How To Install A Bathtub Drain And Trap

Installing a bathtub drain and trap is a straightforward task that can be completed in a few hours with the right tools and materials. Follow these steps to ensure a successful installation:

1. Gather Your Tools and Materials:

- Adjustable wrench - Plumber's putty - Hacksaw - Tape measure - Screwdriver - Utility knife - Tub drain assembly (including stopper and overflow drain) - Bathtub trap - PVC pipe (if needed) - PVC glue (if needed) - Safety glasses

2. Prepare the Bathtub Drain Opening:

- Remove the old bathtub drain if there is one. - Clean the drain opening thoroughly. - Apply a bead of plumber's putty around the drain opening.

3. Install the Bathtub Drain Assembly:

- Insert the drain assembly into the drain opening. - Hand-tighten the drain assembly until it is snug. - Use an adjustable wrench to tighten the drain assembly until it is secure.

4. Install the Overflow Drain:

- Locate the overflow drain hole on the bathtub. - Apply a bead of plumber's putty around the overflow drain hole. - Insert the overflow drain into the overflow drain hole. - Hand-tighten the overflow drain until it is snug. - Use an adjustable wrench to tighten the overflow drain until it is secure.

5. Install the Bathtub Trap:

- Cut a section of PVC pipe to fit between the bathtub drain and the trap. - Apply PVC glue to the ends of the PVC pipe and the bathtub drain. - Connect the PVC pipe to the bathtub drain. - Apply PVC glue to the ends of the PVC pipe and the trap. - Connect the PVC pipe to the trap.

6. Test the Drain and Trap:

- Turn on the water and allow it to run through the drain and trap. - Check for leaks around the drain and trap. - If there are any leaks, tighten the connections until the leaks stop.

7. Clean Up:

- Wipe away any excess plumber's putty or PVC glue. - Replace the bathtub drain cover.

Additional Tips:

- When choosing a bathtub drain and trap, make sure they are compatible with your bathtub. - Use a flashlight to inspect the drain and trap for leaks. - If you are not comfortable working with PVC pipe, you can hire a plumber to install the drain and trap for you. By following these steps, you can successfully install a bathtub drain and trap and enjoy a leak-free bathtub.