Replace A Bathtub Drain

How to Replace a Bathtub Drain: A Step-by-Step Guide

A bathtub drain is an essential component of any bathroom, allowing water to flow out of the tub and preventing leaks. Over time, however, bathtub drains can become worn or damaged, leading to leaks and other problems. If you're experiencing issues with your bathtub drain, you may need to replace it. Replacing a bathtub drain is a relatively simple DIY project that can be completed in a few hours. With the right tools and materials, you can easily remove the old drain and install a new one. ### Tools and Materials Before you begin, gather the following tools and materials: * Adjustable wrench * Screwdriver * Pliers * Bucket * Old towels or rags * New bathtub drain assembly * Plumber's putty or silicone sealant * Utility knife ### Step-by-Step Instructions 1.

Turn Off the Water Supply:

- Locate the water supply valves for your bathtub. These valves are typically located underneath the sink or behind the toilet. - Turn the valves clockwise to turn off the water supply to the bathtub. 2.

Prepare the Area:

- Place a bucket underneath the bathtub drain to catch any water that leaks out. - Spread old towels or rags around the drain to protect the floor from water damage. 3.

Remove the Old Drain Cover:

- Use a screwdriver or pliers to remove the screws that secure the drain cover in place. - Once the screws are removed, you should be able to lift off the drain cover. 4.

Remove the Old Drain Assembly:

- Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the slip nut that connects the drain assembly to the drainpipe. - Once the slip nut is loosened, you should be able to remove the old drain assembly. 5.

Clean the Drainpipe:

- Use a utility knife to remove any old plumber's putty or silicone sealant from the drainpipe. - Make sure the drainpipe is clean and free of debris before installing the new drain assembly. 6.

Apply Plumber's Putty or Silicone Sealant:

- Apply a ring of plumber's putty or silicone sealant around the base of the new drain assembly. - Make sure the sealant is evenly distributed and that there are no gaps. 7.

Install the New Drain Assembly:

- Insert the new drain assembly into the drainpipe. - Hand-tighten the slip nut until it is snug. - Use an adjustable wrench to tighten the slip nut further, but be careful not to overtighten it. 8.

Install the New Drain Cover:

- Place the new drain cover over the drain assembly. - Secure the drain cover in place with the screws that you removed earlier. 9.

Turn On the Water Supply:

- Turn the water supply valves counterclockwise to turn on the water supply to the bathtub. - Check for leaks around the drain assembly. If you see any leaks, tighten the slip nut further. 10.

Test the Drain:

- Run water into the bathtub and check to make sure that the drain is working properly. - The water should drain out of the tub quickly and smoothly. ### Troubleshooting Tips If you're having trouble replacing your bathtub drain, here are a few troubleshooting tips: *

Make sure that you have the right tools and materials.

If you don't have the right tools, you may not be able to properly remove the old drain assembly or install the new one. *

Be careful not to overtighten the slip nut.

Overtightening the slip nut can damage the drain assembly or the drainpipe. *

If you see any leaks around the drain assembly, tighten the slip nut further.

You may also need to apply more plumber's putty or silicone sealant. *

If you're still having trouble, you may need to call a plumber.

A plumber can diagnose the problem and repair the drain quickly and easily. ### Conclusion Replacing a bathtub drain is a relatively simple DIY project that can be completed in a few hours. With the right tools and materials, you can easily remove the old drain and install a new one. If you're experiencing issues with your bathtub drain, don't hesitate to give it a try!