Putting in a bath drain could appear to be a frightening process, however with the appropriate instruments and a 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 may 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 that will leak in the course of 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 elements down the drain. Clear the threads on the bathtub and the drain physique utilizing a moist fabric 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 harm the bathtub or the drain.
Making 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 assorted elements, together with the drain flange, washer, and drain physique, as per the producer’s directions. Be sure that all connections are tight and safe to forestall 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 forestall leaks. Press the meeting firmly into place and safe it utilizing the locking nut or bolts supplied. 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 sure that the stopper suits 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, be sure to 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 often 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 should must 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’ll have entry to the drain meeting. The drain meeting is often 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 may must observe these steps:
Making ready the Tub Drain Space
Begin by eradicating the previous tub drain meeting if there may be one in place. Clear the drain opening and surrounding space completely 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 in opposition to the bathtub. Watch out to not overtighten, as this will harm 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 will 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 forestall water from leaking out.
Caulk across the base of the drain meeting and overflow plate with silicone sealant to forestall any leaks. Enable the sealant to dry utterly earlier than utilizing the bathtub.
Congratulations! You’ve got 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 suits snugly.
2. Align the Gasket
Find the gasket that got here with the overflow tube. Place it over the top of the tube that might 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 harm the elements. Comply with the producer’s directions for the beneficial tightening torque.
As soon as the overflow tube is related, it’s important to check its performance. Run water into the bathtub and examine for any leaks across the connection. In case you 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. Totally Seal the Drain Meeting
To make sure a watertight seal and forestall leaks, it’s essential to completely 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, making certain it suits snugly across the putty ring. The gasket acts as an extra barrier to forestall water from seeping by.
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 gives further safety in opposition to water leakage.
e. Examine and Retighten
As soon as the drain meeting is put in, fill the bathtub with water and examine for any leaks. In case you discover any water seeping, retighten the drain meeting nuts and examine for any cracks or harm to the seals.
Useful Ideas for Sealing:
– Use high-quality plumber’s putty and rubber gaskets to make sure sturdiness and forestall leaks.
– Keep away from utilizing an excessive amount of putty, as it will possibly intrude with the drain meeting’s motion.
– Tighten the drain meeting nuts evenly to forestall uneven distribution of stress.
– In case you’re not sure about any steps, seek the advice of an expert plumber for steerage.
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 totally purposeful drain meeting:
- Collect Supplies: Put together a bucket or giant container, pliers, and a flashlight.
- Fill Tub: Progressively fill the bath with water to a number of inches above the overflow drain.
- Examine Overflow: Examine 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: Anticipate a number of minutes and thoroughly 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 rapidly and effectively.
Further Ideas:
Checking for Hidden Leaks
In case you suspect a hidden leak, flip off the water provide and use a flashlight to examine the drainpipe, joints, and tub drain from beneath. 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 completely testing the drain meeting, you possibly can guarantee a leak-free and correctly functioning toilet tub drain system.
Gasket and Washer Dimension
Make sure the gasket and washer are the right dimension in your tub drain. An incorrect dimension 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 will possibly trigger leaks or harm to the bath. Thread the drain physique fastidiously and ensure it’s safe with out overtightening.
Unfastened Tub Drain Meeting
A unfastened 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 elements.
Corroded Drain Elements
Over time, tub drain elements can change into corroded because of publicity to water and cleansing chemical compounds. This corrosion can weaken the elements and trigger leaks. Exchange corroded elements with new ones to make sure the drain capabilities correctly.
Incorrect Drain Slope
The drain ought to have a slight slope in the direction of the drain gap to permit water to stream 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’ve got 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 stream 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 forestall 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 superb 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 Elements
Use an adjustable wrench to tighten the drain flange nut and journey lever nut securely. Keep away from overtightening to forestall harm to the elements.
Take a look at the Drain
Activate the water provide and permit the bathtub to fill. Examine for any leaks across the drain and make changes as needed.
Clear Up
Take away any particles or extra plumber’s putty and eliminate 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 maintain your tub drain functioning correctly and forestall 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 resolution month-to-month to dissolve any buildup.
Checking for Leaks
Periodically examine the drain meeting for leaks. Fill the bathtub with water and observe the drain for any drips or moisture. In case you discover any leaks, tighten the slip nut or exchange the O-ring.
Cleansing the Drain Plug
Clear the drain plug often to take away cleaning soap scum and particles. Take away the plug from the drain and soak it in a combination of scorching water and dish cleaning soap. Use a brush to clean 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 will harm 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, strive utilizing a drain snake or plunger to take away the obstruction. Keep away from utilizing chemical drain cleaners, as they’ll harm 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 continuously, as they are often corrosive.
Stopping Hair Clogs
To stop hair clogs, set up a hair strainer within the drain. These strainers catch hair earlier than it will possibly enter the drainpipe. Clear the strainer often to take away any gathered hair.
Calling a Plumber
In case you 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
In case you’re not comfy tackling the bathtub drain set up your self, hiring an expert plumber is the best 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 pals or neighbors or examine 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 happy with the estimate, schedule a time for the set up. Make sure you’re accessible to provide the plumber entry to your toilet.
4. Put together the Rest room:
Clear the lavatory 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 prevailing drainpipe, take away the previous drain, and set up the brand new one. They will make sure the drain is correctly sealed and related to the plumbing system.
6. Testing and Inspection:
After set up, the plumber will take a look at the drain to make sure it is working appropriately. They will additionally examine the world 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 maintain the documentation for future reference.
9. Cost:
As soon as the set up is full and also you’re happy, 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. |
| Examine References | Ask for references from earlier shoppers to gauge their expertise and high quality of labor. |
| Take into account Expertise | Search for plumbers with particular expertise in tub drain installations. |
| Learn Evaluations | Examine on-line critiques to assemble insights from different prospects’ experiences. |
| Get A number of Estimates | Acquire quotes from a number of plumbers to check prices and companies provided. |
| Ask Questions | Do not hesitate to make clear any considerations or ask for detailed explanations in the course of the session. |
Find out how to Set up a Tub Drain
Putting in a bath drain is a simple process 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 appropriately.
- Collect your supplies. You have to 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 unfastened, 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. This may assist to create a watertight seal and forestall leaks.
- Insert the brand new tub drain. Line up the drain with the outlet 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. Examine 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 must be changed. These embrace:
- Leaks across the drain
- Gradual draining
- Clogs which can be troublesome to take away
- A broken or lacking drain stopper
Can I set up a bath drain myself?
Sure, putting in a bath drain is a comparatively easy process that may be accomplished in a couple of minutes. Nonetheless, in case you are not comfy working with plumbing, it’s best to rent a certified plumber to do the job.
How a lot does it price to exchange a bath drain?
The fee to exchange a bath drain will differ relying on the kind of drain you select and the labor prices in your space. Nonetheless, you possibly can anticipate to pay between $50 and $150 for the whole undertaking.
