Removing a bathtub drain can be a simple task, until you discover what kind of drain and stopper is in place in your tub. Knowing how to remove a drain can save time and money when you have a slow draining bathtub, need to replace an old drain assembly, fix a leak or clean a broken drain.
Many homeowners simply think that their plumber should be able to take care of their bathtub’s drain removal. In fact, most tub drains can be taken out with basic household tools and a certain amount of patience. The important things to keep in mind are knowing the type of drain stopper, the right removal technique, and refraining from using any force that may break the tub or plumbing lines.
This guide tells you how to remove tub drain assemblies, drain stoppers, drain plugs, pop-up drains, and even broken bathtub drains.
Table of Contents
Understanding How a Tub Drain Works
It’s useful to know a little bit about the basic parts of a bathtub drain before removing it.
The standard bathtub drain is made up of a drain flange, a drain shoe, a stopper mechanism and an overflow assembly. The metal ring that you can see in the tub is called the drain flange. This is attached to the tub by screwing into the drain shoe under the tub (it’s often covered with plumber’s putty to prevent a leak).
As the years go by, the soap residue, hair, mineral buildup and corrosion can cause the drain to be more difficult to remove. Older homes can pose extra problems in removal, because the rusted threads and hardened putty can be a problem.
If you know what they are, the process will be a lot simpler.
Reasons You May Need to Remove a Tub Drain
There are a number of reasons why it is sometimes necessary to remove a bathtub drain.
Most frequent causes are the replacement of an old or broken drain assembly. Over time, bathtub drains can corrode, particularly if the plumbing system is older. Both visual and functional issues can be caused by rust and mineral deposits.
Another frequent cause is the repair of drainage problems. The hair, soap scum and debris often build up around the stopper mechanism and drain opening. The drain removal allows for a much more thorough cleaning than can be done by regular drain cleaning techniques.
Another reason homeowners choose to remove their bathtub drains is to replace bathtubs, enhance hardware finishes or fix the plumbing under the tub when renovating a bathroom or making repairs to it.
The drain stopper may be damaged in some cases, and the whole drain needs to be removed to put in a new drain stopper.
Tools Needed to Remove a Tub Drain
The specific tools you will need will vary depending on the condition and type of bathtub drain. But it’s only the basic items that most projects need.
Generally, a screwdriver is required to strip the components of the stoppers or overflow plates. Use of needle-nose pliers may be useful when removing small parts. Use an adjustable wrench for extra leverage in difficult drain removal.
A tub drain wrench or bathtub drain removal tool is highly recommended for the actual drain flange removal. These tools are used for just this reason, to safely remove the crossbars without harming the surface of the tub that they are in.
In the case of an older drain, using penetrating oil will go a long way in releasing rusted threads. Another tool that can be helpful is a hair dryer to loosen a hardened plumber’s putty that has attached the drain flange to the tub.
Identify Your Bathtub Drain Stopper Type First
You’ll first need to remove the stopper from the drain before trying to remove the drain itself.
This is where lots of homeowners go wrong. The various styles of stoppers apply the stoppers in different ways and using the wrong one can cause damage.
Lift-and-Turn Stopper
Lift and turn stopper that opens. Usually these stoppers have a small stop screw underneath the cap. After loosening the screw the stopper may be unscrewed and removed.
Push-Pull Stopper
Push-pull stoppers work by pulling on the up position and pushing on the down position. Typically these models will unscrew from a threaded post when the cap is removed.
Toe-Touch Stopper
The toe-touch stoppers are foot activated. The vast majority can be taken out by rotating the stopper cap counterclockwise when it is opened.
Pop-Up Tub Drain
Overflow linkage is behind the overflow plate and is connected to pop-up drains. Before the stopper can be removed from these systems, they must be emptied by removing the overflow assembly.
Trip-Lever Stopper
In older homes, trip-lever systems are the common. A lever is attached to an invisible plunger mechanism in the overflow pipe.
Flip-It Stopper
Flip-It stoppers use rubber o-rings to seal, and typically can be removed from the drain opening with your fingers.
It is crucial to properly identify the type of stopper first before moving on.
How to Remove Tub Drain Stopper
The first step to removing a bathtub drain is to remove the stopper assembly.
Start initially by opening stopper fully. Inspect the stopper for screws, threads or mounting posts. There are hidden screws under decorative caps that many homeowners don’t consider.
After all of the retaining screws have been removed, twist the stopper counter-clockwise. The majority of stopper assemblies will either unscrew from a threaded post or lift free completely.
Do not force the stopper if it seems to be stuck. Resistance can be developed from buildup of mineral deposits and soap. A few drops of penetrating oil around the connection, then wait a few minutes, can make it much easier to remove.
Once the stopper is removed, dust and debris should be removed from the vicinity of the drainage hole first before the next step is taken.
How to Remove a Tub Drain Step by Step
After the stopper has been removed, it’s time to get on with the removal of the drain flange itself.
Step 1: Clean the Drain Opening
Hair, soap residue, and debris commonly will not allow tools to effect a good grip on the drain. Clean the drain opening with rag or small brush.
A clean work area offers greater visibility and makes slipping while removing less likely.
Step 2: Loosen Old Plumber’s Putty
Plumber’s putty is used to seal many bathtub drains. Over time, this material hardens and ‘glues’ the drain in place.
Letting the putty warm up slightly with a hair dryer will help to remove it. Don’t use too much heat on acrylic tubs, as it can ruin the finish.
Step 3: Insert a Drain Removal Tool
Put a bathtub wrench in the bathtub drain. The tool should securely attach to the metal crossbars within the drain flange.
You might need to use a specialised drain extractor if the crossbars are damaged or not present.
