How To Clean Shower Drain Pipe In Cumbria: Tips From Drainage Cumbria

Taking a shower in Cumbria is a wonderful experience. The county is known for its natural beauty and stunning landscapes. However, enjoying a good shower requires a properly functioning shower drain. Unfortunately, shower drains can get clogged over time due to hair, soap, and other residues. This can cause water to build up and make your shower experience unpleasant.

As a drain cleaning company in Cumbria, we receive many calls from homeowners and businesses asking for advice on how to clean shower drain pipes. Here, we provide you with some useful tips on how to keep your shower drain pipes clean and clog-free.

Understanding Your Drain

Before diving into how to clean your shower drain, it is essential to understand how your drain works. A shower drain is designed to allow water to flow out of your shower and into your drainage system. This is done through a pipe that passes through the floor and connects to your building's waste disposal system.

Over time, shower drains can become clogged due to hair, soap, and residue build-up. When the drain becomes clogged, water begins to back up and cause a pool of water in your shower. This can be an unsanitary and unhygienic situation that requires immediate attention.

Common Causes of Clogged Shower Drain Pipes

There are several common causes of clogged shower drain pipes. The most common causes are hair, soap, and residue build-up. When these substances accumulate in your shower drain pipe, they can cause blockages that prevent water from flowing freely.

Aside from the above-mentioned causes, other more serious issues can lead to blocked shower drains. These include faulty pipe installations, tree root infiltration, and broken pipes.

Methods for Cleaning Shower Drain Pipes

There are several methods that you can use to clean your shower drain pipe. These methods include using a plumber's snake, chemical drain cleaners, and natural remedies such as vinegar and baking soda.

1. Plumber's Snake

A plumber's snake is a flexible metal wire that can be used to remove clogs from your drain. This method is particularly useful for manual blockages such as hair and soap buildup. To use a plumber's snake, follow these steps:

1. First, remove the drain cover from your shower drain.
2. Insert the snake into the drain until you feel resistance.
3. Twist the snake clockwise to dislodge any blockage.
4. Once the blockage has been removed, pull the snake out of the drain.

2. Chemical Drain Cleaners

Chemical drain cleaners are an effective way to unclog your shower drain. These commercial cleaners work by dissolving the clog and flushing it away with water. However, these cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful to your health and the environment if not handled properly. Follow the instructions on the label carefully and wear protective gear such as gloves and goggles. Here are some of the steps to follow:

1. Pour the chemical cleaner down the shower drain.
2. Let it sit for a specified time period (usually 15-30 minutes).
3. Flush the drain with hot water to remove the dissolved clog.

3. Natural Remedies

If you prefer to use natural remedies, vinegar and baking soda are excellent options. These natural ingredients can be combined to create a foaming solution that can unclog your drain without harming the environment or your health. Here are the steps to follow when using this method:

1. Pour a cup of baking soda down the drain.
2. Follow it immediately with a cup of vinegar.
3. Cover the drain and let the solution sit for at least 30 minutes.
4. Flush the drain with hot water to remove the dissolved clog.

Preventing Shower Drain Clogs

Prevention is always better than cure, and this applies to shower drain clogs too. Here are some measures that you can take to prevent clogs and keep your shower drain running smoothly:

1. Use A Hair Catcher

Using a hair catcher in your shower drain is an effective way to prevent clogs caused by hair buildup. Hair catchers are cheap, easy to install, and come in different sizes and shapes.

2. Use Non-Residue Soap

Residue buildup is a common cause of shower drain clogs. To reduce the amount of residue in your shower drain, switch to non-residue soap options. These soaps do not leave any soap buildup in your drain, reducing the chances of clogs.

3. Regular Cleaning

Clean your shower drain regularly, at least once a month, to remove any buildup that may lead to clogs. You can use any of the methods we have discussed above to clean your shower drain.

4. Professional Drain Cleaning

It is advisable to seek professional drain cleaning services at least once a year. This ensures that your shower drain is cleaned thoroughly and checked for any potential problems.

Conclusion

Cleaning your shower drain is an important task that should not be ignored. If you notice any signs of a clogged shower such as a pool of water or slow draining, take immediate action. You can use the methods we have discussed above to clean your shower drain, but it is also essential to prevent clogs by practicing good hygiene and regular cleaning.

At Drainage Cumbria, we are dedicated to providing professional drain cleaning services in Cumbria and the North West of England. If you need any help with your shower drain, we are just a phone call away. Contact us at 01228 734162 or email [email protected] to schedule an appointment. Alternatively, visit our website at drainagecumbria.uk for more information about our services.