The type of drain used in a shower depends on how the shower is used. A single shower stall will have a different drain than the type used in a combination shower and tub. Understanding the different types will make your choice easier and assist you in cleaning your shower drain when it becomes clogged.
Difference Between Shower and Tub Drains
Video of the Day
One main type of drain is used in single stall showers. This type of drain does not lock closed to hold back water like the drains used in combination showers and tubs. This is because a shower stall is not intended to hold water.
Video of the Day
Identifying Factors
Drains designed specifically for shower stalls are typically flush with the bottom of the shower floor and look like circular metal screens. The holes in a shower stall drain are large enough to allow small debris like blades of grass and soil to pass through, but keep toys and bars of soap from entering the plumbing.
Combination Drains
Drains that are used primarily for combination tubs and showers include lift-and-turn, plunger, pop-up, roller ball and foot lock drains. Some of these drains are manipulated at the drain to hold water in the tub, while others are manipulated by levers near the water knobs.
Grate Drains
In community showers, large grates are often used as shower drains. The holes on these grates are larger, allowing larger debris to pass through. Often, one grate-style shower drain is placed to serve two adjacent shower stalls. Grate drains may also be used in tile shower stalls in homes.
Cleaning
Keeping a shower drain clean will depend on the type you have. Follow the manufacturer's directions to properly take apart and clean the drain, and clean it according to a schedule to prevent clogs. Clean hair from drains after each bath or shower.