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Clogged Shower Drains: Common Causes and Their Remedies

Solyman Najimi | 2023-04-17 19:38:01 -0400

A clogged shower drain can be a nuisance, causing water to pool at your feet and making shower time less enjoyable. Not only can it be inconvenient, but it can also lead to more significant issues like mold growth and damage to your plumbing system.

Today, we will explore the causes of a clogged shower drain and share tips and tricks to avoid this common household problem:

Causes of a Clogged Shower Drain

There are several reasons why your shower drain may become clogged. Some common causes include:

1. Hair

Hair is the most common culprit for a clogged shower drain. As you wash and condition your hair, strands can become loose and fall into the gutter. Over time, these strands can build up and create a blockage.

2. Soap Scum

Soap and body wash can leave behind a residue that clings to the insides of your pipes. This buildup, known as soap scum, can eventually cause a blockage in your shower drain.

3. Dirt and Debris

Dirt, dead skin cells, and other debris can accumulate in your shower drain, causing a clog.

4. Mineral Buildup

Hard water contains minerals like calcium and magnesium that can build up in your pipes over time, leading to a clogged shower drain.

Tips and Tricks to Avoid a Clogged Shower Drain

There are many ways to avoid a clogged shower drain, and here are some of them:

1. Use a Drain Cover

A simple and effective way to prevent hair and debris from entering your shower drain is to use a drain cover or hair catcher. These devices sit over your drain and catch hair and other particles before they can enter your pipes. Be sure to clean the drain cover regularly to prevent buildup.

2. Brush Your Hair before Showering

By brushing your hair before showering, you can remove loose strands and minimize the amount of hair that ends up in your drain.

3. Limit the Use of Oil-Based Products

Oil-based soaps, shampoos, and conditioners can contribute to soap scum buildup in your pipes. Opt for water-based products instead, which are less likely to cause blockages.

4. Regularly Clean Your Shower Drain

At least once a month, remove the drain cover and use a drain snake or a flexible brush to remove any buildup from the drain.

5. Use a Natural Drain Cleaner

To help break down soap scum and other debris, pour a mixture of one cup of baking soda and one cup of vinegar down your drain. Allow the mixture to sit for at least 30 minutes before flushing with hot water. This can help to keep your pipes clean and prevent clogs.

6. Install a Water Softener

If you have hard water, installing a water softener can help to reduce mineral buildup in your pipes, resulting in the prevention of clogged shower drains.

7. Schedule Regular Plumbing Maintenance

Finally, having a professional plumber inspect and clean your pipes regularly can help to detect and address potential issues before they become significant problems.

Conclusion

A clogged shower drain can be a frustrating problem to deal with, but with proper care and maintenance, it can be easily avoided. By implementing these tips and tricks, you can keep your shower drain flowing smoothly and avoid the inconvenience and potential damage caused by a clogged drain. So, don't wait around. Implement today and save yourself a world of headaches!

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