Hi all. Plumbing noob here. We live in a newly constructed home and noticed our master shower was not draining very well. So I unscrewed the metal guard and took a look down and I see this 2 inch waxy / plastic thing about 5 inches from the top with the words “ knock out". Now there is a small hole that appears to have been drilled open in this thing that is about 3/4 inches wide. So the shower water is being forced to go down this tiny opening instead of the whole thing being open. What is this thing? Should it be here? I feel like this is what is causing the water to drain so poorly . Should I drill more holes? It appears to be glued on so I can't just " lift it off ". Any suggestions appreciated!

Yes, that plug is causing the problem. Do you have a warranty on the property? The plug should be fully removed, without any sharp remnants sticking out that will catch hair and cause another blockage. A hole saw on an extension would remove the whole plug.

Hitting it with a long screwdriver will break it out, but you also have to be sure not to let it fall into the drain line.

I tried hitting it and it feels like it's glued solid. Can I cut it out with a small saw ourr knife? For my information what is this and what should have been the correct procedure at install? Yes, all is under warranty but I like getting things done myself.

If you have a warranty, get those folks out to fix their problem. They need to know they screwed up. Besides, if you damage something in your process, then it will be your problem no matter where that expense and issues go. You will have given these people an out.....................

If you MUST DIY (not recommended):

Use a toggle on an eye-bolt with a cord to hook the plastic knock out so it can not drop.

Use a LONG flat screwdriver to 'chisel' around the outer edge of the piece until it comes free.

Slow and easy with patience.


You are welcome

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"Measure Twice & Cut Once" - Retired U.A. Local 1 & 638

It IS "glued solid" so it could be water tested, but it IS called a "knock out plug" so it can be removed by a few taps on a screwdriver.

Thanks to all. I resisted the urge to fix it myself and called the builders and they came and knocked it out but the plug fell into the drain..... They said it would be fine. Famous last words.....



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The knockout SHOULD be the same size as the drain so it will stay in there and flop open and closed like a butterfly valve.

Quote

They said it would be fine.

What a bunch of Toric Ka-Ka

Have them retrieve the piece.

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"Measure Twice & Cut Once" - Retired U.A. Local 1 & 638

This is precisely why I prefer to do things myself. If you wanna get things done right....

You might try a shop wet/dry vac to retrieve it. It won't make it worse and maybe it will come out.



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Fine if it gets past the trap, and the bends until it reaches a larger branch. I would make them get a camera out and confirm is gone out to the city sewer. Maybe that expense will spur them to do it right the first time.