Putting in a bathtub drain could appear to be a frightening job, however with the appropriate instruments and a little bit little bit of know-how, it may be a comparatively simple course of. Whether or not you are a seasoned DIY fanatic or a whole novice, following these complete directions will information you thru the steps essential to efficiently set up your new tub drain.
Earlier than you start, collect all of the important supplies you will want: a brand new tub drain, a drain wrench, a plumber’s putty or silicone sealant, and a utility knife. Moreover, it’s possible you’ll want a flashlight or headlamp to light up the work space and a bucket to catch any water which will leak through the set up course of. With these instruments in hand, you are able to embark on the journey of putting in your new tub drain.
Step one is to take away the previous drain. Utilizing the drain wrench, loosen the drain cowl and take away it. Subsequent, unscrew the drain physique from the bathtub. Watch out to not drop any components down the drain. Clear the threads on the bathtub and the drain physique utilizing a humid material to make sure a safe match for the brand new drain. Apply a skinny layer of plumber’s putty or silicone sealant across the base of the brand new drain physique. Fastidiously align the drain physique with the bathtub opening and hand-tighten it into place. Utilizing the drain wrench, tighten the drain physique additional, taking care to not overtighten and injury the bathtub or the drain.
Getting ready the Tub Drain Meeting
Securing the Drain Meeting
Earlier than starting the set up course of, it’s essential to safe the drain meeting. This entails assembling the varied parts, together with the drain flange, washer, and drain physique, as per the producer’s directions. Be certain that all connections are tight and safe to stop any leaks or points afterward.
Positioning the Drain Meeting
Subsequent, place the drain meeting within the designated opening on the bathtub. Use a sealant or plumber’s putty across the drain flange to create a watertight seal and stop leaks. Press the meeting firmly into place and safe it utilizing the locking nut or bolts offered. Tighten them step by step and evenly to keep away from over-tightening.
Putting in the Stopper
As soon as the drain meeting is securely put in, set up the stopper. This sometimes entails inserting the stopper into the drain physique from the highest of the bathtub. Be certain that the stopper matches snugly and operates easily with none obstructions. Take a look at the stopper by filling the bathtub with a small quantity of water and checking for any leaks or improper drainage.
Eradicating the Outdated Drain Meeting
Step 1: Collect Your Instruments
Earlier than you start, ensure you have the mandatory instruments for the job: a flathead screwdriver, a Phillips head screwdriver, a pair of pliers, and a bucket or bowl.
Step 2: Take away the Drain Stopper
Most drain stoppers are held in place by a screw or a locking mechanism. Use the flathead screwdriver to take away the screw or disengage the locking mechanism. As soon as the screw is eliminated, pull the drain stopper up and out of the drain.
Step 3: Take away the Drain Grate
The drain grate is usually secured by screws or clips. Use the Phillips head screwdriver to take away the screws or unclip the clips. As soon as the screws are eliminated, fastidiously raise the drain grate up and out of the drain opening.
Step 4: Take away the Overflow Plate
In case your tub has an overflow plate, it can have to be eliminated earlier than you possibly can entry the drain meeting. The overflow plate is often held in place by a single screw. Use the flathead screwdriver to take away the screw after which pry the overflow plate off the bathtub.
Step 5: Take away the Tub Drain Meeting
As soon as the overflow plate is eliminated, you should have entry to the drain meeting. The drain meeting is usually held in place by a slip nut. Use the pliers to loosen the slip nut after which pull the drain meeting out of the drain opening.
Putting in the New Tub Drain Meeting
To finish the bathtub drain set up, you will have to comply with these steps:
Getting ready the Tub Drain Space
Begin by eradicating the previous tub drain meeting if there’s one in place. Clear the drain opening and surrounding space totally to take away any particles or previous sealant.
Apply a bead of plumber’s putty across the base of the brand new drain meeting. Place the drain meeting within the drain opening and press it firmly into the putty.
Tighten the drain meeting by rotating it clockwise till it’s comfortable towards the bathtub. Watch out to not overtighten, as this may injury the bathtub.
Connecting the Drain Pipe
Connect the drain pipe to the drain meeting by hand-tightening the slip nut. Use a wrench to tighten the nut additional, however once more, keep away from overtightening.
Insert the rubber washer into the overflow drain gap and connect the overflow plate to the bathtub.
Tighten the overflow plate screws till they’re comfortable. Don’t overtighten, as this may crack the bathtub.
