Can You Unclog A Tub With Standing Water?
It’s easy to notice standing water in your shower, but not so much finding a way to get rid of it for good. That’s how it is for many homeowners, but there are a great many strategies you can take to rid your home of standing water.
At Brown Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we understand how important it is to maintain a functional and healthy plumbing system. That’s why we’re here to guide you through the process of tackling standing water in your shower, ensuring your bathroom remains a clean and comfortable space.
How Standing Water Hurts You
Standing water in your shower is more than just an inconvenience. It’s a symptom of underlying issues that can escalate into major problems if not addressed fast.
Standing water in the tub is a breeding ground for mold, mildew and bacteria. These growths can cause health issues and contribute to unpleasant odors in your bathroom. It can also attract pests such as flies and cockroaches. In the worst case, standing water could lead to water damage or total clogs which prevent your shower’s ability to drain.
Common Causes Of Standing Shower Water
Much like the problems standing water brings to your home, the potential causes are just as numerous. Several factors can contribute to standing water in your shower. Here are some examples:
- Drain clogs, which can be caused by hair, soap scum, bath liquids, small objects and other kinds of debris
- Slow-draining pipes due to an undetected pipe buildup
- An incorrect shower base installation
Identifying the root cause of your shower’s standing water is the first step in effectively addressing the issue.
Easy Solutions To Fix Standing Water
Once you’ve got a standing water issue on your hands, no one wants to let it sit. There are several suggested strategies for getting rid of your shower’s standing water.
Try A Plunger
A plunger can sometimes dislodge the clog causing standing water. Run water afterward to see if it worked, but don’t be afraid to try this several times. Make sure to use a flat-bottomed plunger for showers to create a proper seal.
Try A Drain Snake
Using a drain snake (or plumber’s snake) is a more direct approach to removing clogs. Carefully insert the snake into the drain and twist it to catch and pull out debris. This method is particularly effective for more stubborn clogs that can’t be resolved with plungers or natural solutions.
Keep in mind that most homeowners don’t know how to snake a shower drain as safely and effectively as a licensed plumber. By calling in a plumber to take care of it, you’ll minimize the risk of damage to your pipes.
Use Baking Soda And Vinegar
A natural solution of baking soda and vinegar can help break down the clog. Pour 3/4 cup of baking soda followed by a cup of vinegar down the drain, wait for an hour and then flush with hot tap water. This has a good chance of loosening the clog and allowing your water to flow more freely.
Call A Professional Plumber
DIY solutions won’t always do the trick. In fact, attempting to fix your shower’s standing water on your own can put your pipes at risk. If there’s a chance of a structural issue involved, you won’t be able to resolve it on your own.
The licensed plumbers at Brown Heating, Cooling & Plumbing are specially trained to take care of plumbing issues like this one. If you want to give your shower and pipes the best treatment possible, with the least amount of risk involved, call our team instead.
Make Use Of Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is key to preventing standing water in your shower. To help ward off future problems, try these strategies:
- Regularly clean your shower drain to prevent buildup
- Use drain protectors to keep hair and debris from entering your pipes
- Have your plumbing system inspected regularly by professionals like Brown Heating, Cooling & Plumbing
Neglecting your plumbing system is an invitation for clogs and a host of other problems. Through regular inspections and professional aid, you can stave off these issues and prevent unneeded stress.
Say Goodbye To Drain Clogs In Hueytown
Whether you tackle your standing water problem yourself or seek professional assistance, it’s important to act promptly. The help of a licensed plumber is your fastest route to a guaranteed fix.
Brown Heating, Cooling & Plumbing is here to help with all your plumbing needs, from routine maintenance to emergency repairs. Don’t let standing water dampen your home’s comfort — contact us today!
