The Ultimate Guide to Replacing a Tub Drain Stopper: A Step-by-Step DIY


The Ultimate Guide to Replacing a Tub Drain Stopper: A Step-by-Step DIY

A bath drain stopper is a tool that plugs the drain gap in a bath, stopping water from draining out. It’s sometimes product of rubber or plastic and is inserted into the drain gap by hand. Drain stoppers can be found in a wide range of styles and sizes to suit various kinds of drains.

Changing a bathtub drain stopper is a comparatively easy process that may be accomplished in a couple of minutes. Nonetheless, it is very important select the proper substitute stopper in your drain, as not all stoppers are created equal. In case you are uncertain which sort of stopper to buy, you’ll be able to seek the advice of with a plumbing skilled.

After you have the proper substitute stopper, observe these steps to switch the outdated one:

  1. Take away the outdated stopper by pulling it out of the drain gap.
  2. Clear the drain gap with a material or sponge to take away any particles.
  3. Insert the brand new stopper into the drain gap.
  4. Press down on the stopper to create a seal.
  5. Take a look at the stopper by filling the bath with water and checking for leaks.

By following these steps, you’ll be able to simply substitute a bathtub drain stopper and preserve your bathtub functioning correctly.

1. Measurement

The scale of a bathtub drain stopper is a vital consideration when changing it. The stopper should be the proper measurement to suit snugly within the drain gap with a view to create a watertight seal. If the stopper is just too small, it will be unable to successfully plug the drain and water will leak out. If the stopper is just too giant, it won’t match into the drain gap and will likely be troublesome to take away.

  • Measure the diameter of the drain gap: Earlier than buying a brand new drain stopper, it is very important measure the diameter of the drain gap. This can be certain that you buy a stopper that’s the right measurement.
  • Examine the form of the drain gap: Some drain holes are spherical, whereas others are sq. or oval. Make sure to buy a stopper that’s the similar form because the drain gap.
  • Think about the kind of stopper: Pop-up stoppers and lift-and-turn stoppers can be found in a wide range of sizes. Make sure to select a stopper that’s the right measurement for the kind of stopper you’ve got.
  • Take a look at the stopper earlier than putting in it: After you have bought a brand new drain stopper, check it earlier than putting in it. Insert the stopper into the drain gap and fill the bath with water. Examine for leaks across the stopper. If there are any leaks, alter the stopper till it suits snugly and there are not any leaks.

By following the following pointers, you’ll be able to be certain that you select the proper measurement drain stopper in your bathtub.

2. Sort

In relation to changing a bathtub drain stopper, the kind of stopper you select is a vital consideration. There are two essential varieties of tub drain stoppers: pop-up stoppers and lift-and-turn stoppers. Every sort has its personal benefits and drawbacks, so it is necessary to decide on the one which most closely fits your wants.

  • Pop-up stoppers are the most typical sort of tub drain stopper. They’re straightforward to make use of and might be opened and closed with only a push of a button. Nonetheless, pop-up stoppers might be tougher to wash than lift-and-turn stoppers, and they’re extra more likely to turn into clogged with hair and cleaning soap scum.
  • Elevate-and-turn stoppers are a extra sturdy sort of tub drain stopper. They’re product of metallic and are much less more likely to clog than pop-up stoppers. Nonetheless, lift-and-turn stoppers might be tougher to make use of, as they require you to raise the stopper after which flip it to open or shut it.

In the end, the most effective sort of tub drain stopper for you’ll rely in your particular person wants and preferences. In case you are on the lookout for a stopper that’s straightforward to make use of and clear, a pop-up stopper is an efficient possibility. In case you are on the lookout for a stopper that’s sturdy and fewer more likely to clog, a lift-and-turn stopper is a better option.

3. Materials

The fabric of a bathtub drain stopper is a vital consideration when changing it. The fabric will have an effect on the sturdiness, longevity, and ease of use of the stopper.

The commonest supplies used for tub drain stoppers are rubber, plastic, and metallic. Rubber stoppers are the least costly and commonest sort. They’re straightforward to put in and take away, however they don’t seem to be as sturdy as plastic or metallic stoppers. Plastic stoppers are extra sturdy than rubber stoppers, however they are often tougher to put in and take away. Metallic stoppers are essentially the most sturdy and long-lasting, however they’re additionally the most costly.

When selecting a fabric for a bathtub drain stopper, it is very important think about the next components:

  • Sturdiness: How lengthy would you like the stopper to final? Rubber stoppers are the least sturdy, whereas metallic stoppers are essentially the most sturdy.
  • Ease of use: How straightforward would you like the stopper to be to put in and take away? Rubber stoppers are the simplest to put in and take away, whereas metallic stoppers are essentially the most troublesome.
  • Price: How a lot do you wish to spend on a stopper? Rubber stoppers are the least costly, whereas metallic stoppers are the most costly.

