Repair Bathtub Drain - Home Bathtub

How to Repair a Bathtub Drain: A Step-by-Step Guide

A leaky or clogged bathtub drain can be a major inconvenience and lead to water damage if not repaired promptly. Fortunately, repairing a bathtub drain is usually a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours with the right tools and materials. ### Tools and Materials You'll Need: * Adjustable wrench * Plumber's wrench * Phillips head screwdriver * Flat head screwdriver * Putty knife * Replacement drain stopper * Plumber's putty * Teflon tape * Utility knife * Safety glasses ### Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Turn Off the Water Supply:

Before starting any work on the drain, turn off the water supply to the bathtub. This can usually be done by turning the valve located under the sink or behind the bathtub.

2. Remove the Drain Stopper:

Use your adjustable wrench to loosen and remove the drain stopper from the bathtub drain. Be careful not to drop the stopper down the drain.

3. Remove the Drain Gasket:

Once the drain stopper is removed, you will see a rubber gasket around the drain hole. Use your putty knife to carefully pry the gasket out of the drain.

4. Clean the Drain Hole:

Use a scrub brush and some cleaning solution to clean the drain hole and remove any dirt or debris. Rinse the drain thoroughly with water.

5. Apply Plumber's Putty:

Roll a small amount of plumber's putty into a snake-like shape. Place the putty around the drain hole, making sure to press it firmly into place. The putty should form a seal around the drain hole to prevent leaks.

6. Install the New Drain Stopper:

Place the new drain stopper into the drain hole. Make sure that the stopper is properly seated and that it forms a tight seal with the plumber's putty.

7. Tighten the Drain Stopper:

Use your adjustable wrench to tighten the drain stopper until it is snug. Be careful not to overtighten the drain stopper, as this could damage the drain.

8. Install the Drain Gasket:

Place the rubber gasket around the drain hole. Press the gasket into place until it is flush with the drain hole.

9. Apply Teflon Tape:

Wrap a few layers of Teflon tape around the threads of the drain pipe. This will help to create a watertight seal between the drain pipe and the bathtub.

10. Install the Drain Pipe:

Screw the drain pipe into the bathtub drain hole. Tighten the drain pipe until it is snug.

11. Turn On the Water Supply:

Turn on the water supply to the bathtub and check for leaks. If there are any leaks, tighten the drain pipe or drain stopper until the leak stops.

12. Test the Drain:

Run water into the bathtub and check to make sure that the drain is working properly. The water should drain quickly and smoothly without any leaks.

Additional Tips:

* If the drain is clogged, you can try to clear the clog using a drain snake or a chemical drain cleaner. * If the drain is damaged or corroded, it may need to be replaced. * If you are unsure about how to repair a bathtub drain, it is best to call a professional plumber for help.