Putting in a bath drain could look like a frightening process, however with the fitting instruments and just a little little bit of know-how, it may be a comparatively simple course of. Whether or not you are a seasoned DIY fanatic or an entire 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, chances are 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 components down the drain. Clear the threads on the bathtub and the drain physique utilizing a moist 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 includes assembling the varied parts, 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 stop leaks. Press the meeting firmly into place and safe it utilizing the locking nut or bolts offered. Tighten them progressively 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 includes 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. Check 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 you have the required 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, rigorously carry 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 would have to be eliminated earlier than you’ll be able to entry the drain meeting. The overflow plate is normally 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 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 may be 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 cosy 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 fasten the overflow plate to the bathtub.
Tighten the overflow plate screws till they’re cosy. 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 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 an important step in putting in your tub drain. It prevents water from overflowing the bathtub and flooding your lavatory. Observe 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 totally 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 will probably 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 rigorously tighten the nut that secures the overflow tube to the bathtub drain. Don’t overtighten, as this might injury the parts. Observe the producer’s directions for the beneficial tightening torque.
As soon as the overflow tube is linked, it’s important to check its performance. Run water into the bathtub and examine for any leaks across the connection. If you happen to discover any leaks, tighten the nut barely or modify 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 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 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 cosy, 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 further layer of sealant offers extra safety towards 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. If you happen to discover any water seeping, retighten the drain meeting nuts and examine for any cracks or injury to the seals.
Useful Suggestions 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 could actually intervene with the drain meeting’s motion.
– Tighten the drain meeting nuts evenly to forestall uneven distribution of strain.
– If you happen to’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 Check
Observe these complete steps to make sure a totally useful drain meeting:
- Collect Supplies: Put together a bucket or massive container, pliers, and a flashlight.
- Fill Tub: Steadily 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: Look ahead to 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 rapidly and effectively.
Further Suggestions:
Checking for Hidden Leaks
If you happen to 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, chances are you’ll want to regulate the linkage or change the stopper. Seek the advice of the producer’s directions for particular adjustment procedures.
By totally testing the drain meeting, you’ll be able to guarantee a leak-free and correctly functioning lavatory tub drain system.
Gasket and Washer Dimension
Make sure the gasket and washer are the right measurement on your tub drain. An incorrect measurement could cause leaks or forestall the drain from sealing correctly.
Cross-Threaded Drain Physique
If the drain physique is cross-threaded throughout set up, it could actually trigger leaks or injury to the bath. Thread the drain physique rigorously and ensure it’s safe with out overtightening.
Unfastened Tub Drain Meeting
A unfastened tub drain meeting could cause leaks or permit water to seep out across the base of the drain. Tighten the drain meeting securely, utilizing a wrench or pliers if obligatory.
Clogged Drain Gap
A clogged drain gap can forestall 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 forestall the drain from closing correctly, resulting in leaks or sluggish drainage. Change the drain stopper with a brand new one whether it is cracked, worn, or lacking components.
Corroded Drain Elements
Over time, tub drain parts can turn out to be corroded on account of publicity to water and cleansing chemical substances. This corrosion can weaken the parts and trigger leaks. Change corroded parts with new ones to make sure the drain features correctly.
Incorrect Drain Slope
The drain ought to have a slight slope in 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 Mandatory Instruments and Supplies
Earlier than starting, guarantee you have got all the required instruments and supplies. This features a new drain package, 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.
Shield 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 substances.
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 clean 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 injury to the parts.
Check the Drain
Activate the water provide and permit the bathtub to fill. Examine for any leaks across the drain and make changes as obligatory.
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 hold 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 examine the drain meeting for leaks. Fill the bathtub with water and observe the drain for any drips or moisture. If you happen to discover any leaks, tighten the slip nut or change 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 sizzling 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 cosy. 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 change 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 will injury the drain meeting.
Utilizing Drain Cleaner
If different strategies fail to clear the clog, use a industrial drain cleaner. Observe the producer’s directions rigorously. Keep away from utilizing drain cleaners too regularly, 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 could actually enter the drainpipe. Clear the strainer often to take away any gathered hair.
Calling a Plumber
If you happen to 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
If you happen to’re not snug 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 optimistic opinions. Ask for referrals from buddies 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 glad with the estimate, schedule a time for the set up. Make sure you’re obtainable to present the plumber entry to your lavatory.
4. Put together the Toilet:
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 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 linked 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’re going to additionally examine the world for any leaks or different points.
7. Cleanup:
The plumber will clear up the work space, leaving your lavatory as they discovered it.
8. Guarantee and Assure:
{Most professional} plumbers supply warranties on their work. Make sure you perceive the phrases of the guarantee and hold the documentation for future reference.
9. Fee:
As soon as the set up is full and also you’re glad, pay the plumber in keeping with the agreed-upon estimate.
10. Suggestions 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 Opinions | Examine on-line opinions 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 providers supplied. |
| 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’ll be able to be sure 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’ll be able to 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 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 cosy.
- Check 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 have to be changed. These embrace:
- Leaks across the drain
- Sluggish draining
- Clogs which might 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 snug working with plumbing, it’s best to rent a certified plumber to do the job.
How a lot does it price to switch a bath drain?
The fee to switch a bath drain will differ relying on the kind of drain you select and the labor prices in your space. Nonetheless, you’ll be able to anticipate to pay between $50 and $150 for all the challenge.
