How To Remove Old Bathtub Drain

Removing an old bathtub drain may seem like a daunting task, but it is actually a relatively simple process that can be completed in a few hours with the right tools and a little bit of know-how. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to remove an old bathtub drain:

Step 1: Gather your tools and materials

You will need the following tools and materials to remove an old bathtub drain:

Adjustable wrench
Plumber's putty knife
Putty knife
Bucket
Rags
New bathtub drain

Step 2: Turn off the water supply

Be sure to turn off the water supply to the bathtub before you begin working on the drain. You can do this by turning off the main water valve or by closing the shut-off valves located under the sink.

Step 3: Remove the overflow plate

The overflow plate is the small, round plate located on the side of the bathtub near the top. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the overflow plate in place. Once the screws are removed, you can pull the overflow plate off.

Step 4: Remove the drain stopper

The drain stopper is the small, round plug that fits in the center of the drain. Use a pair of pliers to remove the drain stopper. You may need to use some force to remove the drain stopper, but be careful not to damage the drain.

Step 5: Remove the drain flange

The drain flange is the metal ring that surrounds the drain opening. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the drain flange. Once the drain flange is loose, you can remove it by hand.

Step 6: Remove the old bathtub drain

The old bathtub drain is now exposed. Use a plumber's putty knife to remove the old bathtub drain. Be careful not to damage the bathtub or the drain.

Step 7: Clean the drain opening

Use a putty knife to clean the drain opening. Remove any old putty or debris from the drain opening.

Step 8: Install the new bathtub drain

Apply a bead of plumber's putty around the base of the new bathtub drain. Insert the new bathtub drain into the drain opening. Tighten the drain flange by hand. Use an adjustable wrench to further tighten the drain flange.

Step 9: Install the drain stopper

Insert the drain stopper into the drain opening. Tighten the drain stopper by hand.

Step 10: Install the overflow plate

Place the overflow plate over the drain opening. Insert the screws into the overflow plate and tighten them with a screwdriver.

Step 11: Turn on the water supply

Turn on the water supply to the bathtub. Check for any leaks around the drain. If there are any leaks, tighten the drain flange or drain stopper until the leaks stop.

Step 12: Enjoy your new bathtub drain

You have now successfully removed your old bathtub drain and installed a new one. Enjoy your new bathtub drain!

Tips

If you are not comfortable removing the old bathtub drain yourself, you can call a plumber to do it for you.
Be careful not to damage the bathtub or the drain when removing the old bathtub drain.
Apply a bead of plumber's putty around the base of the new bathtub drain before inserting it into the drain opening.
Tighten the drain flange and drain stopper by hand before using an adjustable wrench to further tighten them.
Check for any leaks around the drain after turning on the water supply.