Old Bathtub Drain Stopper

Old Bathtub Drain Stopper: A Comprehensive Guide

Whether you're dealing with a clogged bathtub drain or simply want to update the look of your bathroom, replacing an old bathtub drain stopper is a relatively easy and inexpensive DIY project. With a few basic tools and a little bit of know-how, you can have your drain stopper replaced in no time. ### Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Materials Before you start, gather the following tools and materials: * Adjustable wrench * Phillips head screwdriver * Flat head screwdriver * Bucket or bowl * Rags * New bathtub drain stopper * Plumber's putty (optional) ### Step 2: Turn Off the Water Supply Before you do anything else, turn off the water supply to your bathtub. This will prevent water from leaking out of the drain while you're working. ### Step 3: Remove the Old Drain Stopper To remove the old drain stopper, start by unscrewing the overflow cover plate. This is usually located near the top of the bathtub, just below the faucet. Once the overflow cover plate is removed, you should see the drain stopper itself. It's usually held in place by a few screws. Use the Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screws, then lift the drain stopper out of the drain. If the drain stopper is stuck, you may need to use the adjustable wrench to loosen it. Be careful not to damage the drain or the surrounding area. ### Step 4: Clean the Drain Once the old drain stopper is removed, take a few minutes to clean the drain. Use the bucket or bowl to catch any water that comes out of the drain, and use the rags to wipe away any dirt or debris. If the drain is particularly dirty, you may want to use a commercial drain cleaner to help loosen any clogs. Follow the directions on the product label carefully. ### Step 5: Install the New Drain Stopper To install the new drain stopper, simply reverse the steps you took to remove the old one. Start by inserting the drain stopper into the drain. Then, replace the screws and tighten them until the drain stopper is secure. If you're using plumber's putty, apply a thin bead around the base of the drain stopper before you insert it into the drain. This will help to create a watertight seal. ### Step 6: Test the Drain Stopper Once the new drain stopper is installed, turn on the water supply and test it to make sure it's working properly. The water should drain out of the tub quickly and easily, and there should be no leaks. If you find that the drain stopper is leaking, you may need to tighten the screws or apply more plumber's putty. ### Conclusion Replacing an old bathtub drain stopper is a relatively easy and inexpensive DIY project that can be completed in a matter of minutes. With the right tools and materials, you can have your drain stopper replaced in no time.