Why do I have sand in my bathtub?

Danielle Segev
by Danielle Segev
+14
Answered

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.

why do i have sand in my bathtub
  11 answers
  • Janice Janice on Jan 07, 2023

    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.


  • Redcatcec Redcatcec on Jan 08, 2023

    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 Segev Danielle Segev on Jan 08, 2023

      Thank you for replying Ann. Do you know if flushing the hot water tank is something I can do myself?

  • Janice Janice on Jan 08, 2023

    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! :)



  • Deb K Deb K on Jan 08, 2023

    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.



  • Kathy Gunter Law Kathy Gunter Law on Jan 09, 2023

    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.

  • Jeremy Hoffpauir Jeremy Hoffpauir on Jan 09, 2023

    You likely need to get your hot water heater serviced.

  • Dee Dee on Jan 10, 2023

    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.

  • Betsy Betsy on Jan 10, 2023

    Hi Danielle: You may have a broken pipe. I'd call a plumber who can use a camera to check it out for you. And, maybe your insurance will take care of it - hopefully!


    Good luck

  • Johnavallance82 Johnavallance82 on Jan 13, 2023

    Maybe, upen up the trap under the bath to clear it out?

  • Mogie Mogie on Feb 02, 2023

    Have you contacted your water supply folks and asked them if any other customers have had this problem?