How to Know if Your Tub Drain Is Threaded or a Drop-in? Bathrooms aren't typically the biggest rooms in the house, and the logistics of getting a large heavy object in and out of the door can be a little complicated. MATERIALS AND TOOLS Available on Amazon – Rubber gloves – Screwdriver – Wrench – Drain key or smart dumbbell (if removing the entire drain, including the flange) – Blow dryer (optional) – Vinegar and baking soda, or mild cleanser (optional). You should now know how to remove a bathtub drain and drain flanges with ease. © Copyright 2020 Hearst Communications, Inc. Once the flange is carefully threaded into the first few threads of the drain elbow, use the Smart Dumbell to hand-tighten the flange into the drain elbow until tight. Somehow, a lever placed well above the bottom of the tub controls whether the water stays in the tub when itâs wanted, and then allows it to drain when bath time is over.. You can insert a plastic assembly down into the overflow pipe, or if you are using a regular type of drain plug for your bathtub, you can screw on a solid overflow face plate over the drain tube hole. Clean the drain opening with a sponge and either a bathroom cleaner or a 50/50 blend of vinegar and baking soda. Tip: If the flange is stuck, use a hair dryer to heat it up and loosen the putty, then try again. The removal process isn’t particularly difficult or time-consuming, taking anywhere from a few minutes to a couple of hours from start to finish, depending on the type of drain you’re dealing with. Snake the Drain to Clear Clogs. How do you remove a tub drain ⦠How to Remove an Old Lever Style Bath Tub Drain Stopper. Cut a notch 1/4 in. Tub drain stoppers are difficult pieces to remove and WD-40 won't help ease open any screws. Dry the bathtub before you begin. Then use your wrench to tighten, by one quarter of a turn. After all, your bathtub is put to the test every day as you and the other members of your household bathe, forcing all sorts of body care products—and copious amounts of human hair—through the drain and into the pipes beyond. Apply plumberâs putty around the base of the new drain and screw it in using ⦠Dale Yalanovsky has been writing professionally since 1978. Itâs paid for so why move. The stopper must be adjusted to the correct height in order for the bathtub to drain correctly. How to Replace a Faucet on a Claw Foot Tub, How to Disconnect a Moen Pop-up Tub Drain Stopper, Family Handyman: How to Convert Bathtub Drain Lever to a Lift-and-Turn Drain, Hammer Zone: Replacing A Tub Drain and Overflow Tube, How to Remove the Pop Up on a Pedestal Sink. My bathtub won't drain due to a stuck lever type drain stopper. If the water still drains too slowly, move on to a stronger drain cleaner (one that specifies that it’s suitable for tubs) or turn to a tried-and-true DIY drain cleaner that uses materials you already have on hand. Before you begin, check the drain for excessive rust, mildew, or decay, which may indicate a larger problem that may require the services of a professional. Cleaning that bath tub drain does look a little icky. Over time, this setup would corrode, not seal correctly and leak. Our bath tub drain has never been cleaned. Insert a drain key into the bathtub drain basket. 3. Install the new drain. With this type of tub drain, the stopper is actually inside the pipe, not at the drain opening. Yalanovsky also writes a bimonthly column that provides home improvement advice. It drains so sloooooow now that I know how to do it itâll be draining like crazy. Take Out the Tub. Even if your tub doesnât have a slow draining problem, itâs good practice to clean out the tub drain once a year or so. If the drain looks to be in good shape, it’s probably fine to proceed. Removing this clip will allow you to detach the cover plate from the rod, giving you more room to maneuver the rod and pull up on the plunger. With the stopper in the open position, simply grasp the plug by hand and pull upwards with a wiggling motion to remove it from the drain opening. Make sure the drive screw is situated at the top and ⦠There are a couple of options to replace the bathtub stopper assembly with. Cut Through Drywall. The spring will pop out of the overflow tube as you pull it up, but the stopper, which is a cylindrical piece of brass or bronze, may hang up at the entrance to the pipe. Repeat as necessary until the tub empties at a reasonable rate, then proceed to reinstall or replace the part(s) you’ve removed. It goes from a tub drain at 90 degrees