How to Replace a Bathtub Waste Plug

A bathtub that won't hold water is a real pain, isn't it? You're all set for a nice long soak, only to find the water slowly draining away. It’s usually down to the stopper, and thankfully, fixing it is often a job you can do yourself. You don't always need to call in a plumber. This guide will walk you through how to replace a bathtub waste plug, making sure your tub stays full for that much-needed soak.

Key Takeaways

• Different types of bathtub stoppers exist, like toe-touch, pop-up, and lift-and-turn, each with a slightly different removal method.

• You'll need a few basic tools, including a tub drain wrench (also called a dumbbell tool), pliers, and a screwdriver, along with plumber's putty.

• Removing the old drain fitting involves unscrewing it from below the tub, often with the help of a tub drain wrench, and cleaning away old putty.

• When installing the new stopper, apply fresh plumber's putty around the lip of the new drain fitting to create a watertight seal.

• After installation, test the seal by filling the tub with water and checking for any leaks over an hour.

Understanding Your Bathtub Drain Stopper

So, your bathtub isn't holding water like it used to? It's a common problem, and often, the culprit is right there in the drain. Before you start thinking about calling in the big guns (a plumber, that is), let's get to grips with what's actually going on down there. Understanding the different parts and why they might be acting up is the first step to a nice, long soak without any leaks.

Bathtub drains aren't all the same, and the stopper mechanism can vary quite a bit. Knowing which type you have is key to figuring out how to fix it. Here are some of the most common ones you'll find:

• Pop-up Stopper: These are often controlled by a lever on the overflow plate. You flip the lever, and a mechanism inside the drain pipe lifts or lowers a stopper.

• Lift-and-Turn Stopper: You'll recognise these by the small knob on top. You lift the knob and turn it to open the drain, and push down and turn to close it.

• Push-Pull Stopper: Similar to the lift-and-turn, these have a knob, but you simply push down to close and pull up to open.

• Toe-Touch Stopper: These are the modern ones. You just press down with your toe to close the drain and press again to open it. They're spring-loaded.

Why Your Stopper Might Need Replacing

There are a few reasons why your stopper might be giving you grief. Sometimes it's just age and wear and tear. The rubber seals can get old, hard, and brittle, meaning they can't create a good seal anymore. Other times, the metal parts can corrode or bend, especially if you've got hard water. If your stopper is cracked, or just looks really grimy and beyond cleaning, it's probably time for a new one. A worn-out stopper is the most common reason a tub won't hold water.

How Drain Assemblies Work

Most bathtub drain assemblies work on a pretty simple idea. There's a part that sits in the drain opening to block the water, and this is connected to something that lets you open and close it. For pop-up types, a rod goes from the overflow plate down to the stopper. When you move the lever, it pushes or pulls this rod, opening or closing the drain. For other types, like the lift-and-turn or toe-touch, the mechanism is mostly contained within the drain fitting itself. It's usually a simple screw or cam system that moves the stopper up and down.

It's worth noting that sometimes the issue isn't the stopper itself, but how it's adjusted. The rod connecting the stopper to the lever might be too long or too short, meaning the stopper isn't seating properly. This can stop the tub from holding water, even if the stopper looks fine.

Gathering Your Tools And Materials

Alright, before we get our hands dirty with the actual replacement, let's make sure we've got everything we need. It's always better to have it all ready to go so you don't have to stop halfway through and dash to the shops. Trust me, I've been there, and it's never fun.

Essential Tools For The Job

To tackle this job, you'll want a few specific bits of kit. Having the right tools makes a world of difference, turning a potentially frustrating task into something quite manageable. You'll definitely need a tub drain wrench, sometimes called a dumbbell tool. This is specifically designed to grip the inside of the drain fitting and help you unscrew it. You'll also want some channel-type pliers or an adjustable wrench for turning the drain wrench. A putty knife is handy for scraping away old sealant, and a non-scratch scouring pad will help clean up the drain opening without damaging your tub.

