Standing water in your shower can ruin your day. But don’t worry; you’re not alone. Many homeowners in Rockwall, TX, face this issue. In this guide, we’ll dive into anything but standing water as we explore how to unclog a shower drain effectively.

Why Do Shower Drains Clog?

  • Hair and Soap Scum: The most common culprits are hair and soap scum that build up over time.
  • Hard Water: Mineral deposits from hard water can also cause blockages.
  • Dirt and Sand: If you’ve been engaged in outdoor activities, you might wash off accumulated dirt in the shower, which can settle in the drain.
  • Plant and Tree Roots: In some cases, especially for homes with older plumbing systems, roots from nearby trees or plants can infiltrate and block the pipes.
  • Hair Products: Conditioners, hair gels, and other hair products can contribute to the buildup, especially when combined with hair.

The Health Risks of Ignoring a Clogged Shower Drain

While standing water in your shower may seem inconvenient, it can pose serious health risks. Drawing parallels to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) warnings about the dangers of floodwaters, it’s crucial to promptly address a clogged shower drain.

Contaminants and Health Risks

  • Standing water in your shower can become a breeding ground for bacteria and other harmful substances.
  • The water can become contaminated with bacteria that can lead to skin infections or gastrointestinal illnesses.
  • If you’ve used chemical drain cleaners that didn’t work, those chemicals could still be present, posing additional risks.

Protective Measures

  • Proper Gear: If you decide to tackle the clog yourself, make sure to wear appropriate protective gear, such as rubber gloves and goggles.
  • Sanitation: After handling the clog, wash your hands thoroughly and sanitize any tools you’ve used.

When to Call a Plumber

  • Persistent Issues: If DIY methods have failed and the water still stands, it’s time to call a professional plumber to avoid health risks.
  • For residents of Rockwall, TX, Intown Plumbing offers expert services to safely and effectively deal with clogged drains.

5 Ways to Unclog a Shower Drain

Baking Soda and Vinegar

  • Mix a cup of baking soda with a cup of vinegar. Pour the solution down the drain and let it sit for at least an hour. Flush with hot water to wash it away.

Using a Plunger

  • Place the plunger over the drain and apply strong suction to remove the clog. Make sure to clean the plunger before using it in the kitchen sink!

Wire Coat Hanger

  • Straighten a wire coat hanger and create a small hook at the end. Use this to fish out clumps of hair and grime blocking your drain.

Drain Snake or Auger

  • Insert the snake into the drain until you feel resistance. Turn the handle to break up the clog, and then flush with hot water.

Professional Plumber

Preventing Future Clogs

Use a Drain Cover

  • A simple drain cover can catch hair and prevent it from going down the drain.

Regular Cleaning

  • Use a natural drain cleaner made of vinegar and baking soda every few weeks to clear your drains.

Check for Hard Water

  • Consider installing a water softener to prevent mineral buildup if you have hard water.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

If you’ve already given methods like drain snakes, plungers, and the classic baking soda-vinegar mix a shot with no luck, consider reaching out for professional assistance. Intown Plumbing in Rockwall, TX, is well-equipped to offer top-notch drain cleaning services, ensuring your shower functions smoothly once again.”