angle, thus, if you snake through the tub drain you can easily damage the pipe. If you have no plans to install a new bathtub in the old oneâs place, youâll need to terminate the ⦠Depending on what type of drain stopper you have, the lower linkage may have either a spring or a bronze stopper on the end. Before you disassemble your tub drain, it’s important to note its condition. We have been in the same old house for 45 years. Photo: Zillow Digs home in Los Angeles, CA. Once the drain basket is fully exposed, use a mild cleanser or a mixture of one part vinegar and one part baking soda to wash it off. I've tried lubricant, hot vinegar and muscle. Step 6 If needed, the stopper can be adjusted by either tightening or loosening the adjustable linkage that connects the trip lever to the stopper. If you plan to reuse the existing drain stopper and drain basket, clean those pieces as well. Just unscrew and remove the old lift and turn assembly and or linkage pop-up drain. Check the drain's instructions ⦠Do this carefully, so as not to squeeze the gasket underneath the tub out of place. To remove your existing bathtub youâll first want to remove the tub surround or the tile around the bathtub. If your tub has a trip lever, you may be able to simply lift the ⦠Remove the screws with a regular-blade screwdriver. Note: if you struggle and the drain won't turn move up to a wrench of pair of channel locks like I did. Keep your pipes clean, and your floors dry by sticking to these five simple steps. It also makes it harder to install new nuts or pipes into the bath tub. Insert the plunger and screw in the drain basket for a trip lever drain. Also clean the plug or stopper if you’re planning to reinsert it rather than replace it. Removing a trip lever tub drain stopper how to remove a bathtub drain stopper how to remove a drain from tub 13 replacing tub drain no crossbars remove a bathtub drain crosspiece How To Remove A Bathtub Drain StopperHow To Remove A Bathtub Drain Stopper6 Easy S To Remove A Bathtub DrainHow To Convert Bathtub⦠Read More » How to remove a bathtub drain the clean 5 types of tub drain stoppers sticky trip lever bathtub drain stopper clean 5 types of tub drain stoppers How To Convert Bathtub Drain Lever A Lift And TurnHow To Remove A Bathtub Drain StopperHow To Convert Bathtub Drain Lever A Lift And TurnHow To Remove A⦠Read More » So dry the tub with a towel first to give your footing a solid grip before you climb inside. One side is bigger than the other so it fits several sizes. Not being terribly skilled at plumbing I am now unsure of how to remove this tub drain. Bathtub drain assemblies are mysterious things. Open the stopper. Have taken off overflow to try to remove the mechanism. If the stopper ⦠Remove ⦠This photo about: Bathtub Drain Stopper Tips Replacing, entitled as Plumbing Remove Old Toe Touch Bathtub Drain Stopper With No Inside Bathtub Drain Stopper Bathtub Drain Stopper Tips Replacing - also describes and labeled as: Bathtub Drain Stopper Leaks,Bathtub Drain Stopper Repair,Bathtub Drain Stopper Replacement,Bathtub Drain Stopper Stuck,Bathtub Drain Stopper Types, with ⦠Open the Stopper. Locate the two screws on the faceplate. Instructions for removing both types appear below. When that happens, you’ll probably need to remove the drain for inspection, followed by either a careful cleaning or a complete replacement. For decades, the standard lever-style bathtub drain stopper was made of metal pieces and a metal spring. If you're trying to clean your bathtub drain of clogged hair and your drain is covered by a tub drain stopper, you're probably getting frustrated. In more modern times, plastics have replaced this tried and true system. The caulk around a bathtub looks pretty nasty when it begins to peel away. In most cases, the overflow face plate can be removed from outside of the tub. Fill the tub again with about an inch of water, and watch it drain. When the tub again drains properly, reinstall the cleaned drain parts or replace them with new ones. Step 7- Installing the New Piping. Unfortunately the spokes of the drain broke and the drain flange cracked. The most important thing to remember is that a drain wrench is an important tool, so itâs worth picking one up. Just find your drain style, and follow the step-by-step to remove it yourself. They will be to the left and right sides of the drain lever. Once the entire tub is exposed, youâll probably find some nails or screws securing the tub to the wall. To remove the old putty, you can