Step 4: Turn Counterclockwise
With an adjustable wrench or screwdriver, use leverage to turn the drain tool counterclockwise.
Use a uniform pressure, not a force. If too much force is exerted, it may break the crossbars or damage the drain shoe under the tub.
When the threads start to loosen, the drain flange should rotate more easily.
Step 5: Unscrew and Remove the Drain
Turn until the drain flange is completely apart from the drain shoe.
Remove the drain from the opening and check the threads for wear, corrosion or damage.
Step 6: Clean the Surface
Clean the surface of the tub of all plumber’s putty. A plastic putty knife can be used and will not scratch the finish as much.
The surface should be completely clean before installing a new drain assembly.
How to Remove the Drain Plug From a Tub
The word “drain plug” and the word “drain stopper” are used synonymously by many.
Depending on the design that was installed in your bathtub, you may have to remove the drain plug. The vast majority of drain plugs will either be unscrewed from a mounting post or are attached to an overflow linkage assembly.
Before removing the plug, look carefully at the plug. A few designs contain recessed screws which only become visible when the stopper is opened partially.
Correct removal of the plug means there will be no damage to the stopper mechanism and it will make the maintenance of the drain easier.
How to Remove a Pop Up Tub Drain
Pop-up tub drains are a bit different as they are linked to a hidden system.
First, remove the screws that hold the overflow faceplate. When removed, slowly pull the plate off the wall.
A linkage assembly will be attached to the plate and will protrude into the overflow pipe. With care, remove the assembly so that the stopper mechanism is accessible.
Don’t twist or bend the linkage rods, they may be hard to replace if needed.
After removal, wipe down all components before putting them back in or replacing.
How to Remove a Broken Tub Drain
One of the most common problems faced by homeowners is broken bathtub drains.
Most frequently, the drain crossbars will fail. These crossbars are required to provide any means of removal for the standard tools to extract a drain.
In those cases, it’s essential to use a bathtub drain extractor. This special tool will grow into the drain flange and holds onto the inner surface of the flange, rather than on the crossbars.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to insert the extractor and turn it counter-clockwise until the drain opens.
Sometimes, if the drain threads are badly corroded and are fused to the drain shoe, penetrating oil may help. Leave the oil in for at least 20 minutes before trying to remove.
In severe cases the drain flange might be carefully cut and gradually removed in sections.
Common Problems When Removing a Tub Drain
There are a number of problems which can occur during the process of removing a drain.
Rust, corrosion, mineral deposits or hardened plumber’s putty is typically the cause of a stubborn drain. With a few exceptions, the problem can usually be cured by application of penetrating oil and adequate soaking.
A second commonly occurring issue is stripped threads. If the drain will spin but not unscrew, it’s possible that the threads have been compromised. It may be necessary to get access to the plumbing under the tub.
Older drains often have broken cross bars as well. In such instances, the best way to get rid of the drain is the drain extractor.
Patience is important. Work is stressed and often more repairs are made than necessary.
Installing a New Tub Drain After Removal
After successfully removing the old drain, installation of a new drain is relatively simple.
Put a new ring of plumber’s putty under the new drain flange. Put the flange in the drain hole and screw it in the drain shoe.
Use a drain wrench to tighten the drain, but not to over-tighten it. Using too much force may harm the threads and may lead to leaks.
After installation remove excess putty and test the drain by filling the tub with water. Look around the drain flange thoroughly for any leakage problems.
When Should You Call a Professional?
Although most bathtub drains can be pulled out of the bathtub without a professional can help, there are certain situations where expert help is needed.
When the drain shoe spins under the tub, when the plumbing connections loosen, or when a lot of corrosion has occurred around the plumbing system, it’s probably best to call a licensed plumber.
Sometimes professional plumbing service is required, particularly if access under the tub is restricted, or if the draining job is included in a bigger bathroom remodeling job.
Conclusion
Having the skill how to remove tub drain can save the homeowner time, money and frustration. Removing a tub drain stopper, replacing a broken drain flange, taking off a pop-up drain or any other problem involving a broken tub drain is so much easier when using the right tools and techniques.
The most critical ones are correctly identifying the type of drain, removing the stopper, using a suitable tool for removing the stopper, and applying even pressure while removing the stopper. Most bathtub drains can be snaked out safely, without harming the tub or plumbing system, by taking your time and preparing ahead of time.
FAQs About How To Remove Tub Drain?
How do you remove a bathtub drain without a special tool?
If the drain crossbars are not damaged, it may be possible to use two needle-nose pliers in an x position inside the drain opening to remove the drain. Use a screwdriver between the plier handles and turn against the screw to gain leverage. A bathtub drain wrench is the best and safest tool for removing a tub drain without harming the drain flange however.
Why won’t my tub drain unscrew?
Rust, mineral deposits, corrosion or hardened plumber’s putty that secures the drain flange to the tub may prevent the tub drain from unscrewing. Soaking drains with penetrating oil for 15 to 30 minutes can help unclog clogged ones. A drain extractor might be required in extreme situations.
How do I remove a stuck tub drain stopper?
The removal method will vary depending on the type of stopper. Cleaning the base of the stuck stoppers to remove soap scum and mineral deposits tends to remove the stickiness. If the stopper has a set screw which is not visible, loosen it first before trying to rotate or remove the stopper.
How do you remove a toe-touch tub drain stopper?
To remove a toe-touch stopper, push it open and twist the cap counterclockwise. After removing the cap, be sure to unscrew the mounting post below the cap. Depending on the model, a screwdriver may be needed to completely remove the model.
How do you remove a lift-and-turn bathtub stopper?
Open the stopper completely and check if there is a tiny set screw under the stopper or close to the base. Remove the screw with a screwdriver or Allen wrench, and twist the drain stopper counterclockwise and remove it from the drain.