Clogged drain problem that doesn't make sense

[JoeH]

You could be right about the drain lin e from the shower, but if it was done to code it should not be connected directly to the line for the toilet.

If you have access to the vent pipe that goes through the roof, I would run a long enough snake through that to see f there is a blockage. A clogged vent can cause weird backups when the air can not vent when a shower or sink is draining.

[mstudio]

Good idea, it’s only a one story house with a flat roof so should be easy to get to. Still trying to decide if this is a me or Monday morning plumber job. She does keep giving us wine and really good home cooked Greek food for helping her now and again so this is a tough decision to make.

[Carm]

Try Green Gobbler.
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Green-Gobble.../206864994
After you snake the line. I use their bio flow sticks to keep the wash drain and laundry room drains free from odors.

To answer the question: “me or Monday” plumber. I would ask the wife. If she was ok with what you already did.
Snake the line.

[pqrst]

Silly question but I've cleared a few clogs by using a toilet plunger to force air down a shower drain. Good way to get some exercise and it makes a satisfying whomp whimper sound. Even if it doesn't work.

[Yoyodyne ArtWorks]

Samuel L. Jackson leads a stellar cast in this probing sequel: “Snakes in a Drain: This Time It’s Personal!”

[MrNoBody]

When my bathroom drains are clogged & pulling the bits of hair out doesn't completely
clear it, I use Roto-Rooter Max Gel Clog Remover.
It's cheap, doesn't hurt pipes, and it just works using 6-8oz.
Only have to use it 2 or 3x a year. Walmart also sells it, a little cheaper than HD.

SDS PDF

[JoeH]

MrNoBody wrote:
When my bathroom drains are clogged & pulling the bits of hair out doesn't completely
clear it, I use Roto-Rooter Max Gel Clog Remover.
It's cheap, doesn't hurt pipes, and it just works using 6-8oz.
Only have to use it 2 or 3x a year. Walmart also sells it, a little cheaper than HD.

Basically a mixture of bleach and lye. Unless you know this is going to clear the clog, don't use it. The plumber called for Monday will appreciate it. If you do use this, or other drain cleaner and still have to call a plumber, let them know before they start working on the drain

[mstudio]

Thanks all. I'm not saying I will, but if I go the liquid cleaner route, I'm guessing I would just pour it down the toilet drain since I have the toilet removed and that's where it appears to back up.

I think I may go and purchase that better-snake-than-mine at HD/Lowes. I really don't like using chemicals and my dear wife thinks we should help her out since she freaks easily.

[Ombligo]

Let her know what you propose, give the I can try if you want, I'd do this at my house, BUT I'm not responsible if something goes bad. Let her decide between you and the plumber.

[RAMd®d]

Samuel L. Jackson leads a stellar cast in this probing sequel: “Snakes in a Drain: This Time It’s Personal!”

POMTL!


if I go the liquid cleaner route, I'm guessing I would just pour it down the toilet drain

I use Liquid Plumber once every month or two in my drains and all is peachy.

But it says on the bottle not to use it in toilets. I don't know why. Maybe it's because a toilet might be on a septic tank system. Maybe it's because of a potential splash back.

Just something to keep in mind, at least until someone has a definitive answer.