Putting in the Overflow Cowl
Place the overflow cowl over the overflow drain gap and press it into place. It ought to match snugly and stop water from leaking out.
Caulk across the base of the drain meeting and overflow plate with silicone sealant to stop any leaks. Permit the sealant to dry fully earlier than utilizing the bathtub.
Congratulations! You have efficiently put in a brand new tub drain meeting.
Connecting the Overflow Tube
Connecting the overflow tube is a vital step in putting in your tub drain. It prevents water from overflowing the bathtub and flooding your toilet. Comply with these detailed steps to attach the overflow tube correctly:
1. Place the Overflow Tube
Insert the overflow tube into the overflow gap on the bathtub. Guarantee it’s absolutely inserted and matches snugly.
2. Align the Gasket
Find the gasket that got here with the overflow tube. Place it over the top of the tube that shall be inserted into the drain meeting. The gasket creates a watertight seal.
3. Connect with the Tub Drain
Apply a skinny layer of plumber’s putty across the opening of the bathtub drain the place the overflow tube will join. Insert the gasket-covered finish of the overflow tube into the drain opening.
4. Tighten the Connection
Use a wrench to fastidiously tighten the nut that secures the overflow tube to the bathtub drain. Don’t overtighten, as this might injury the parts. Comply with the producer’s directions for the really useful tightening torque.
As soon as the overflow tube is related, it’s important to check its performance. Run water into the bathtub and test for any leaks across the connection. For those who discover any leaks, tighten the nut barely or regulate the place of the overflow tube till the connection is watertight.
Sealing the Drain Meeting
5. Completely Seal the Drain Meeting
To make sure a watertight seal and stop leaks, it’s essential to totally seal the drain meeting. This is an in depth step-by-step information:
a. Apply Plumber’s Putty
Roll out a rope of plumber’s putty and form it into a hoop that is barely bigger than the drain flange. Place the putty ring across the base of the drain flange, ensuring it adheres to each the flange and the bathtub floor.
b. Place the Drain Gasket
Take the rubber drain gasket and place it over the drain flange, guaranteeing it matches snugly across the putty ring. The gasket acts as a further barrier to stop water from seeping via.
c. Safe the Drain Meeting
Place the drain meeting onto the drain flange, aligning the drain gap and overflow with the corresponding holes on the flange. Tighten the drain meeting nuts by hand till they’re comfortable, however keep away from overtightening.
d. Seal the Screws
Apply a small quantity of silicone caulk across the base of every drain meeting screw. This additional layer of sealant supplies further safety towards water leakage.
e. Examine and Retighten
As soon as the drain meeting is put in, fill the bathtub with water and test for any leaks. For those who discover any water seeping, retighten the drain meeting nuts and test for any cracks or injury to the seals.
Useful Ideas for Sealing:
– Use high-quality plumber’s putty and rubber gaskets to make sure sturdiness and stop leaks.
– Keep away from utilizing an excessive amount of putty, as it may intrude with the drain meeting’s motion.
– Tighten the drain meeting nuts evenly to stop uneven distribution of strain.
– For those who’re not sure about any steps, seek the advice of an expert plumber for steering.
Testing the Drain Meeting
After assembling the drainpipe, overflow meeting, and tub drain, it is important to check the meeting for leaks and correct operate.
Step 6: Thorough Drain Meeting Take a look at
Comply with these complete steps to make sure a completely purposeful drain meeting:
- Collect Supplies: Put together a bucket or massive container, pliers, and a flashlight.
- Fill Tub: Step by step fill the bath with water to a number of inches above the overflow drain.
- Examine Overflow: Test the overflow drain for any indicators of leakage or water seepage.
- Plug Drain: Shut the bathtub drain stopper and fill the bathtub to the utmost capability.
- Examine Leaking: Await a number of minutes and punctiliously examine the drainpipe, tub drain, and any joints for any leaks or drips.
- Unplug and Drain: Unplug the drain and observe the speed at which the water drains. It ought to drain shortly and effectively.
Further Ideas:
Checking for Hidden Leaks
For those who suspect a hidden leak, flip off the water provide and use a flashlight to examine the drainpipe, joints, and tub drain from under. Any water droplets or moisture accumulation point out a possible leak.
Adjusting Drain Stopper
If the drain stopper doesn’t seal tightly or drains too slowly, it’s possible you’ll want to regulate the linkage or exchange the stopper. Seek the advice of the producer’s directions for particular adjustment procedures.
