A shower drain is one of the most important components of your shower. There are several types of drains available, and choosing the right one is critical. A poor drain assembly can lead to mold and mildew under your shower floor. Luckily, there are a number of easy fixes to ensure the proper function of your drain.

First, install a drain with a trap. The trap is a u-shaped bend in the pipe that traps water. This helps prevent sewer gasses from escaping the drain. It also has a removable basket that makes it easy to clean out debris. You can also install a vent pipe above the drain to supply air to it.

After purchasing the drain, you should install it. To do this, first remove the old one and install the new one. After that, apply silicone caulk around the top flange. Next, insert the lower part of the drain pipe into the drainpipe and place a rubber sealing gasket or a cardboard friction washer over the male threads. Next, screw the parts together. You should wait a day or two before taking a shower to make sure that the silicone oozes out from the drainpipe. Once the drain pipe is securely in place, you can install a metal grate on top.

If you cannot reach the clog by using a drain snake, you can also use boiling water. While this will damage the PVC pipes, it might clear up the clog. In some cases, you can even use a wire coat hanger. You should also use a flashlight to see the clog. Finally, you can use vinegar or baking soda to flush the drain.

Another option is a linear drain. This type of drain is very long and narrow, which gives it a nice aesthetic appeal. They can be located in the middle of the floor, but are most often placed along a wall of the shower. Because of this, the floor slopes gently towards the drain. However, this drain is not suitable for small showers.

If you notice that the water does not drain from the shower, it's likely that the drain is clogged with soap scum and bacteria. In addition, you may also notice a foul odor in the drain. This is caused by bacteria and mold growing in the pipes. In this case, a professional plumber can help you.

The process of replacing the shower drain is not as difficult as it may seem. However, it is important to be ready for any complications that may arise during the process. Remember that every project is unique, so take your time and be prepared for anything. Generally, it should take only a few hours and requires little skill.

When installing a shower drain, you should first determine its size. The standard size for a shower drain is 2 inches. However, a bathtub drain may be 1.5 inches. The difference between these two sizes will affect the amount of water that the drain can handle. The proper size is important because a small drain pipe can lead to flooding and overflowing in your shower room. Also, if it is clogged for long periods of time, it can damage your flooring and subflooring.