Necessary Materials For Replacement

When it comes to materials, the main things you'll need are plumber's putty and your new drain stopper assembly. It's really important to use fresh plumber's putty; old, dried-out putty won't create a good seal. You can pick up plumber's putty at most hardware stores. Make sure you get a good quality one that's designed for plumbing use. You might also want some rags or paper towels to clean up any mess.

Choosing The Right Replacement Parts

This is where you need to be a little bit careful. Bathtub drains come in different sizes and styles, so it's a good idea to know what you're replacing. If you're unsure, you can often buy a universal drain fitting kit that can be adjusted to fit most standard tubs. This takes the guesswork out of it. When you're at the shop, have a look at the different types of stoppers available – toe-touch, pop-up, lift-and-turn – and choose one that suits your preference. It's also worth checking if your new stopper comes with all the necessary parts, like a new gasket, or if you need to buy those separately. Getting the right drain fitting now will save you a lot of hassle later.

It's always a good idea to take a photo of your current drain setup before you head to the store. This way, you can show it to a sales assistant if you're unsure about what to buy.

Here's a quick rundown of what you'll likely need:

• Tub drain wrench (dumbbell tool)

• Channel-type pliers or adjustable wrench

• Putty knife

• Non-scratch scouring pad

• Plumber's putty

• New bathtub drain stopper assembly

• Rags or paper towels

Removing The Old Bathtub Waste Plug

Right then, let's get this old plug out. It might seem a bit daunting, but honestly, it’s usually pretty straightforward. The first thing you’ll need to do is get the stopper itself out of the drain. There are a few different kinds, so how you do this can vary a bit.

How To Remove Different Stopper Mechanisms

Most stoppers are designed to come out without too much fuss. For a simple push-pull or lift-and-turn type, you might just need to unscrew the knob on top. Sometimes, there’s a small screw underneath that needs a screwdriver. For toe-touch stoppers, a simple twist usually does the trick. If you’ve got a trip-lever or pop-up style, it’s a bit more involved. You’ll typically need to take off the cover plate on the overflow drain, and then carefully pull out the linkage rod. It can get a bit messy with old gunk, so have a bucket or some old rags ready.

Unscrewing The Existing Drain Fitting

Once the stopper is out of the way, you’ll see the main drain fitting inside the tub. This is usually the trickiest part. You’ll likely need a special tool called a tub drain wrench, sometimes called a dumbbell tool. These have different ends to fit into the crosshairs inside the drain opening. You insert the tool, then use some pliers or an adjustable wrench to turn the fitting counterclockwise. It’s basically unscrewing it from the pipework underneath the tub. If yours doesn't have those crosshairs, you might need a different type of tool, like a drain extractor. It’s worth getting the right tool for the job to avoid damaging your tub, and you can find them at most hardware stores. It’s a good idea to measure your drain opening first to make sure you get the right size drain assembly.

Dealing With Stubborn Drains

Sometimes, these old fittings are really stuck. If it won’t budge with reasonable force, don’t keep forcing it, as you could damage the tub or the pipes. It might be that the fitting is corroded or cross-threaded. In these cases, it’s best to stop and call a plumber. They have more powerful tools and the experience to deal with really stubborn drains without causing more problems. It’s better to pay a professional than to end up with a much bigger, more expensive repair job.

Remember, plumbing can sometimes throw up surprises. If you're not comfortable with any step, or if things aren't coming apart easily, it's always okay to call in a professional. They've seen it all before and can save you a lot of hassle.

Preparing The Drain For A New Stopper

Right then, you've managed to wrestle the old plug out. Good job! Now, before we get that shiny new one in, we need to make sure the drain area is prepped and ready. Think of it like getting the stage ready for the main act. This bit might not seem as exciting as the actual replacement, but it's super important for making sure your new stopper actually works and doesn't leak like a sieve.

Cleaning Away Old Plumber's Putty

When you took out the old drain fitting, you probably noticed a ring of gunk around the opening. That's likely old plumber's putty. It's a sticky, dough-like substance that plumbers use to create a watertight seal between the drain fitting and the bathtub itself. Over time, it can harden and get a bit grimy. You need to get rid of all of it. Grab a putty knife or even an old credit card and gently scrape away as much as you can. If it's really stubborn, a bit of warm water and a non-abrasive scrub pad should do the trick. Just be careful not to scratch the surface of your tub. A clean surface is key for the new putty to stick properly. You can find putty knives at most hardware stores if you don't have one lying around.

