Does a Shower Drain Need a Trap?

If you are in need of a trustworthy and skilled plumber to address your plumbing needs, then call Babe Plumbing at (507) 267-3622 to schedule a service.

The P-trap has the important job of preventing sewer gasses from making their way into your bathroom. Although you can't really see the shower trap, it is a super important part of your plumbing system.

Does a shower drain need a trap? In short, yes, every shower drain in the United States must have a trap or P-trap. 

Here is everything that you need to know about your shower drain's P-trap and when you should schedule drain cleaning services in Mankato.

How Does the P-Trap Work in Your Shower Drain? 

The P-trap sits far below your shower drain, so you can't see it. Plumbers also call it a U-trap or S-trap. 

When the water from your showers flows out of the shower head and into your shower, it then goes into the drain and through the P-trap. The P-trap is a small section of the drain pipe that always has a small amount of water in it. This creates a seal when working properly. 

When water from your shower faucet enters the trap, it pushes the old water through and sends it to the other side of the P-trap. Rather than being a straight pipe, the shower trap has a unique curved shape that prevents unpleasant sewer gases from coming up into your shower. That way, you can have a more enjoyable and hygienic shower experience. 

Why Does Your Shower Need a Trap?

So you know how shower traps are beneficial, but why do showers need them?

Lots of nasty things live in your drain lines, like sewer gasses, bugs, drain flies, and more. Thanks to their unique shape, P-traps basically trap these gasses and gross elements and prevent them from coming up into your shower. 

The Different Parts of Your Shower Drain's P-Trap

Although they look like the curved pipes under your sink, they are quite different in that they have a greater curve.

Your shower's P-trap consists of three main parts: the inlet, water barrier, and outlet.

The inlet is the part of the P-trap that the water enters through. In your shower, this is the drain hole that you see on the floor.

Meanwhile, the water barrier sits in the downward bend of the P-trap, creating the seal that keeps unwanted gasses and bugs out of your shower. This is the center part of the P-trap. 

The final part is the outlet. This is where the water exits the pipe system and enters the sewer lines, where it then makes its way to the main sewer lines. 

Rules and Regulations to Know Regarding Shower Traps

As we previously mentioned, it is a law in the United States that every shower has a P-trap. In addition to this rule, P-traps must be no more than 5 feet away from the shower drain. Ideally, it should be as close to your shower inlet as possible. 

The further away the P-trap is from your shower drain, the easier it is for foul smells and drain bugs to make their way into your shower.

Also, a P-trap for a shower must be at least 2 inches in diameter. But P-traps for other plumbing areas have different regulations. For example, bathroom sinks must have P-traps with a 1 1/4-inch diameter, while kitchen sinks must have a 1 1/2-inch diameter.

Common Problems You Might Experience with Shower Traps

Does a shower drain need a trap? Yes, and it's important for you to also know about the common problems you could experience with it. 

For example, one of the most common problems with shower traps is odors. If your P-trap is too far from the shower drain, you are likely going to experience all sorts of musty odors. 

Another problem you could experience with our shower's drain traps is dry or cracked pipes. If your home has damaged vent pipes, it can dry out the water barrier in the P-trap, making it dry out and crack. Fortunately, you can try to fix this by pouring water down the drain at least once a month, ensuring that the trap has a clean supply of water. 

How You Can Clean Your Shower's P-Trap

Did you know that you can easily clean your shower's P-trap without needing expensive plumbing tools? 

• Baking soda and white vinegar: Pour 1/3 cup of baking soda down your shower drain, followed by 1/3 cup of vinegar. When you hear this mixture fizzing in your pipes, it means that it's breaking down all the gunk in your pipe. After waiting for 30 minutes, pour hot water down the drain to clear it. 
• Store-bought drain cleaner: When looking for a drain cleaner, make sure that you find one that can work with all types of pipes; some contain harsh chemicals that can actually damage your plumbing system. Follow the directions on the container to clean your pipes. 
• The cleanout (if you have it): The cleanout allows you to access the P-trap in your shower so you can clear away any clogs or issues. But it's important to note that not all shower drains have this. 
• Professional help: The best way to handle any kind of drain cleaning or plumbing clog is to just let the professionals do it for you. 

Call Babe Plumbing When You Need Drain and Plumbing Services

From the P-trap to the drain cover, your plumbing system has a lot of different parts that work together for your home. At Babe Plumbing, we are experts in all things plumbing, and so we know what to do if you have a malfunctioning P-trap or stubborn clog. 

Does a shower drain need a trap? Yes, and we can help you make sure that it does its job. 

If your drain makes a gurgling sound or you have another plumbing issue, contact Babe Plumbing by calling (507) 267-3622 to schedule a service.

Author Bio:

Jeff Jordan and Anne Jordan

The wizards at Babe Plumbing. With synchronized finesse, they flawlessly orchestrate service excellence, transforming appointment chaos into a harmonious symphony of plumbing solutions, leaving customers impressed and ever-grateful for their unrivaled coordination.