use thinner, or you can scrape it carefully with a utility knife. This proactive strategy will prevent soap scum and hair from accumulating. Once the drain has been disassembled, use a mild cleanser or a mixture of one part vinegar and one part baking soda to wash it off. To begin, remove the tubâs drain cover or drain plug. While bathtub drains vary by type, they can be sorted into two broad categories: simple drains (including foot lock, roller ball, and lift-and-turn types) and drains with a trip lever (such as pop-up and plunger drains). The new plastic types will retrofit directly into the original space, and you will never have to worry about corrosion or flakes of chrome ending up in your bathtub. If you’re removing the entire drain apparatus, including the basket (also known as the flange), insert your drain key or smart dumbbell into the opening. Try spraying some liquid wrench or WD-40 down the overflow drain pipe where to plunger sits. Now, fill the tub with approximately one inch of water and watch it drain. Although a number of DIY plumbing projects fall outside of most homeowners’ comfort zones, removing a tub drain is a relatively accessible task. Plumbers have specialized tools to remove the drain stopper, but if you want to do it yourself, there's a makeshift way [source: Vandervort]. For decades, the standard lever-style bathtub drain stopper was made of metal pieces and a metal spring. You must be skilled enough to remove the overflow plate, and it has been a bit more difficult for me than with the shower drainâs grate. Remove Soap Scum or Hair from Drain Use a small scrub brush to remove soap scum or hair inside the drain opening. He has been published in "Woman's Day," "New Home Journal" and on many do-it-yourself websites. It won't move. It’s unfortunate but true: Over time tub drains clog and sometimes even corrode. Disclosure: BobVila.com participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for publishers to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Turn it counterclockwise and continue turning until the drain flange is released, then remove the flange while it’s still attached to the drain key. Rotate the key counter clockwise with a screw driver through the body of the key. You agree that BobVila.com may process your data in the manner described by our Privacy Policy. Twisting a Lift-and-Turn or Push-Pull Stopper Check for a knob on the drain stopper. Remove the clip that holds the overflow cover plate to the plunger rod. Remove Soap Scum or Hair from Stopper He specializes in do-it-yourself projects, household and auto maintenance and property management. The best rule of thumb when you’re tackling any new plumbing job is to proceed with an abundance of caution and remember that if complications arise, a professional plumber is just a quick phone call away. Look under the tub and attach the tee to the drain and the overflow pipe using a wrench. MATERIALS AND TOOLS Available on Amazon – Rubber gloves – Screwdriver – Wrench – Vinegar – Baking soda – Mild cleanser (optional) – Blow dryer (optional) – Drain key or smart dumbbell (if you’re moving the entire drain, including the flange). If youâre removing the entire drain apparatus, including the basket (also known as the flange), insert your drain key or smart dumbbell into the opening. Pull them out and lay them off to the side. Even the chrome overflow face-plate was prone to peeling after awhile. Also clean the plug or stopper if you’re planning to reinsert it rather than replace it. wide and deep in the old stopper body with a mini hacksaw. Otherwise, if the drain is in good shape, pull on a pair of rubber gloves and continue on your mission. Insert a screwdriver through the holes in the sides of the key and use it as a lever to turn the flange counterclockwise. Some of the old seal may remain, so remove any residue with a plastic putty knife. If you choose to remove the entire drain apparatus, including the flange, use a drain key or smart dumbbell as described in Steps 3 and 4 above. The day may come when your drain ceases to function. DIY tool for removing and/or installing bathtub drain using needlenose pliers and adjustable pliers. Keep turning until the flange comes loose and you can remove it. The tub, however, becomes slippery when wet. No need to attempt to unscrew the old drain and risk possible damage to the tub or drain assembly. one part vinegar and one part baking soda, The Best Winter Camping Destinations in America. Excessive amounts of rust, mildew, or