Checking The Gasket Underneath

Once the putty is gone, take a peek down into the drain opening. You might see a rubber or plastic ring, known as a gasket, sitting on the underside of the drain flange where it meets the tub. This gasket is another part of the sealing system. Give it a quick once-over. Is it cracked, brittle, or misshapen? If it looks like it's seen better days, it's a good idea to replace it while you're at it. You can usually pick up replacement gaskets when you buy your new stopper. It's much easier to do this now than to discover a leak later and have to take everything apart again.

Ensuring A Clean Surface

Finally, give the whole area a good wipe down with a clean cloth. You want a smooth, dry surface for the new plumber's putty to adhere to. Any dust, soap scum, or leftover bits of old putty can create gaps, and that's exactly what leads to leaks. So, take a moment to really get it clean. It might seem like a small step, but a clean drain opening is the secret to a watertight seal. If you're unsure about the type of stopper you have, checking out a guide on bathtub drain stopper types can be helpful.

Don't rush this part. A little extra time spent cleaning now will save you a lot of hassle down the line. It's all about getting that perfect seal.

Installing Your New Bathtub Waste Plug

Right then, you've got the old one out and the area all spick and span. Now for the exciting bit – getting the new one in! It’s not too tricky, honestly, just a bit of care needed to make sure it seals up properly.

Applying Fresh Plumber's Putty

This is where that plumber's putty comes in handy again. You want to take a decent lump of it, about the thickness of a pencil, and roll it into a long sausage shape. Then, carefully wrap this all the way around the underside of the lip of your new drain fitting. Make sure it’s a continuous ring, no gaps, so it can create a good seal against the tub.

Securing The New Drain Fitting

Now, gently place your new drain fitting into the hole from inside the tub. You’ll need to get it started on the threads of the pipework underneath. Slowly turn the fitting clockwise by hand. You should feel it catch the threads. Be really careful not to cross-thread it, as that can cause all sorts of problems. Once it’s started, you might need to use your tub drain wrench or some pliers to tighten it up. Just a quarter turn past hand-tight is usually enough. You don't want to overtighten it, as that can damage the tub or squeeze all the putty out from under the seal.

Fitting Different Stopper Styles

Once the main drain fitting is in place, it’s time for the stopper itself. If you have a pop-up or a lift-and-turn type, these usually screw directly into the drain fitting you just installed. Just give them a twist until they feel snug. For other types, like a toe-touch stopper, you might need to attach a linkage first, following the specific instructions that came with your new stopper. It’s always a good idea to check the manufacturer’s guide for your particular model, as they can vary a bit. You can find a good range of plumbing products if you need to replace any other parts.

Remember, the goal here is a watertight seal. The putty and the gasket underneath work together to stop any water from escaping where it shouldn't. Take your time with this step.

Stopper Type	Installation Notes
Pop-up / Lift-and-Turn	Screws directly into the drain fitting.
Toe-Touch	May require linkage attachment before screwing in.
Flip-Lever	Plunger goes into overflow; basket screws in first.

Testing For A Watertight Seal

Right then, you've gone and fitted your new drain plug. That's brilliant! But before you go filling the tub for a well-deserved soak, we really need to make sure everything's sealed up properly. Nobody wants a surprise leak, do they? It’s a pretty straightforward check, but it’s the most important bit to get right.

How To Check For Leaks

First things first, let's get the stopper in place. Make sure it's seated correctly. Then, you'll want to block the drain. You can use the new stopper itself for this, or if you're being extra cautious, a good old-fashioned stopper plug works a treat. Now, start filling the tub with a bit of water. Don't go mad and fill it right to the brim just yet; a few inches will do for now. Keep an eye on the area around the drain fitting, both inside the tub and, if you can get to it, underneath the bath. Look for any drips or trickles. If you see any water escaping, it means the seal isn't quite right yet. This might be because the plumber's putty hasn't fully set, or perhaps the fitting isn't as tight as it needs to be. You might need to gently tighten the drain fitting a little more, but be careful not to overtighten it, as this can sometimes cause more problems than it solves. If it’s a persistent drip, you might have to drain the tub again and check the putty or gasket.

