How To Un^hot^ Freeze Shower Drain

I ran the hot water for five minutes to flush out any remaining loose debris. The pipe was clear.

Glug. Glug. WHOOSH.

Sewer gases backing up because the water in the P-trap has turned to a solid block. how to unfreeze shower drain

Use this if you can access the drain trap under the shower (basement or crawlspace).

Once I finally heard that glorious gurgle of success, I learned my lesson. Now, I leave the bathroom cabinet doors open to let warm air circulate, and for the really brutal nights, I use a little RV antifreeze if the shower is in an exposed area. I ran the hot water for five minutes

But the water didn't drain. The clog was deeper. The plastic strip couldn't reach the bend in the pipe where the real nightmare was happening.

I fed it down. It hit resistance about six inches in. I spun it, pulled it back, and—success. A clump of black sludge came up. It was disgusting, but it was progress. I fed it down again. Use this if you can access the drain

I didn’t realize I’d signed up for a polar exploration when I stepped into the shower this morning, but there I was, standing in three inches of slush. If you’re currently looking at a shower drain that has turned into a miniature glacier, here is the survival guide that actually worked for me:

Can Shower Drains Freeze? Causes, Warning Signs & How to Fix It Fast