Replace A Bathtub Drain Pipe And Overflow Tube

Replacing a Bathtub Drain Pipe and Overflow Tube

A leaky bathtub drain or overflow tube can lead to serious water damage and expensive repairs. That's why it's important to know how to replace them yourself. With a few basic tools and a little know-how, you can tackle this project in an afternoon.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

You will need the following materials to replace a bathtub drain pipe and overflow tube:

New bathtub drain pipe
New bathtub overflow tube
Phillips head screwdriver
Adjustable wrench
Plumber's putty
Teflon tape

Step 2: Remove the Old Drain Pipe

Start by removing the old drain pipe. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the drain cover in place. Once the drain cover is removed, you will see the drain pipe. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the drain pipe and remove it from the bathtub.

Step 3: Remove the Old Overflow Tube

Next, remove the old overflow tube. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the overflow plate in place. Once the overflow plate is removed, you will see the overflow tube. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the overflow tube and remove it from the bathtub.

Step 4: Install the New Drain Pipe

Apply a bead of plumber's putty around the base of the new drain pipe. Insert the new drain pipe into the bathtub drain hole and tighten it with an adjustable wrench. Make sure to tighten the drain pipe until it is snug, but do not overtighten it.

Step 5: Install the New Overflow Tube

Apply a bead of plumber's putty around the base of the new overflow tube. Insert the new overflow tube into the bathtub overflow hole and tighten it with an adjustable wrench. Make sure to tighten the overflow tube until it is snug, but do not overtighten it.

Step 6: Reinstall the Drain Cover and Overflow Plate

Reinstall the drain cover and overflow plate by screwing them into place. Turn on the water and check for leaks. If there are any leaks, tighten the drain pipe or overflow tube until the leak stops.

Tips

If you are having trouble removing the old drain pipe or overflow tube, you can use a penetrating oil to loosen them.
Be careful not to overtighten the drain pipe or overflow tube. Overtightening can damage the bathtub.
If you are not comfortable replacing a bathtub drain pipe or overflow tube yourself, you can hire a professional plumber to do it for you.