Bathtub Full Of Water Won T Drain

Bathtub Full of Water Won't Drain: Troubleshooting and Solutions

A bathtub full of water that won't drain can be a frustrating and inconvenient problem. There are several reasons why this might happen, ranging from simple clogs to more complex plumbing issues. In this article, we'll walk you through some troubleshooting steps to help you identify and fix the problem.

1. Check the Drain Hole for Obstructions

The first thing to check is the drain hole itself. Look for any visible obstructions, such as hair, soap scum, or other debris. If you see anything blocking the drain, try removing it with a pair of pliers or a drain snake.

2. Clean the Drain Trap

The drain trap is a U-shaped pipe located underneath the drain hole. It's designed to trap debris and prevent it from entering the plumbing system. Over time, the drain trap can become clogged with hair, soap scum, and other gunk, which can prevent water from draining properly.

To clean the drain trap, you'll need to remove it from the drain pipe. Place a bucket underneath the drain trap to catch any water that spills out. Then, use a wrench to loosen the nuts that hold the drain trap in place. Once the drain trap is removed, you can clean it out with a drain snake or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar.

3. Check the Overflow Drain

The overflow drain is a small hole located near the top of the bathtub. It's designed to prevent water from overflowing the bathtub if the drain becomes clogged. If the overflow drain is clogged, it can prevent water from draining properly.

To clean the overflow drain, you'll need to remove the overflow plate. The overflow plate is usually held in place with a few screws. Once the overflow plate is removed, you can clean out the overflow drain with a drain snake or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar.

4. Check the Vent Pipe

The vent pipe is a pipe that connects the bathtub drain to the roof of your house. It's designed to allow air into the plumbing system, which helps to prevent clogs. If the vent pipe is clogged, it can create a vacuum that prevents water from draining properly.

To check the vent pipe, you'll need to go up on your roof and look for the vent pipe. The vent pipe will usually be located near the bathroom. If the vent pipe is clogged, you can try clearing it out with a drain snake.

5. Call a Plumber

If you've tried all of the above troubleshooting steps and your bathtub still won't drain, it's time to call a plumber. A plumber will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action.

Conclusion

A bathtub full of water that won't drain can be a frustrating problem, but it's usually something that can be fixed with a little troubleshooting. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can identify and fix the problem yourself in most cases. However, if you're not comfortable working on plumbing fixtures, it's always best to call a plumber.