How to Remove and Replace Your Bathtub Drain

How to Remove and Replace Your Bathtub Drain

Your bathtub drain may require a replacement at some point, especially if it comes with a built-in tub drain stopper. Is water still draining slowly even when your tub is plugged? Or does your tub hold water when it is supposed to be draining? Don’t ignore these symptoms.

If you notice these problems persisting even after you have done basic fixes on the tub flange, it is time to consider replacing the drain.

Removing and replacing your ​bathtub drain​ might sound like a difficult task that calls for a plumber. But it is actually a minor repair job that you can probably do yourself with the right tools.

Here is a guide to help you remove and replace the bathtub drain:

What you’ll need Buy a high-quality replacement tub drain strainer, flange, and stopper from a reputable brand. It is important to make sure that the new set of parts—all the way to the tub drain stopper—are similar to the old ones. Otherwise, you risk flooding after installation. You will also need some plumber’s putty, a wrench or channel locks, and a Phillips screwdriver. Get some cleaning rags, too, as they may come in handy later.

The procedure * Remove the old tub drain stopper and plug mechanism, which should have a face plate in your tub with two screws securing it in place. After removing the cover plate, you should have access to the entire assembly. Grasp it and pull it out of the hole where it was installed. * Some pieces may break off during removal. You have the option to open the wet wall panel if you can access the other side of that wall, then do repairs in that open space. But this is usually not possible. You will probably have to fish out any broken-off pieces using a wire hanger or a piece of wire shaped into a hook. * After removing the old broken pieces, you will need to clean up before proceeding. It may be possible to repair the draining mechanism without replacing the tub flange and other parts, simply by cleaning it and correctly putting it back together. *Consider testing the new parts—including the tub drain strainer—to make sure that everything is in good condition. The stopper must fit and plug properly before you install the new bathtub drain stopper. Otherwise, you will need to have specific equipment to get it done correctly. *Apply plumber’s putty on all flanges, including the tub flange, as well as the pipes where they are attached to each other to ensure a proper seal. The mechanism lifting and lowering the stopper must be properly attached to an overflow plate. But before sealing the plate, check that the stopper is working correctly. If your tub holds water and drains water appropriately and as intended, that’s when you can seal down the plate. *Smear plumber’s putty on the plate before placing it in place and screwing it down. Using the rags, clean up any excess putty and make sure you did not cover the overflow vent.

By this time, you should have successfully installed a new bathtub drain with high-quality parts.

This is a simple enough project for a DIY enthusiast. You can buy all the replacements you need online. Of course, if you are unsure of your ​basic plumbing skills​, you can also choose to leave the task to a professional to avoid making costly mistakes.