By totally testing the drain meeting, you possibly can guarantee a leak-free and correctly functioning toilet tub drain system.
Gasket and Washer Measurement
Make sure the gasket and washer are the right measurement to your tub drain. An incorrect measurement could cause leaks or stop the drain from sealing correctly.
Cross-Threaded Drain Physique
If the drain physique is cross-threaded throughout set up, it may trigger leaks or injury to the bath. Thread the drain physique fastidiously and ensure it’s safe with out overtightening.
Free Tub Drain Meeting
A free tub drain meeting could cause leaks or enable water to seep out across the base of the drain. Tighten the drain meeting securely, utilizing a wrench or pliers if needed.
Clogged Drain Gap
A clogged drain gap can stop the drain from functioning correctly and result in water buildup. Use a drain snake or auger to clear any particles or obstructions from the drain gap.
Broken Tub Drain Stopper
A broken tub drain stopper can stop the drain from closing correctly, resulting in leaks or gradual drainage. Exchange the drain stopper with a brand new one whether it is cracked, worn, or lacking components.
Corroded Drain Parts
Over time, tub drain parts can grow to be corroded because of publicity to water and cleansing chemical compounds. This corrosion can weaken the parts and trigger leaks. Exchange corroded parts with new ones to make sure the drain features correctly.
Incorrect Drain Slope
The drain ought to have a slight slope in the direction of the drain gap to permit water to movement freely. If the drain is put in with an incorrect slope, water could pool within the tub or drain slowly.
Security Precautions for Tub Drain Set up
Collect Vital Instruments and Supplies
Earlier than starting, guarantee you will have all the mandatory instruments and supplies. This features a new drain equipment, adjustable wrench, putty knife, flashlight, and security glasses.
Flip Off Water Provide
Find the water provide shut-off valves beneath the sink or behind the bathtub. Shut each valves to cease the movement of water. Open the bathtub faucet briefly to launch any remaining water.
Defend Your Eyes and Pores and skin
Put on security glasses to guard your eyes from particles and splashback. Use gloves to stop pores and skin irritation from harsh chemical compounds.
Take away Outdated Drain
Place a bucket beneath the drain to catch any water or particles. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the drain flange nut and take away the previous drain.
Clear Drain Space
Use a putty knife to scrape off any previous sealant or particles from the drain space. Make sure the floor is clear and easy to create a great seal.
Put together New Drain
Apply a skinny bead of plumber’s putty across the base of the brand new drain flange. Place the drain flange over the drain gap and press down firmly to seal it.
Set up Journey Lever and Drain Pipe
Insert the journey lever into the drain mechanism and join it to the drain pipe. Safe the drain pipe to the drain flange utilizing a rubber washer and drain nut.
Tighten Drain Parts
Use an adjustable wrench to tighten the drain flange nut and journey lever nut securely. Keep away from overtightening to stop injury to the parts.
Take a look at the Drain
Activate the water provide and permit the bathtub to fill. Test for any leaks across the drain and make changes as needed.
Clear Up
Take away any particles or extra plumber’s putty and get rid of it correctly. Clear the drain to take away any remaining mud or grime.
Upkeep and Care of the Drain Meeting
Sustaining the Drain
Common upkeep will preserve your tub drain functioning correctly and stop clogs. Take away any hair, cleaning soap scum, or particles from the drain strainer after every use. Use a drain cleaner or baking soda and vinegar answer month-to-month to dissolve any buildup.
Checking for Leaks
Periodically test the drain meeting for leaks. Fill the bathtub with water and observe the drain for any drips or moisture. For those who discover any leaks, tighten the slip nut or exchange the O-ring.
Cleansing the Drain Plug
Clear the drain plug recurrently to take away cleaning soap scum and particles. Take away the plug from the drain and soak it in a mix of sizzling water and dish cleaning soap. Use a brush to wash away any cussed deposits.
Tightening the Slip Nut
If the drain meeting loosens over time, tighten the slip nut. Use a wrench or channel-lock pliers to grip the nut and switch it clockwise till it is comfortable. Don’t overtighten, as this may injury the nut or the drain meeting.
Changing the O-Ring
If the drain continues to leak after tightening the slip nut, the O-ring could also be broken. Take away the drain meeting and exchange the O-ring with a brand new one. Lubricate the O-ring with Vaseline earlier than reinstalling the drain.
Eradicating Clogs
If the drain turns into clogged, attempt utilizing a drain snake or plunger to take away the obstruction. Keep away from utilizing chemical drain cleaners, as they will injury the drain meeting.