After you have thought-about these components, you’ll be able to select the fabric for a bathtub drain stopper that’s best for you.

FAQs on Easy methods to Exchange a Tub Drain Stopper

Changing a bathtub drain stopper is an easy process that may be accomplished in a couple of minutes. Nonetheless, there are a couple of widespread questions that individuals have in regards to the course of.

Query 1: What’s one of the best ways to take away a caught drain stopper?

Reply: If the drain stopper is caught, you’ll be able to strive utilizing a pair of pliers to softly twist it backwards and forwards till it loosens. You can even strive utilizing a vinegar and baking soda answer to dissolve any mineral deposits that could be inflicting the stopper to stay.

Query 2: What’s the greatest sort of drain stopper to purchase?

Reply: One of the best sort of drain stopper to purchase is dependent upon your particular person wants and preferences. Pop-up stoppers are the most typical sort, and they’re straightforward to make use of and clear. Elevate-and-turn stoppers are extra sturdy and fewer more likely to clog, however they are often tougher to make use of. In the end, one of the best ways to decide on a drain stopper is to think about your personal wants and preferences.

Query 3: How typically ought to I substitute my drain stopper?

Reply: Drain stoppers needs to be changed each few years, or extra typically in the event that they turn into broken or clogged. When you discover that your drain stopper will not be working correctly, it’s best to switch it as quickly as doable.

Query 4: Can I set up a drain stopper myself?

Reply: Sure, putting in a drain stopper is an easy process that may be accomplished in a couple of minutes. Nonetheless, if you’re not snug working with plumbing, it’s best to name a plumber to put in the drain stopper for you.

Query 5: What are some ideas for stopping drain stoppers from clogging?

Reply: Listed here are a couple of ideas for stopping drain stoppers from clogging:

  • Use a drain display screen to catch hair and different particles.
  • Clear your drain stopper frequently with a vinegar and baking soda answer.
  • Keep away from pouring grease or oil down the drain.

Query 6: What ought to I do if my drain stopper is leaking?

Reply: In case your drain stopper is leaking, it is very important substitute it as quickly as doable. A leaking drain stopper can waste water and trigger harm to your rest room ground.

By following the following pointers, you’ll be able to preserve your tub drain stopper working correctly and stop pricey repairs.

For extra info on methods to substitute a bathtub drain stopper, please seek the advice of a professional plumber.

Ideas for Changing a Tub Drain Stopper

Changing a bathtub drain stopper is an easy process that may be accomplished in a couple of minutes. Nonetheless, there are a couple of ideas that may assist you make sure that the job is finished appropriately and that the brand new stopper will perform correctly.

Tip 1: Select the proper measurement and kind of stopper. Tub drain stoppers are available in a wide range of sizes and kinds, so it is very important select the one that’s proper in your bathtub. The scale of the stopper ought to match the diameter of the drain gap, and the kind of stopper needs to be appropriate with the drain mechanism.

Tip 2: Take away the outdated stopper fastidiously. Earlier than you’ll be able to set up the brand new stopper, it’s worthwhile to take away the outdated one. To do that, gently pull up on the stopper to detach it from the drain. If the stopper is caught, you’ll be able to strive utilizing a pair of pliers to softly twist it backwards and forwards till it loosens.

Tip 3: Clear the drain gap. As soon as the outdated stopper is eliminated, take a couple of minutes to wash the drain gap. Take away any hair, cleaning soap scum, or different particles that will have gathered. This can assist to make sure that the brand new stopper will match snugly and create a watertight seal.

Tip 4: Set up the brand new stopper. To put in the brand new stopper, merely insert it into the drain gap and press down till it’s seated. Guarantee that the stopper is aligned appropriately and that it’s making a watertight seal.

Tip 5: Take a look at the stopper. As soon as the brand new stopper is put in, check it to be sure that it’s working correctly. Fill the bath with water after which shut the stopper. The water mustn’t leak out of the drain.

By following the following pointers, you’ll be able to be certain that you substitute your tub drain stopper appropriately and that it’ll perform correctly for years to come back.

Conclusion

Changing a bathtub drain stopper is an easy process that may be accomplished in a couple of minutes. Nonetheless, it is very important select the proper measurement and kind of stopper in your bathtub, and to observe the steps fastidiously to make sure a watertight seal. By following the guidelines outlined on this article, you’ll be able to substitute your tub drain stopper shortly and simply, and preserve your bathtub functioning correctly for years to come back.

In case you are not snug working with plumbing, or if you happen to encounter any issues whereas changing the drain stopper, it’s best to name a professional plumber for help.