Check out some similar questions!

Billscar · Apr 3, 2014, 04:19 AM

Hi.
I want to remove an existing shower plug to find out if there is a hair trap and also to replace it with a plug that can accommodate a plug sieve.
Can anyone advise me how to do this.
I have tried to twist the plug clockwise and it is very stiff. It has already broken the spokes in the middle. If I know that the plug is likely to be fixed with a thread then I will continue until removed.
Many thanks.

massplumber2008 · Apr 3, 2014, 05:14 AM

Hi Bill

It sounds like you are talking about a shower STRAINER? If so, most strainers either pop up and out (use flat tip screwdriver all around the edges and slowly pry up), or if there are two screws, unscrew screws and pop the strainer up (I doubt you have this type or you would see the screws).

Otherwise, see if you can post a picture of what you are working on and we'll see what we think, OK?

Mark

Billscar · Apr 3, 2014, 07:13 AM

Hi Mark
Thanks for the response. I think it is an ordinary plug. I would like to replace it with a strainer.
Here is a photo:
Name: Showerplug.jpg
Views: 1295
Size: 19.6 KB

Name: Showerplug.jpg
Views: 1295
Size: 19.6 KB

When I put a wrench into the gaps and turn, the whole top turns. I had expected the middle spoked piece to come out separately. This central piece is now broken so I will need to replace it even if I can't find something that I can add the strainer to.
The strainer I have is like this:http://www.ebay.co.uk/bhp/shower-hair-trap
(The listing, 'chrome large and small'.)
Many thanks. Jake (I was issued the user name billscar)

massplumber2008 · Apr 3, 2014, 08:20 AM

Hi Jake

I have never heard about anyone being ASSIGNED a name on this site...I would suggest taking that up with the site over at feedback:

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/feedback/

Otherwise, I would try using a pair of needlenose pliers stuck down into the grate to remove the strainer...twist back and forth and pull up and it should pop out. After you get that out post a picture of the inside of the strainer and I'll see what I can tell you about removing the entire assembly.

PS: Your "attachment": would not upload.

Billscar · Apr 3, 2014, 08:36 AM

Name: Showerplug02.jpg
Views: 649
Size: 24.5 KB

Thanks for the help. Much appreciated.
I will contact the site about the name.
I hope the image has come through this time. It appears here in the message before I send it.
I'll have a go with the pliers, but I think it is all one piece.
Best.
Jake

massplumber2008 · Apr 3, 2014, 08:56 AM

It is definitely NOT one piece...center strainer part is just seized in there...;)

Billscar · Apr 3, 2014, 09:31 AM

Ok. Thanks. I will try and remove it tomorrow.
Best.
Jake

Billscar · Apr 4, 2014, 04:02 AM

Name: shower02.jpg
Views: 1869
Size: 31.8 KB

Thanks Mark. You were totally correct.
So that I can finish the job -
Should there be a well of water sitting 3" down?
Because I twisted the outer chrome ring, I have sealed it roughly with silicone. Will it pry off so that I can seal it neatly with silicone underneath? Or does it screw off?
Thanks again.
Jake

massplumber2008 · Apr 4, 2014, 11:46 AM

Hi Jake

Yes, there should be water 3" down...that's the water in the PTRAP...keeps the sewer gasses from the drain from coming into your home.

Most shower strainers do NOT screw off, but yours actually looks like it might, but that could be asking for trouble so I wouldn't mess with it unless it is necessary. Is it?

Mark