Residential Drain Cleaning – Clogged Shower Drain
A clogged shower drain is easy to identify. The first sign of a blocked shower drain is usually 1-2″ of standing water that pools around the feet while taking a shower. If the water level stays consistent without increasing, this can indicate that a clog is just starting to form. Left untreated, the clog will most likely get worse over time. Eventually, the water may completely stop draining, which will prevent any use of the shower.
Other signs that your shower drain is clogged are:
- Gurgling sounds coming from the drain
- Water which takes a long time to drain
- Foul smells coming from the shower drain
Leaving a clogged drain is also harmful to your health. Bacteria will start to grow and mold can start to develop. The licensed journeyman plumbers of All Pro Plumbing Services can quickly clear out any shower drains around the Portland OR area.
How to Clear a Clogged Bathtub Drain
The number one cause of shower drain clogs is hair and soap buildup. Luckily, there are several ways to unclog a shower or bathtub drain. The simplest method is to remove the drain cover and use a plunger over the drain. This can help push the clog out of the shower drain and into the larger sewer pipe where it will be washed away. To prevent future clogs, installing a hair catcher over the drain will prevent clumps of hair from accumulating in the drain.
The next step most homeowners take is to try drain cleaning chemicals. Caution must be used as most of these products contain harsh chemicals that can damage skin and eyes. Read the label thoroughly and always follow the instructions on the bottle. Never use drain cleaners when there is standing water that won’t drain at all.
If a plunger will not work and chemical drain cleaners are unsuccessful, a qualified plumber will have a professional-quality snake that can break up and clean out tough clogs.
Be mindful of what goes down any drain in the house. When in doubt, have a professional plumber take care of the problem before it gets worse. Contact All Pro Plumbing Services today.
Clogged Shower Drain FAQs
Q. Why is my shower’s water pressure low or not running?
Issues with shower pressure are often related to the cartridge in your showerhead. If a cartridge is clogged or broken, this can keep water from following where you need it. We recommend knowing your shower’s brand and replacing it with a cartridge that matches.
Q. Can I use drain cleaning chemicals in my shower or bathtub?
You can but be careful. If your bath or shower drain is clogged, give it a shot with a drain cleaning chemical, but if it doesn’t work, resist the urge to try again by pouring more drain cleaning chemicals down.
If the chemicals didn’t clear it the first time, it’s unlikely to work the second time, and you’re risking damaging your pipes and causing worse damage. Give a plumber a call to take a look because the problem may be worse than you think.
