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Why do I have sand in my bathtub?
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I’m wondering if it’s just a clog of beach sand that keeps coming up or a bigger plumbing issue. I don’t want this to reoccur, so any information on why this happens and how to prevent it would be greatly appreciated.
Hi Danielle, you didn't mention whether you are on city water or perhaps well water. In the link below the writer suggests that what you think is sand may actually be sediment from galvanized pipes or a water heater.
Take a moment and see if there is sand in the bottom of your toilet tank, if there is is sounds like you have sediment in your pumping system, and not a city water supply problem. Another symptom will be loud noisy gurgling from your hot water heater. Is there sand in other things like your sinks, trickle in clothes washer?
Sediment can drift inside the water line that is connected to the hot water tank when it reenters the tank. That sediment gets sucked backward when you turn on the hot water. You may need to flush the hot water tank.
Danielle, you may be able to flush the hot water tank yourself if you're a bit mechanically inclined. It looks too involved for me! :)
Hi Danielle, hope this helps you out.
Sediment can drift inside the water line connected to your hot water heater when it reenters the tank. The result is sandy sediment getting sucked backward when you turn on the hot water, which is then drawn into your tub when you take a bath or shower.
You can put a cup of baking soda + a cup of vinegar. Cover for 15 minutes. Boil water and remove cover then pour down the drain. That should help get rid of a clog safely. You might have to repeat.
You likely need to get your hot water heater serviced.
It can depend on how often you use your tub. Some people have separate showers. You must turn your water on once a week. The city water pipes collect all sorts of yuck.
Maybe, upen up the trap under the bath to clear it out?
Have you contacted your water supply folks and asked them if any other customers have had this problem?
Hi Danielle, not sure if you were able to figure this out, but I always start with the path of least resistance when it comes to DIY. I would start by trying to clear a clog in the tub drain, since it's only in the tub. You could even try to snake it out if the baking soda/ vinegar doesn't do it. If the issue doesn't resolve, then I would call the city and inquire. Then maybe call a pro for the water heater. It just seems like if it were a system wide issue, either town or hot water heater, you'd have it everywhere.