As a homeowner, few sights are as dread-inducing as a shower floor covered in dirty water that’s come back up the drain. On top of posing significant health risks by potentially exposing your family to harmful bacteria and contaminants, shower backups are a definite sign that something has gone wrong within your plumbing system.
Since 1984, Quality Plumbing of Gainesville Inc. has provided the highest quality plumbing services to homeowners and businesses throughout the greater North Central Florida area. Below, our trusted Gainesville plumbers outline the most common causes of shower backups and what to do when they occur.
Is water coming up your shower drain? Contact our local plumbing company today to schedule service!
Common Causes Of Shower Backups
Clogged Drain Line
One of the most common causes of shower backups is a clogged drain line. Over time, clogs can form in your main drain line from buildups of hair, soap scum, grease, and other debris, obstructing water flow and causing it to back up into your tub. While minor clogs may be cleared with some plunging or snaking, deeper obstructions often require the attention of an experienced plumber. Here at Quality Plumbing of Gainesville Inc., we offer professional drain cleaning services designed to eliminate tough clogs!
Blocked Vent Pipes
Another possible cause for a shower backup is a blocked vent pipe. Your plumbing system’s vent pipe exists to allow air into your drain so wastewater continues to flow smoothly. When that vent becomes obstructed by leaves, animals, or debris, it can affect water flow and cause backups. Signs of a blocked pipe include slower drains, gurgling sounds, and consistent backups even when you don’t put much water down the drain.
Main Sewer Line Issues
A clog or damage in your main sewer line can cause water to back up into the lowest-point fixture in your home, often the shower or bathtub. Sewer line issues are a serious problem since all of your home’s plumbing fixtures connect to the main sewer line. If your shower backs up whenever you run the washing machine, that’s a telltale sign that there’s a problem with your sewer line. Whether your sewer line is clogged or damaged, our trusted plumbers can help restore proper water flow with professional drain cleaning or sewer line replacement services!
Old Or Damaged Pipes
Whether it’s from corrosion, shifting soil, intrusive tree roots, or simply old age — your plumbing system’s pipes will wear down and lose their integrity over time. Having old or damaged pipes often means slower drainage, frequent clogs, and, of course, backups. In older neighborhoods, it’s not uncommon for Gainesville homeowners to still have plumbing that’s been in place for decades. If you suspect old or damaged pipes are the culprit behind your shower backing up, call our plumbing company for reliable replacements or repairs.
What To Do When Your Shower Backs Up
If your shower drain starts backing up, there are a few DIY fixes you can try before reaching out to a professional. As soon as you notice water pooling or draining slowly in your shower or tub, try taking the following steps:
- Remove any visible hair or debris in your drain
- Try using a plunger to loosen minor clogs
- Carefully pour hot water down the drain to help flush blockages (avoid using harsh chemical drain cleaners as they can damage old pipes)
- If backups keep happening, call the trusted team at Quality Plumbing of Gainesville Inc. for professional bathtub and shower plumbing services!
Tips For Preventing Shower Backups
Once the issue is resolved, you can implement a few preventive measures to reduce the likelihood of a similar problem occurring again.
- Buy a hair catcher for your shower’s drain
- Regularly flush the drain with boiling water to clear any buildup
- Schedule regular professional drain cleaning services
- Watch for early warning signs like slow draining and bubbling sounds
Schedule Plumbing Services In Gainesville, FL!
Whether your shower backup is being caused by a clog, blocked vent, sewer line issues, or damaged piping, our Gainesville plumbing specialists have the tools and experience to get your system flowing smoothly! Contact us today to schedule fast, reliable plumbing service from the most dependable team in town!