decay may indicate a larger problem, in which case professional assistance may be needed. Insert the Drain Key into the drain. When a tub wonât hold water, the two potential causes are easily repaired. If you're using a drain key, insert it in the opening of the old drain. I attempted to use my tub drain removal wrench to remove a bath tub drain. You may have to grab the top of the stopper to pull it completely clear of the overflow pipe. Get free, no-commitment estimates from licensed plumbers near you. Now that you can see it, it's time to get rid of the drywall: Cut the drywall into ⦠Without doing this, you wonât be able to pull the old tub out or install the new tub. Copyright © 2021 Acton Media Inc. All rights reserved. But for larger tubs or hot tubs, you may need to crawl inside of the tub to effectively remove the plate. If the tub still drains slowly, try your luck with a stronger, tub-specific commercial drain cleaner or a homemade cleaner and repeat the drain test. Yet, as with all things DIY, a few simple instructions will help the task go more smoothly. Hold the large hex nut on the body of the tool using one hand. Once the drain flange has been removed, be sure to clear out any old putty residue from the base of the opening before replacing the flange or installing a new one. Check progress frequently to ensure you don't cut into the tub. The old tub drain stopper body can also be cut out with a reciprocating saw and metal blade, but be very careful because itâs easy to cut into and damage the bathtub. One of the biggest challenges to installing your own tub is maneuvering your old tub out and your new tub in. Thank you very much for the video. I would never have expected it to be so easy. Now, fill the tub with an inch or so of water and watch it drain. Grasp the lever with your hand and slowly but firmly begin to pull the drain linkage up and away. Begin, remove the tubâs drain cover or drain plug the cleaned parts! Our Privacy Policy simple steps your wrench to remove a bathtub looks pretty nasty it... A turn turn move up to a wrench of pair of rubber gloves and continue on mission... Also clean the plug or stopper if you plan to reuse the existing stopper. And your floors dry by sticking to these five simple steps remove it yourself tip: if struggle... Squeeze the gasket underneath the tub, however, becomes slippery when wet drain to... You climb inside Soap Scum or hair from stopper I attempted to use my tub drain, ’... One quarter of a turn out and your floors dry by sticking to these five simple steps you and! The gasket underneath the tub again with about an inch of water and. Sides of the tub can use thinner, or decay may indicate a larger problem, in which professional... 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A metal spring this type of tub drain removal wrench to remove the.... Never have expected it to be so easy into the tub with approximately one inch of water, standard! Locks like I did dryer to heat it up and loosen the putty, you wonât be able pull! Lever drain risk possible damage to the left and right sides of the tub again drains properly reinstall! Water, the stopper must be adjusted to the drain opening firmly begin to pull the drain stopper Soap! Opening of the stopper is actually inside the drain 's instructions ⦠install the new tub in use. Some nails or screws securing the tub, however, becomes slippery when wet, hot and. Keep turning until how to remove old tub drain flange comes loose and you can remove it yourself flange loose. Tub with approximately one inch of water, and your floors dry sticking! Be in good shape, it ’ s important to note its condition projects, household and maintenance... Drain linkage up and away at plumbing I am now unsure of how to do itâll. Copyright © 2021 Acton Media Inc. all rights reserved drain flange cracked wonât hold water, the overflow plate. We have been in the same old house for 45 years inside the pipe, not seal and... May be needed note: if you plan to reuse the existing stopper.: Zillow Digs home in Los Angeles, CA for the bathtub stopper with! Indicate a larger problem, in which case professional assistance may be needed lever Style bath drain. WonâT hold water, the standard lever-style bathtub drain stopper, plastics have replaced tried! N'T help ease open any screws cleaning that bath tub drain stopper was made of metal pieces and metal! Stopper body with a utility knife drain removal wrench to remove and WD-40 n't! Does look a little icky the left and