Staring at a slow-draining bathtub? We’ve all been there. Hair, soap scum, and who-knows-what-else accumulate over time, turning your relaxing soak into a frustrating waiting game. While a bottle of drain cleaner might offer a temporary fix, sometimes the only real solution is to tackle the problem at its source: the bathtub drain itself. Learning how to safely and effectively remove the drain allows you to clear out the gunk, replace a corroded component, or even upgrade to a more stylish fixture.
Don’t let a clogged or damaged drain ruin your bathing experience. Knowing how to remove a bathtub drain is a surprisingly useful DIY skill that can save you money on plumbing calls and give you the satisfaction of fixing things yourself. With the right tools and a little know-how, you can restore proper drainage and prevent bigger plumbing issues down the line. Plus, understanding the anatomy of your drain allows you to maintain it better and prevent future clogs from forming.
What kind of tools will I need and how do I know what kind of drain I have?
What’s the easiest way to remove a bathtub drain without special tools?
The easiest way to remove a bathtub drain without special tools involves using a flathead screwdriver and a pair of pliers. Carefully insert the screwdriver into one of the drain’s crossbars and use the pliers to grip the screwdriver handle, providing leverage to turn the drain counterclockwise. With steady pressure, the drain should unscrew, allowing you to lift it out.
Often, bathtub drains become stuck due to mineral buildup or corrosion. Before attempting to remove the drain, try pouring hot water down the drain to help loosen any debris. If hot water alone doesn’t work, a penetrating oil lubricant like WD-40 can be applied around the drain’s edges. Allow the lubricant to sit for 15-30 minutes before attempting removal again. This can significantly ease the process and prevent damage to the drain or tub. If the screwdriver and pliers method proves unsuccessful, consider trying a makeshift tool using a long-nose plier. Open the jaws of the pliers inside the drain opening and try to grip onto the crossbars and turn counter-clockwise to loosen. Be patient and apply steady, even pressure. Avoid excessive force, as this could strip the crossbars or damage the drain fitting, making removal even more difficult. If none of these methods work, it might be best to consider purchasing a specialized drain removal tool or contacting a plumber to avoid further issues.
How do I identify which type of bathtub drain I have before removal?
Carefully examine the visible parts of the drain in your bathtub. Common types include pop-up, lift-and-turn, toe-touch, and twist-and-close (also sometimes called push-pull). The activation mechanism for each dictates its appearance. If it has a small lever near the overflow plate it’s likely a plunger style. The shape and how you interact with the stopper are the primary identifiers.
Identifying your bathtub drain type before attempting removal is crucial because each type requires a different approach and specific tools. For instance, a pop-up drain often has a linkage connected to a lever on the overflow plate; disengaging this linkage is necessary before unscrewing the drain flange. A lift-and-turn drain typically has a visible screw on top of the stopper, while a toe-touch drain requires a specialized tool to grip and twist it out. Incorrectly attempting removal can damage the drain, the tub, or even the pipes, leading to costly repairs. Here’s a quick breakdown of characteristics to help identify your drain type:
- Pop-Up: Operated by a lever near the overflow plate. The stopper is usually mushroom-shaped.
- Lift-and-Turn: Stopper is lifted and turned to lock or unlock. Often has a visible screw on top.
- Toe-Touch: Activated by pressing the stopper with your toe. Often has a smooth, button-like appearance.
- Twist-and-Close (Push-Pull): Stopper is twisted to open or close. May also be activated by pushing.
- Plunger Style: A lever located on the overflow plate will have an internal plunger that stops the water flow.
Once you’ve identified your drain type, research the specific removal instructions for that type before proceeding. Many online resources provide detailed step-by-step guides and videos. Having the right tools and understanding the correct procedure will ensure a smooth and damage-free drain removal process.
What’s the best way to loosen a stuck bathtub drain?
The best way to loosen a stuck bathtub drain usually involves a combination of penetrating oil, heat, and the appropriate tool, such as a drain wrench or internal pipe wrench. Start by applying penetrating oil liberally around the drain flange, giving it time to work. Then, try using heat from a hairdryer to expand the metal slightly. Finally, use the appropriate wrench to carefully apply torque, attempting to unscrew the drain. Avoid excessive force to prevent damaging the drain or the tub.
A stuck bathtub drain is often caused by mineral buildup, corrosion, or dried sealant. Penetrating oil, like WD-40 or a specialized plumbing lubricant, can dissolve rust and loosen the grip of mineral deposits. Allow the oil ample time to penetrate – sometimes several hours or even overnight – before attempting to remove the drain. Reapply the oil periodically during the soaking process. The use of heat is a complementary step. A hairdryer (not a heat gun, which can damage the tub) gently warms the metal, causing it to expand slightly, which can break the bond that’s holding the drain in place. Take care not to overheat the tub material itself, especially if it’s acrylic or fiberglass.
Choosing the right tool is critical. A drain wrench (also known as a bathtub drain removal tool) is specifically designed to grip the crossbars inside the drain opening. If the crossbars are broken or heavily corroded, an internal pipe wrench might be necessary. This type of wrench expands inside the drain pipe, providing a stronger grip. When applying torque, be patient and use a steady, controlled force. Jerking or sudden movements can strip the drain or damage the surrounding plumbing. If the drain still refuses to budge, consider repeating the oiling and heating process or consulting a professional plumber. Trying to force the drain could lead to further complications and costly repairs.
What should I do if the drain is corroded or broken?
If the bathtub drain is severely corroded or broken, you’ll likely need to employ more aggressive removal techniques or call a professional plumber. Avoid forcing anything excessively, as you risk further damaging the tub or plumbing.
For corroded drains, penetrating oil is your best friend. Apply a generous amount of penetrating oil, like WD-40 Specialist Penetrant or Liquid Wrench, to the drain flange and the surrounding area where it connects to the drain pipe below. Let it soak for at least several hours, or even overnight, to help loosen the corrosion. After soaking, try using a drain removal tool again, applying steady and even pressure. If the drain still won’t budge, you can try gently tapping around the flange with a hammer and a punch or dull chisel to help break the corrosion bonds. Be extremely careful not to damage the tub’s finish.
If the drain is broken, particularly if the crossbars that the drain removal tool grips are gone, you might have to resort to a more destructive method. One option is to use a pipe wrench or locking pliers to grip the inside of the drain and try to unscrew it. Another method involves using a cold chisel and hammer to carefully break the drain into smaller pieces. Work slowly and meticulously, aiming to break the drain apart without damaging the tub itself. Again, extreme caution is needed to protect the tub’s surface. If you are uncomfortable with these more aggressive methods, it is best to call a licensed plumber to handle the situation. They have specialized tools and experience in dealing with difficult drain removals.
And that’s all there is to it! Hopefully, you’ve successfully removed your bathtub drain and are one step closer to a sparkling clean tub or a much-needed replacement. Thanks for following along, and we hope you found this guide helpful. Feel free to stop by again for more DIY tips and tricks!