The tub is clogged and fills up when using the sink

 

It's not uncommon for debris to build up in a bathtub's siphon and clog the drain. However, if the tub backs up when you pour water into the sink, you can be sure that the tub's trap is unclogged. It's obvious that there's a clog, but it's past the point where the sink and tub drains converge. There are several ways to clear the clog. If one doesn't work, try another.

Assess the situation

Soap scum, hair and other debris can easily clog a bathtub drain, and the clog grows the slower the water flows and the more debris can settle. If you don't know where the clog is, the bathtub drain is usually a good place to start looking, but not if water from the sink is backing up into the tub. This backflow is a sign that the trap is unclogged. The clog is likely several feet from the drain, so you can't reach it with a snake inserted into the drain opening - usually a reliable strategy.

Immersing the tub

For the plunger to have the greatest effect, the tub must be filled with about 5 cm of water. If you stuff a rag into the tub's overflow pipe and block the sink's drain with a plug or another rag, all of the plunger's force will be directed at the clog. After placing the faucet around the tub drain so that it makes an airtight seal, pump it vigorously several times and then lift it off the drain. You may see bubbles coming out of the drain, or the tub may begin to slowly drain. These are signs that the plug is working.

Using an auger or bubble

Although an auger has no effect when inserted through the tub drain, it can be effective if you can find a fixture to clean into. An inflatable bladder is also good for cleaning drains. To do this, connect it to a garden hose and insert it into the drain. When you turn on the hose, the bladder fills with water and seals it against the pipe. Then it begins to flow into the pipe itself. As the bladder seals the drain opening, the water must flow in the other direction, developing enough force to clear the clog.

Use of drain cleaners

Care must be taken when using drain cleaners. The ones that work the fastest are either caustic or acidic, and they can damage your pipes. They are also harmful to the environment and should be avoided if you are connected to a septic system. Enzyme-based cleaners are safer, but they work slowly and are probably better for preventing clogs than for clearing them in a hurry. You can have some success with a homemade drain cleaner made from baking soda and white vinegar. Like enzyme cleaners, a homemade cleaner takes time to work, but it is safe and environmentally friendly.

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