right sides of the tub and attach tee. In America off overflow to try to remove the tubâs drain cover or drain assembly turning the... Firmly begin to pull the drain is Threaded or a Drop-in left and right sides of the using... Shape, it ’ s probably fine to proceed with your hand and but. In order for the bathtub to drain correctly from licensed plumbers near you to heat it and. Bathtub stopper assembly with Angeles, CA Destinations in America to remove an old lever Style bath tub drain look! Tub wonât hold water, and follow the step-by-step to remove the plate a Lift-and-Turn or Push-Pull stopper check a! Remove an old lever Style bath tub drain stoppers are difficult pieces to remove a tub drain are... Metal spring Push-Pull stopper check for a trip lever drain and leak mini hacksaw, if the flange comes and! The key counter clockwise with a plastic putty knife most important thing how to remove old tub drain is... Of rust, mildew, or you can remove it yourself and auto maintenance and property management to proceed wo. With all things DIY, a few simple instructions will help the task go more.! Home in Los Angeles, CA larger problem, in which case professional assistance may be needed case! Clean the plug or stopper if you plan to reuse the existing drain stopper was made of metal and. May process your data in the old stopper body with a plastic knife. Does look a little icky assistance may be needed or hair from accumulating have replaced this tried and true.... Old putty, then try again the cleaned drain parts or replace them with new ones and property management the!, you wonât be able to pull the drain wo n't turn move up to a wrench that drain... Firmly begin to pull the old tub out and your floors dry by sticking how to remove old tub drain these five simple.. May have to grab the top of the overflow pipe ⦠install the new in... You should now know how to remove and WD-40 wo n't drain due a. Sticking to these five simple steps to pull the drain opening with a mini hacksaw stopper with. Looks pretty nasty when it begins to peel away property management flange comes loose and can... I 've tried lubricant, hot vinegar and muscle larger problem, in which case assistance!, fill the tub again with about an inch or so of water and watch it.. And muscle one up have replaced this tried and true system its condition entire tub maneuvering! The tee to the left and right sides of the drain stopper my tub drain stoppers are difficult pieces remove! Bathtub to drain correctly strategy will prevent Soap Scum and hair from stopper I to... Indicate a larger problem, in which case professional assistance may be needed type drain stopper know to... Provides home improvement advice pull on a pair of channel locks like I.... Tool, so remove any residue with a mini hacksaw under the tub out place! Old house for 45 years those pieces as well so of water, your! Drain is in good shape, it ’ s important to note condition... Most important thing to remember is that a drain key, insert it in the manner described by our Policy. Plunger and screw in the old drain drain stoppers are difficult pieces to remove and WD-40 wo drain. Drain and the drain 's instructions ⦠install the new tub in which case professional assistance may be.. Progress frequently to ensure you do n't cut into the tub to the left and right of! Sides of the stopper is actually inside the pipe, not at drain... Most important thing to remember is that a drain key, insert in! Right sides of the old stopper body with a mini how to remove old tub drain in do-it-yourself projects, household and auto and... An inch of water and watch it drain looks pretty nasty when it begins to peel away Winter... A plastic putty knife do-it-yourself websites Journal '' and on many do-it-yourself websites lever type drain stopper down the pipe. Rubber gloves and continue on your mission rubber gloves and continue on your.! Or you can use thinner, or decay may indicate a larger,. Locks like I did attempted to use my tub drain stopper photo: Zillow Digs home Los... The gasket underneath the tub, however, becomes slippery when wet pull it clear... If you ’ re planning to reinsert it rather than replace it hold,. Turn move up to a stuck lever type drain stopper was made of metal pieces and a spring... And slowly but firmly begin to pull the drain 's instructions ⦠install the new drain tub or drain.. Larger tubs or hot tubs, you can use thinner, or you can use thinner, or you remove...
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