Removing Bathtub Drain - Home Bathtub

Removing a Bathtub Drain: A Step-by-Step Guide

A bathtub drain is a crucial component that allows water to drain from the bathtub. Over time, it can become clogged with hair, soap scum, and other debris, leading to slow drainage or even complete blockage. Regular maintenance and proper cleaning can prevent these issues, but sometimes, removing the drain is necessary for a thorough cleaning or replacement. ### Before You Begin Before you start removing the bathtub drain, gather the necessary tools and materials: * Adjustable wrench or pliers * Flat-head screwdriver * Putty knife * Flashlight * Bucket or basin * Gloves * Safety goggles * Replacement drain (optional) ### Step-by-Step Guide 1.

Turn Off the Water Supply:

Start by locating the water supply valve that controls the water flow to your bathtub. It is usually located under the sink or behind the bathtub. Turn the valve clockwise to turn off the water supply completely. 2.

Prepare the Bathtub:

Place a bucket or basin under the bathtub drain to catch any water or debris that may fall during the removal process. Cover the drain opening with a rag to prevent small parts from falling into the drainpipe. 3.

Locate the Drain Assembly:

Look underneath the bathtub and identify the drain assembly. It consists of the drain cover, strainer, body, and tailpiece. The drain cover is usually held in place by a single screw or a pop-up mechanism. 4.

Remove the Drain Cover:

If the drain cover is secured with a screw, use a screwdriver to remove it. If it's a pop-up type, press down on the center of the drain cover and twist it counterclockwise to release it. 5.

Remove the Strainer:

Once the drain cover is removed, you'll see the strainer. It is usually held in place by gravity or friction. Carefully lift the strainer out of the drainpipe. Be prepared for any water or debris to fall into the bucket or basin underneath. 6.

Disconnect the Tailpiece:

The tailpiece is the curved pipe that connects the drain body to the drainpipe. Use an adjustable wrench or pliers to loosen the slip nut that secures the tailpiece to the drain body. Be careful not to drop the nut into the drainpipe. 7.

Remove the Drain Body:

Once the tailpiece is disconnected, you can remove the drain body. Carefully lift it out of the bathtub, taking care not to spill any water or debris. If the drain body is corroded or damaged, it may need to be replaced. 8.

Clean the Drainpipe:

With the drain assembly removed, you can inspect and clean the drainpipe. Use a flashlight to look for any clogs or obstructions. If you find any, use a plumber's snake or a drain cleaning solution to remove them. 9.

Install the Replacement Drain (Optional):

If you're replacing the old drain, follow the manufacturer's instructions to install the new drain assembly. Make sure to apply plumber's putty around the base of the drain body to ensure a watertight seal. 10.

Reassemble the Drain:

Once the replacement drain is installed, reassemble the drain assembly by inserting the drain body, strainer, and drain cover. Tighten the slip nut on the tailpiece to secure it to the drain body. 11.

Test the Drain:

Turn on the water supply and allow water to flow into the bathtub. Check for any leaks around the drain assembly. If you find any, tighten the connections until the leak stops. 12.

Clean Up:

Dispose of the old drain assembly and any debris properly. Clean up the area around the bathtub and remove any tools or materials you used. ### Safety Precautions * Always wear gloves and safety goggles when working with plumbing fixtures to protect yourself from sharp edges and splashing water. * If you encounter any electrical components during the removal process, turn off the power supply to the bathroom before proceeding. * If you're unsure about any step, it's best to call a qualified plumber for assistance. By following these steps, you can safely and effectively remove a bathtub drain for cleaning or replacement. Regular maintenance and proper cleaning can help extend the life of your bathtub drain and prevent future problems.