Utilizing Drain Cleaner
If different strategies fail to clear the clog, use a industrial drain cleaner. Comply with the producer’s directions fastidiously. Keep away from utilizing drain cleaners too incessantly, as they are often corrosive.
Stopping Hair Clogs
To forestall hair clogs, set up a hair strainer within the drain. These strainers catch hair earlier than it may enter the drainpipe. Clear the strainer recurrently to take away any gathered hair.
Calling a Plumber
For those who expertise persistent leaks or clogs, contact a licensed plumber. They’ve the experience and instruments to diagnose and restore the issue successfully.
Hiring a Skilled for Tub Drain Set up
For those who’re not snug tackling the bathtub drain set up your self, hiring an expert plumber is the most suitable choice. This is a breakdown of the steps concerned:
1. Analysis and Discover a Respected Plumber:
Search for plumbers with expertise in tub drain installations and constructive critiques. Ask for referrals from buddies or neighbors or test on-line directories.
2. Get an Estimate:
Contact the plumber and supply particulars about your set up wants. Get a written estimate outlining the price of supplies, labor, and any potential unexpected bills.
3. Schedule the Set up:
When you’re glad with the estimate, schedule a time for the set up. Make sure you’re obtainable to offer the plumber entry to your toilet.
4. Put together the Toilet:
Clear the toilet space the place the set up will happen and take away any obstacles. Present the plumber with a transparent workspace.
5. Skilled Tub Drain Set up:
The plumber will examine the present drainpipe, take away the previous drain, and set up the brand new one. They’re going to make sure the drain is correctly sealed and related to the plumbing system.
6. Testing and Inspection:
After set up, the plumber will check the drain to make sure it is working accurately. They’re going to additionally examine the realm for any leaks or different points.
7. Cleanup:
The plumber will clear up the work space, leaving your toilet as they discovered it.
8. Guarantee and Assure:
{Most professional} plumbers provide warranties on their work. Make sure you perceive the phrases of the guarantee and preserve the documentation for future reference.
9. Fee:
As soon as the set up is full and also you’re glad, pay the plumber in line with the agreed-upon estimate.
10. Ideas for Hiring a Skilled:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Confirm Licensing and Insurance coverage | Make sure the plumber is licensed and insured to guard your self from any liabilities. |
| Test References | Ask for references from earlier purchasers to gauge their expertise and high quality of labor. |
| Contemplate Expertise | Search for plumbers with particular expertise in tub drain installations. |
| Learn Evaluations | Test on-line critiques to collect insights from different clients’ experiences. |
| Get A number of Estimates | Get hold of quotes from a number of plumbers to check prices and companies supplied. |
| Ask Questions | Do not hesitate to make clear any considerations or ask for detailed explanations through the session. |
Easy methods to Set up a Tub Drain
Putting in a bathtub drain is a simple job that may be accomplished in a couple of easy steps. By following these directions, you possibly can be certain that your tub drain is correctly put in and functioning accurately.
- Collect your supplies. You will want a brand new tub drain, a wrench, a screwdriver, and a putty knife.
- Take away the previous tub drain. Use the wrench to loosen the nuts that maintain the drain in place. As soon as the nuts are free, you possibly can pull the drain out of the bathtub.
- Clear the drain gap. Use the putty knife to take away any previous sealant or particles from the drain gap.
- Apply a bead of sealant across the drain gap. It will assist to create a watertight seal and stop leaks.
- Insert the brand new tub drain. Line up the drain with the opening and push it into place. Tighten the nuts till they’re comfortable.
- Take a look at the drain. Activate the water and permit the bathtub to fill. Test for any leaks across the drain.
Folks Additionally Ask
How do I do know if my tub drain must be changed?
There are a couple of indicators that point out that your tub drain could have to be changed. These embody:
- Leaks across the drain
- Sluggish draining
- Clogs which are tough to take away
- A broken or lacking drain stopper
Can I set up a bathtub drain myself?
Sure, putting in a bathtub drain is a comparatively easy job that may be accomplished in a couple of minutes. Nonetheless, if you’re not snug working with plumbing, it’s best to rent a certified plumber to do the job.
How a lot does it value to interchange a bathtub drain?
The price to interchange a bathtub drain will differ relying on the kind of drain you select and the labor prices in your space. Nonetheless, you possibly can count on to pay between $50 and $150 for all the undertaking.
