A smelly shower drain is a nightmare to fix unless you know what to look for. Luckily, there are only a few places to check, such as the pipes and drains. These two places are easy to get to and clean with the right tools. Don’t forget your natural cleaning solutions and drain snakes, if needed, to fix the problem fast.
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Keep reading to find out where smells are lurking in your shower drain and how to fix the problem.
Where is the Smell Coming From?
Is there a funny scent coming from your shower? Smells in the shower are not fun to deal with, but doing so right away will benefit your shower and your nose. The four most common areas for smells to lurk are:
- Pipes
- P-traps
- Drains
- Biofilm buildup
Unfortunately, the best way to find where the smell is coming from is using your nose. Each smell is different and may be able to help determine where it is coming from. If you don’t have a sensitive nose, you may be able to smell each of these common areas for some clues instead.
Getting Rid of Biofilm Buildup
Biolfilm is a natural buildup of bacteria and waste that tends to leave a bad stench in the shower. This buildup has a signature smell: musty, like mold and mildew. These smells are sure to ruin anyone’s day. In some cases, the buildup will look and feel like slime. Although it may seem harmless, biofilm may cause a number of health problems if not cleaned right away. If you notice biofilm lurking in nooks and crannies do not wait to take care of it.
Here are some tips on how to clean biofilm in your shower:
- Use a brush-like tool to break the film up so that the cleaning solution will disinfect the film.
- Wipe away as much as possible.
- Spray the area with a surface spray and scrub again.
These tips should help you get rid of biofilm in your shower and keep it away. It is important to always keep a lookout for biofilm – the less there is, the easier it will be to clean.
Clogs in the Drain
Clogs in the shower drain are very common because there are so many factors that can contribute to its occurrence. Soap residue, hair and dirt are major factors that may contribute to a messy and smelly clog. Fixing a clog is relatively easy and inexpensive if it is located near the drain.
To unclog a shower drain you are going to need a plastic drain snake and some handy cleaning items that you probably have sitting underneath your sink. Use the drain snake to reach down the drain as far as possible. Continue to reinsert the drain snake until the clog loosens or is completely removed. Finish clearing the drain by pouring boiling water down. You can also use baking soda and vinegar to break up the clog as well. If there is still a smell, call your local plumber in Duncanville, TX for bathroom plumbing services.
Install a Hair Catcher
Using a hair catcher is perfect for preventing annoying hair clogs. The hair catcher will catch all the loose hair and other materials from entering the drain of your shower. This handy device will keep drain clogs out of your shower and out of your life.
Over time hair clogs will develop an unpleasant smell that is sure to cause anyone to go into a cleaning frenzy. Hair catchers are cost-effective and will save you money on cleaning supplies and plumbing service.
How to Clean a P-Trap
P-traps are responsible for keeping the smell of sewer out of your shower. However, if you are smelling a garbage-like smell then it could be the p-trap. The p-trap is typically in the shape of a “U” and sits below your shower drain. These p-traps are connected to your toilet and sinks.
To fix a smelly p-trap, try running the water in your shower for a couple minutes. This should fill the p-trap with enough water to keep any smells at bay. However, if this does not fix your situation a plumber will need to be contacted for plumbing installation and replacement services.
Fixing Leaky Pipes
Leaky drainage pipes may also be the cause of a smell in your shower. The drainage pipes are responsible for keeping sewer gases at bay. If there is a leak, these smells will disperse. The two most common reasons why your pipes leak are loose pipe connections and pipe damage such as corrosion.
Fixing your leaky pipe is not always easy depending where the leak is coming from. The material of the pipes is another factor that could determine the level of complexity. In this case it is better to call a professional plumber for the job. They will have the right tools to reach clogs and find any leaks. For all of these issues be sure to call your local plumber for drain and sewer services.
Plumber Duncanville TX
Searching for a “plumber near me”? Look no further because Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling and Heating is here to save the day. Got a smelly shower? We can handle it! We are dedicated to providing quality customer service and excellent plumbing work. If you wanted to explore more about why your shower drain smells then read this guide.
Our team of trained and experienced plumbers are ready to fix any problem you may have. From emergency services to replacements, we’ve got you covered. Our team has been in the industry for decades, so trust us to get it right the first time.
Looking for a plumber in Duncanville TX? Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling and Heating is the best plumber near you. Don’t hesitate to give us a call at 469-518-4211 or contact us online.
Author Bio:
Sherrie Johnson-Hartsock
Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling & Heating is now owned and operated by Sherrie Johnson-Hartsock, with his grandson, Daniel Johnson, a third-generation plumber who is also the Service Manager.