How To Fix A Bathtub Drain That Won T Hold Water

How to Fix a Bathtub Drain That Won't Hold Water

A bathtub drain that won't hold water can be a real inconvenience. Not only does it make it difficult to take a bath, but it can also lead to water damage in your bathroom. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to fix the problem yourself.

1. Check the Overflow Drain

The overflow drain is a small hole located near the top of the bathtub. Its purpose is to prevent water from overflowing the tub and damaging your bathroom floor. If the overflow drain is clogged, it can cause water to leak out of the tub, even when the drain plug is closed. To clean the overflow drain, you can use a small brush or a piece of wire. Be careful not to push the brush or wire too far into the drain, as you could damage the pipe. Once you have cleaned the drain, test it by filling the tub with water and seeing if it holds.

2. Replace the Drain Plug

A worn-out or damaged drain plug can also cause water to leak out of the bathtub. If the drain plug is cracked or broken, it will not be able to form a tight seal against the drain hole. This will allow water to leak out, even when the drain plug is closed. To replace the drain plug, simply unscrew the old plug from the drain hole. Be careful not to drop the screw into the drain. Once you have removed the old plug, apply a small amount of plumber's putty to the threads of the new plug. This will help to create a tight seal against the drain hole. Screw the new plug into the drain hole until it is snug.

3. Tighten the Drain Pipe

The drain pipe is the pipe that carries water from the bathtub drain to the sewer. If the drain pipe is loose, it can cause water to leak out of the bathtub. To tighten the drain pipe, you will need a wrench. Place the wrench around the drain pipe and turn it clockwise until it is snug. Be careful not to overtighten the drain pipe, as this could damage the pipe.

4. Replace the Drain Seal

The drain seal is a rubber washer that creates a seal between the drain pipe and the bathtub. If the drain seal is worn out or damaged, it can cause water to leak out of the bathtub. To replace the drain seal, you will need to remove the drain pipe. Once you have removed the drain pipe, you will see the drain seal. The drain seal is usually held in place by a few screws. Remove the screws and lift out the old drain seal. The application of a small amount of plumber's putty to the new seal can help ensure a tight seal against the drain pipe. Insert the new drain seal into the drain hole and replace the screws.

5. Call a Plumber

If you have tried all of the above steps and you are still unable to fix the bathtub drain, you should call a plumber. A plumber will be able to diagnose the problem and fix it quickly and easily. Conclusion Fixing a bathtub drain that won't hold water is usually a simple task that can be done by yourself. However, if you are uncomfortable working with plumbing, you should call a plumber to do the job for you.