It is a good idea to link the drainage systems and connect the shower drain with the toilet drain. But how to go about it?
To begin with, it is best to check the building codes and talk to local authorities about any rules involving waste pipe placements. It is always ideal to know everything about the process before actual implementation.
I will now be discussing the process, so read on!
Why Should One Connect Shower Drain To Toilet Drains
There are a number of benefits of connecting both the drains but please remember not to have a common waste arm. Instead, have separate pipes that carry waste and connect them to a single vent.
This is a very practical idea as otherwise, you will have to connect every bathroom appliance to the central sewage outlet. The costs would go up significantly, but this can easily be avoided. All you need to do is hire a plumber and connect both the drains to save labor time and get the work done within a few hours.
Also, the pipe network can be very crowded, and you may not want to add to the complications. But if you connect the toilet drain and shower drain, then the planning time can be reduced.
The Process
First off, you will need a pipe saw, PVC caps, PVC drain pipes, PVC closet bends, PVC connectors, adhesive, and a shower S-trap for the job. Any floor or wall panel that keeps the pipe system hidden needs to be removed.
Once that is done, you can install the common vent. The shower trap and its necessary piping have to be at a higher point than the toilet trap. This would prevent wastewater from backing up into the shower pipe.
The pipes should be laid in between the vent and shower trap with a slight gradient before you test the water flow. Then, allow the adhesive to cure and tighten the pipes before testing them. Also, ensure that there are no leaks in the vents and pipelines.
Once you are sure there are no issues, the wall or floor panel can be put back in place.
Final words
While connecting shower drain to toilet drain does not sound complicated, please be very careful with the job, as you would not want any leaks or standing water in the drain pipes. I often use a plumbing snake to clear any blockage or stagnant water once in a while.
Also, in case you hear sounds from the drain pipes or get a bad smell, call for professional services to check the line. If you stay aware and take the necessary steps immediately, there should be no further problems.
That said, I’ll call the curtains for the day. Until next time, take care and stay safe!