has higher than normal levels of magnesium, calcium, and other minerals that leave behind a chalky residue. The deposits narrow the diameter of your drain line and make it more difficult for water to flow through it. Signs of hard water buildup include white deposits near the bathtub drain and faucet, slow-draining water, and a history of local plumbing problems. A vinegar-based solution can sometimes break down mild mineral deposits, but more serious buildup might require professional descaling. If you have persistent hard water issues, a water softener installation can help you avoid trouble in the future.

 What If Your Bathtub Still Won’t Drain? 

Have you tried everything, but your bathtub still refuses to drain? Deeper clogs, tree roots, and damaged pipes can also prevent water from flowing. In these situations, professional services are the best solution. Here are some signs that you need to call a plumber:

• Multiple drain clogs in different areas of your home
• Bad odors near drains
• Backed up water in sinks and toilets, too
• Gurgling sounds when the water is running

A professional plumber can use specialized hydro-jetting equipment or motorized drain snakes to break through tough blockages. They can also inspect your pipes for signs of root infiltration or leaks so you can repair them before any water damage or serious problems occur.

 Is It Time for You to Invest in Professional Drain Services?

Do you have a stuck drain stopper, hair buildup, or hard water? If home remedies don’t work, professional services will get rid of the problem for good. Rooter Hero Plumbing & Air is here to provide drain cleaning solutions and pipe repairs you can depend on. If your bathtub won’t drain, contact our team to schedule an appointment.