Allowing The Putty To Set

Plumber's putty needs a bit of time to do its job properly. While it creates a seal straight away, it really needs to cure a bit before it's fully watertight under pressure. Most putties will set reasonably well within a few hours, but it's best to leave it for at least 12 to 24 hours if you can. This gives it a chance to harden up and form a really solid barrier against leaks. So, resist the temptation to fill the tub completely straight after fitting; patience is key here!

Troubleshooting If Water Drains

If you've run the test and noticed water slowly disappearing, don't panic. It's usually a simple fix. The most common reason is that the stopper itself isn't creating a perfect seal. This can happen if there's a bit of hair or debris caught around the drain opening, preventing the stopper from sitting flush. Give the drain a quick clean out. If that doesn't help, the stopper mechanism might need a slight adjustment. Sometimes, the linkage that connects the stopper to the lever can be a bit out of whack. You might need to adjust the height of the plunger slightly. For most pop-up stoppers, there's a threaded rod with nuts that you can turn to raise or lower the plunger. A little tweak can often make all the difference. If you've tried these things and it's still draining, it might be worth checking the seal on the stopper itself, or even considering if the old drain fitting was damaged when you removed it, which could affect the new seal. If you're struggling to get a good seal, you might need to revisit removing the old drain fitting and ensure the threads are clean and undamaged.

Ensuring your bathroom is completely waterproof is super important. We check all the tricky spots to make sure no water can escape where it shouldn't. Want to see how we guarantee a perfect seal? Visit our website to learn more!

All Done!

So there you have it! Replacing your bathtub waste plug might seem a bit daunting at first, but as we've seen, it's usually a pretty straightforward job. With the right tools and a bit of patience, you can get your tub holding water again in no time. Remember to take your time, double-check your work, and don't be afraid to call in a professional if you get stuck. Happy bathing!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common types of bathtub drain stoppers?

You'll often find a few main kinds of stoppers. There are 'toe-touch' ones you push with your foot, 'flip-it' types with a little lever, 'push-pull' ones you lift and twist, and 'lift-and-turn' ones that need a bit more twisting. Some older tubs might have a 'trip-lever' or 'pop-up' stopper that uses a lever on the overflow pipe.

Why would I need to replace my bathtub drain stopper?

Your stopper might need replacing if it's old and worn out, doesn't seal properly anymore (meaning your bathwater drains away too quickly), or if it's broken and won't open or close. Sometimes, they just get really grimy and are hard to clean, making a replacement a good idea.

What tools do I need to change a bathtub drain stopper?

You'll likely need a few basic things. A screwdriver is often useful, especially for stoppers with levers. You'll definitely want a tub drain wrench (sometimes called a dumbbell tool) to unscrew the main drain fitting. Pliers can also come in handy. And don't forget plumber's putty to create a watertight seal for the new drain.

How do I remove the old drain fitting?

First, remove the stopper itself, as the method varies depending on the type. Then, insert your tub drain wrench into the drain opening, making sure it fits snugly around the crosshairs inside. Use pliers or an adjustable wrench to turn the drain fitting counter-clockwise. It should unscrew from the pipe below the tub.

How do I make sure the new stopper creates a good seal?

Before putting the new drain fitting in, roll some plumber's putty into a long, thin 'snake' about the thickness of a pencil. Press this putty all around the underside of the new drain's lip. When you screw the new fitting in, the putty will spread out and seal against the tub surface, preventing leaks.

How can I test if my new drain stopper is working correctly?

Once you've installed the new stopper and the plumber's putty has had a little time to set, fill the tub with water. Let it sit for about an hour. If the water level stays the same, you've got a good seal! If the water level drops, there might be a small leak, and you'll need to check that everything is tightened and sealed properly.