How To Fix A Frozen Bathtub Drain Stopper

A frozen bathtub drain stopper can be a frustrating problem, especially when you need to take a shower or bath. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to try and fix it yourself. Here are some essential aspects to consider:

1. Check the Overflow Drain

The overflow drain is a small hole located near the top of the bathtub. If the overflow drain is clogged, it can cause water to back up and freeze the drain stopper. To check the overflow drain, remove the drain cover and insert a wire or pipe cleaner into the hole. If the wire or pipe cleaner does not go through, the overflow drain is clogged.

2. Remove the Drain Stopper

If the overflow drain is not clogged, the next step is to remove the drain stopper. To do this, you will need to use a pair of pliers or a wrench. Grip the drain stopper with the pliers or wrench and turn it counterclockwise. If the drain stopper is frozen, you may need to use a hair dryer or heat gun to thaw it out before you can remove it.

3. Clean the Drain Stopper and Drain

Once the drain stopper is removed, clean it with soap and water. You can also use a toothbrush to clean the inside of the drain. Once the drain stopper and drain are clean, reassemble the drain stopper and tighten it by hand.

4. Apply Petroleum Jelly

If the drain stopper is still freezing, you can try applying petroleum jelly to the O-ring. The petroleum jelly will help to lubricate the O-ring and prevent it from freezing.

5. Call a Plumber

If you have tried all of the above steps and the drain stopper is still frozen, you may need to call a plumber. A plumber can use a drain snake to clear the drain and remove any blockages that may be causing the drain stopper to freeze.

Following these steps can help you fix a frozen bathtub drain stopper. However, if you are not comfortable working on plumbing yourself, it is always best to call a plumber.