Shower drains are a necessary evil. We all know that, right? They’re the unsightly pipes that snake through our bathrooms and crawl their way beneath our sinks. But what many people don’t know is that they’re also a source of water pollution. In this blog post, we will explore some of the myths about shower drains and how you can rid your home of these pollutants. We will also share some tips on how to properly maintain your shower drain so it doesn’t cause any water pollution in your home.
Shower Drain Myths
There are a lot of myths about shower drains, and many people believe some of them to be true. In this article, we will debunk six of the most common shower drain myths.
The Truth About Shower Drain Cleaning
There are many myths about shower drain cleaning, and unfortunately, many homeowners believe them. The truth is that most shower drains can be cleaned with a plunger and some soap. Follow these steps to clean your shower drain:
1. Clear the area around the drain of any objects that could get in the way, such as shampoo bottles or rugs.
2. Remove any large pieces of debris with a plunger.
3. Wet the plunger head and insert it into the drain. Swish the water around inside the drain and push any debris up against the sides of the plughole.
4. Gently suction against the sides of the plughole with your hands, pulling up anything that has been pulled down into the drain.
5. Rinse off the plunger and hose in clean water and dispose of them properly.
How to Clean a Shower Drain
If your shower drain is smelling bad, it’s likely because of build-up on the drainage system. To clean it, pour a pot of boiling water onto the drain and let it flow for about five minutes. Pour a cold water into the sink and turn on the faucet to fill up the basin. Pour the hot water from the pot down the drain until it reaches the basin. Let the bathtub drain for about an hour before using it again to help clear away any debris. If your shower drains constantly backup, you may need a new one or an installation.
Shower Drain Maintenance Tips
1. The most common shower drain maintenance mistake is not flushing the drain regularly.
2. Putting garlic down the drain will clear it.
3. A plunger can clear clogged drains.
4. Borax can be used to unclog a shower drain.
5. Baking soda can be used to de-scale a shower pan and help prevent clogs.
Myth: Shower drains clog easily
A shower drain clogs easily because of hair, soap suds, and other debris. However, a proper seal between the drain and the pipe can prevent this from happening.
Myth: Shower drains overflow
Many people believe that shower drains overflow when they are not used, but this is not the case. Shower drainage systems are designed to overflow when too much water accumulates in them. This happens when the system can no longer handle the weight of the water and it begins to flow down the drain faster than it can escape.
Myth: I need a new shower drain every few years
One of the most common myths about shower drains is that they need to be replaced every few years. In reality, most shower drains can last anywhere from five to ten years without any problems. However, if you notice any signs of wear or tear, or if your drain starts clogging up, it is definitely time to get a new one installed.
Myth: I can’t save money on my shower drain
There are a lot of myths floating around about shower drains, and unfortunately, many of them are simply untrue. Here are four of the most common shower drain myths and the truth behind them:
Myth #1: Shower drains only use a small amount of water
False. A typical shower drainage system can use up to 100 gallons of water per day. That’s enough water to fill up a bathtub several times over!
Myth #2: You can save money by not installing a shower drain
False again. Many homeowners don’t install showers because they think they don’t need one – but that’s not true at all. A properly installed shower drain can save you up to 50% on your water bill.
Myth #3: You can clean your shower drain with a regular household cleaner
False again. Most standard cleaners aren’t designed to be used on bathroom surfaces, and they could damage your drainage system in the process. For best results, use an enzyme-based cleaner or a specific drain cleaning product.
Myth: A shower drain replacement is expensive
As someone with experience replacing shower drains, I can tell you that the cost of a drain replacement is not as expensive as many people believe. In fact, the average cost to replace a shower drain is between $80 and $120. This price range includes both low-cost and high-end options, so you can find a drain replacement that fits your budget.
If you’re looking to save money on your shower drain replacement, consider opting for a DIY option. You can install a new shower drain yourself by following these instructions. However, if you’re not comfortable working with plumbing fixtures, hiring a professional may be the better option for you.
Regardless of whether you choose to hire a professional or DIY your installation, make sure to take into account the size and type of shower drainyour bathroom has. A standard American-style drain measures around 1 inch in diameter and flows at around 2 gallons per minute. If your bathtub or shower is larger or has a more powerful water flow than this standard model, you’ll need to upgrade to a custom drainage system.
Truth: Replacing a shower drain is not expensive
Replacing a shower drain is not expensive. In fact, it can cost as little as $30 if you do it yourself. Here are four truths about replacing a shower drain:
1. A typical shower drain is made of plastic and metal and can be replaced with a few simple tools.
2. The most common type of shower drain is the single-hole drain, which is typically installed in the center of the wall above the bathtub or sink. You can replace a single-hole drain with a dual-hole or even a multiple-hole drain if desired.
3. Shower drains are typically fitted with flexible connectors that come off easily when you want to replace the drain. Simply remove the old connector and screw in the new one.
4. Replacing a shower drain is not difficult, but it does require some knowledge about how drains work and some simple tools. If you’re looking to replace your own shower drain, be sure to read our guide first to get started: How to Replace a Shower Drain
Conclusion
Whether you’re a first-time home buyer or an experienced homeowner, it’s important to be aware of some common myths about shower drains. While most of these myths are untrue, they can still lead to frustrating problems and costly repairs. Here are four of the most common shower drain myths and the truths that dispel them: 1) A clogged drain is always caused by dirty water. Truth: Most clogs in drains are actually caused by larger objects (like soap scum or hair). Dirty water won’t cause a clog; it will just overflow when the load from the bigger object exceeds the drainage capacity of your sink or tub drainage system. 2) The best way to unclog a drain is with hot water and a plunger. Truth: If you’ve tried hot water and a plunger and the problem isn’t solved, there may be something blocking your drain called an obstruction. Obstruction will usually require professional help to remove, so if this is something you’re interested in doing yourself try calling an expert first – they’ll have more tools and knowledge to get the job done right. 3) You can clean a shower head with vinegar and baking soda. Truth: Vinegar