A backed-up shower is a surefire sign that there’s a clog or other plumbing issue in the home. If the shower or tub doesn’t drain as expected after use, it’s a good idea to figure out what is happening and what is needed to make sure it’s fixed properly. Read below to learn more about what could be causing a backup in the shower and what repairs may be necessary.
Signs of a Clogged Drain
A clogged drain is a common cause of a backed-up shower drain. When there is a clog, it can be noticed because there is trouble with the water draining in the shower after use. Other signs can include the toilet water bubbling or the smell of sewage coming from the drains.
Clogs can also cause water to back up in other parts of the home. If water appears in the shower or tub while using the washing machine or toilet, it can be a sign that there’s a clogged pipe further in the system. Any of these signs should lead to calling in a professional for fast help. Though they might not be an emergency right now, the issue will only get worse over time.
Plumbing Issues That Can Occur
Shower drain issues are more than just a troublesome problem and may be a sign that there’s something wrong with the home’s plumbing. When there is a clog somewhere in the pipes, there are a few different plumbing issues that can occur. These issues will get worse if they are not handled with professional plumbing services promptly.
Clogged Drains
Clogged drains may mean water isn’t able to go down or may just go down slowly, leading to water backing up in the shower drain. When there is a clog, it’s important to unclog the drain to get the water flowing again. Stagnant water left in the shower or sink can become hazardous quickly if it’s not handled properly.
Water Appearing in Shower
If water appears in the shower when the washing machine or toilet is used, it’s a sign that there’s a drain clog that needs to be fixed. Wastewater can be hazardous, so if it appears in the shower when the shower isn’t being used, fast repairs are needed to fix the issue, keep everyone safe, and potentially prevent sewer line repairs if the issue gets worse.
Damaged Pipes
If the clogged drain is not repaired promptly, it can cause further damage. Pressure on one side of the clog can start to build up, which can lead to a burst pipe. When this happens, it’s going to require far more extensive repairs, and the cost of repair will increase.
Solutions to Unclog Your Drains
Depending on the severity of the clog, there are options available to help clear it and get the drain working again.
Drain Cleaning
For minor clogs or those close to the surface, a drain cleaning might be needed. This involves removing the clog or breaking it down so everything can go through the pipes, clearing the way for water.
Hydro Jet Cleaning – If the drain is clogged anywhere in the pipes, hydro jet cleaning can remove it. This involves using a specialized tool to push pressurized water through the pipes to break down and remove the clog.
Pipe Repair
If the pipe is damaged because of the clog or damage further down in the pipes is causing the clog, pipe repair may be needed. The type of damaged pipe repair used will depend on the severity of the damage.
Cured-In-Place Pipe Relining – In some cases, it may be possible to reline the pipe to fix it without having to dig up and replace the pipes. A cured-in-place pipe relining is a type of sewer line repair can prevent further damage to the property.
Is water backing up into your shower? It’s likely happening because there’s a clog somewhere in the plumbing system. Steve’s Plumbing is available to help. Call us at (425) 451-2444 or contact us today online for fast help.