Water is supposed to go down the drain. So, finding water bubbling up suddenly when you step into your shower can make you panic. This problem be a sign of a more serious issue with your plumbing system.
Backflow should not be ignored, especially with older homes and freezing temperatures in Twin Falls. This makes it important for homeowners to hire plumbing services. You can Check it out here if you need a plumber to come to your home. Keep reading to know why water does not come up from the shower drain and what you can do about it.
It Might Be a Clog from Somewhere
In many cases, the clog might be deeper down in the main drain line or sewer line. This is especially true if you notice water coming up in the shower when you flush the toilet, run the washing machine, or use the bathroom sink. Water has nowhere else to go when the main line is blocked. Thus, it takes the path of least resistance, which can lead it right up your shower drain.
Common Causes of Drain Backups in Twin Falls
The following often cause plumbing systems to act up:
- Tree roots. Older neighborhoods with mature trees often deal with tree roots creeping into underground pipes. They find tiny cracks, squeeze in, and grow until they block the whole line.
- Grease or soap buildup. Grease from the kitchen and soap scum from showers and sinks can coat the inside of pipes and create thick blockages over time.
- Flushed items. Flushing wipes, paper towels, or hygiene products can clog the main sewer line, especially in older plumbing systems that are not built for it.
- Winter freezing. Pipes in Twin Falls are at risk of freezing and cracking in colder months. This can lead to clogs or misdirected water flow once everything starts thawing out.
How to Tell If It Is a Main Line Issue
Backflow in your shower is often the first visible clue of a bigger plumbing issue, but there are other signs to watch for. Your main sewer line may be the problem if multiple drains in your home are slow or clogged. Also, your main line might be to blame if water gurgles in the toilet when you run the sink. Hearing bubbling sounds from drains and noticing a bad smell coming from your shower or sinks can point to a main line issue.
Is It a Health Hazard?
Water backing up into your shower has come from a toilet, washing machine, or kitchen sink. It may carry bacteria or other harmful germs. You should not assume the water is clean even if looks like regular water. Make sure to clean the area thoroughly with disinfectant after the water recedes. Call a plumber right away to stop it from turning into a health issue if the problem keeps coming back.
What to Do When You Notice Water Coming Up
Do not use any more water in the house until you figure out what is going on if water starts bubbling up into your shower. This means you must not run the dishwasher, do laundry, or flush the toilet.
Next, try a plunger or a drain snake if you think the clog is close to the surface. But you might need to bring in a professional if the problem keeps coming back or affects multiple drains. Plumbers in Twin Falls are familiar with the unique plumbing challenges in the area and have the tools to check deep into your pipes, including video inspections. They can snake the drain, use hydrojetting, and repair or replace the pipe.