How Do You Remove A Bathtub Drain

How to Remove a Bathtub Drain

A bathtub drain is a necessary component for draining water from the bathtub. It is usually made of metal or plastic and is connected to the bathtub drainpipe. If your bathtub drain is clogged or damaged, you may need to remove it to clean it or replace it. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to remove a bathtub drain: ### Step 1: Gather the Necessary Tools Before you start, make sure you have the following tools and materials: * Adjustable wrench * Plumber's putty knife * Bucket * Gloves * Safety goggles * Screwdriver * Flashlight (optional) ### Step 2: Prepare the Bathtub * Turn off the water supply to the bathtub. * Open the drain to allow any remaining water to drain out. * Place a bucket underneath the drain to catch any water or debris that may fall out. ### Step 3: Remove the Overflow Plate * Locate the overflow plate, which is usually a small, round plate near the top of the bathtub. * Use a screwdriver to pry off the overflow plate. * Be careful not to drop the overflow plate into the drain. ### Step 4: Remove the Drain Stopper * Locate the drain stopper, which is usually a round or square knob in the center of the drain. * Use a screwdriver to pry off the drain stopper. * If the drain stopper is stuck, you may need to use a plumber's putty knife to loosen it. ### Step 5: Remove the Drain Grate * Locate the drain grate, which is the metal or plastic cover that sits over the drain opening. * Use a screwdriver to pry off the drain grate. * Be careful not to drop the drain grate into the drain. ### Step 6: Remove the Drain Trap * Locate the drain trap, which is the U-shaped pipe that connects the drain to the drainpipe. * Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the nuts that hold the drain trap in place. * Be careful not to drop the drain trap into the drain. ### Step 7: Clean the Drain * Once you have removed the drain trap, you can clean the drain. * Use a plumber's putty knife to scrape away any buildup of hair, soap scum, or other debris. * You can also use a drain cleaner to help dissolve any clogs. ### Step 8: Reinstall the Drain Trap * Once you have cleaned the drain, you can reinstall the drain trap. * Hand-tighten the nuts that hold the drain trap in place. * Do not overtighten the nuts, as this could damage the drain trap. ### Step 9: Reinstall the Drain Grate and Drain Stopper * Reinstall the drain grate and drain stopper. * Make sure that the drain grate is properly seated and that the drain stopper is functioning properly. ### Step 10: Turn on the Water Supply * Turn on the water supply to the bathtub. * Check for leaks around the drain. * If there are any leaks, tighten the nuts on the drain trap until the leaks stop. ### Additional Tips: * If you are having difficulty removing the drain, you can try using a penetrating oil to loosen the nuts and bolts. * If you are working in a tight space, you can use a flashlight to help you see better. * If you are replacing the drain, make sure that you purchase a drain that is compatible with your bathtub. ### Conclusion: Removing a bathtub drain is a relatively easy task that can be completed in a few minutes. By following these steps, you can safely and effectively remove your bathtub drain. If you have any questions or concerns, it is always best to consult with a professional plumber.