Removing a corroded bathtub drain can be a tricky job, but it can be done with the right tools and a bit of persistence. First, you’ll need a basin wrench, a drain key, a hacksaw, some plumbers’ joint compound and a putty knife.
Before you begin, put a bucket beneath the drain to catch any debris and water that comes out.
Begin by unscrewing the shower head and the supply lines. Make sure to turn off the water supply first before unscrewing anything. Then, use the basin wrench to unscrew the mounting nut located at the back of the drain and remove the drainpipe.
Next, use the drain key or hacksaw to cut through the corrosion on the edge of the bathtub drain. Make sure to work slowly and apply steady pressure to avoid damaging the bathtub. Once the corrosion is removed, use a putty knife to scrape away any debris or gunk that may be present in the drain.
Now you can use the plumbers’ joint compound to cover the area where the drainpipe meets the bathtub. Use a clean cloth to spread the compound around until it is evenly applied. Lastly, you’ll need to reassemble the drainpipe and mounting nut.
Once everything is in place, tighten the mounting nut with the basin wrench and turn the water supply back on.
With these steps, you should be able to successfully remove a corroded bathtub drain. However, if these methods do not work for you, you might need to hire a professional plumber to complete the job.
Why is my bathtub drain corroding?
Corrosion is more likely to occur on older tubs with aged metal fixtures, as the metal has been exposed to moisture and other chemicals in the air over a longer period of time, leading to oxidation and other forms of corrosion.
In some cases, corrosion may also be caused by chemicals or other materials such as soap scum or other sediment building up in the drain over time. This buildup of material can cause corrosion to occur as a result of a chemical reaction between the material and the metal.
Additionally, acidic or corrosive cleaners or other products that are used in the shower or tub can cause corrosion of the bathtub drain over time.
Is there a tool to remove a bathtub drain?
Yes, there are several tools specifically designed to remove a bathtub drain. Depending on the drain, the most commonly used tool is either a drain removal wrench with a long handle or a drain key. To use a drain removal wrench, you’ll need to position the long handle of the tool around the drain and then turn it counterclockwise.
With a solid grip and steady force, this will unscrew the drain and it will pop out. A drain key is often used for drains with a circular shape at the bottom. To use it, you’ll insert the key into the drain and rotate it in the same direction until the entire drain and filter screen are removed from the opening.
How do you remove a bathtub drain without special tools?
Removing a bathtub drain without special tools is possible, but it can be a tricky process. In most cases, the most effective way to remove the drain is by using basic hand tools. First, you’ll want to look for the round cap, often found along the edge of the tub.
You’ll be able to unscrew it with a pliers or large adjustable wrench. Underneath you’ll find a bolt or nut that must be unscrewed and then slowly pulled out.
Once the nut or bolt is fully out of the drain, you may need to use a pair of pliers to pry it the rest of the way out. If a rubber gasket is present, you should use the pliers to remove this as well.
Once the stopper and gasket have been removed, the drain should pull out.
Before attempting to remove the drain, it’s recommended to plug the overflow hole, as debris can easily be pulled down into the pipes, creating a clog. Additionally, you should be sure to tape a rag over the drain hole, as some of these components can be very small and easy to lose track of.
With these steps followed, it’s possible to effectively remove a bathtub drain without any special tools or professional help!.
How do you use a tub drain extractor tool?
Using a tub drain extractor tool is a simple way to remove a tub drain stopper. Before beginning, it is important to thoroughly clean the drain and gather your tools. This will help ensure a smooth process.
First, identify the type of drain stopper you are working with. Some common types are a push-pull type, a drum stopper with a knob, a toe-tap stopper, and a trip lever stopper. It is important to be familiar with the type of stopper you are dealing with so that you can properly configure the extractor tool.
Once the type of stopper is identified, affix the extractor tool over the stopper. If your stopper requires an adapter, place the adapter into the extractor tool before affixing to the stopper. Once the tool is in place, turn the knob or handle on the extractor tool to unlock and unlock the tab.
This will cause the stopper to release from the drain.
When the stopper is released, it will likely still remain attached to the extractor tool. Simply remove the stopper from the tool or unscrew it if it is a threaded stopper. After the stopper is removed, you should clean the area and discard of the stopper safely.
The tub drain extractor tool is a handy tool to keep in your toolkit and makes removing tub drain stoppers easy.
What is the tool to unclog a tub drain?
The best tool to unclog a tub drain is a drain auger, also known as a plumber’s snake. This is a long, flexible metal cable with a crank attached to one end. You can insert the snake into the drain, and then crank the handle until the blockage is cleared.
For more stubborn blockages, you may need to purchase a larger auger or specialty augers for removing more difficult blockages. You can find drain augers in most hardware and home improvement stores.
If the blockage is particularly difficult to remove, you may want to hire a plumber to help.
How long should a snake be in a tub drain?
Ideally, a snake should not be used in a tub drain. The tub drain is too narrow, so it can be difficult to use a snake and there is a risk of damaging the pipes. If a snake is necessary, it should be as short as possible — a few feet long should be enough.
Remember to wear protective gloves and use gentle pressure when using a snake.
What tools do I need to remove a bathtub?
You will need several tools to safely and properly remove a bathtub. Generally, the first thing you will need is an impact drill with a SDS chuck and a SDS masonry bit. This tool is important for drilling into the tile and loosening any mortar or caulk.
You will also need a reciprocating saw or jig saw with a masonry or tile blade. This will be important for cutting through the tile and caulk.
You may also need a claw hammer, a hand grinder, a cold chisel, a pry bar, and a hacksaw or coping saw. The pry bar and hacksaw or coping saw are helpful for removing any additional tile from the edges of the bathtub.
The chisel and hammer are essential for removing any mortar or caulk from the edges of the bathtub. The hand grinder is used to clean the edges of the bathtub if the previous tools don’t work.
Finally, you will need safety equipment such as safety glasses, gloves, a dust mask, and ear protection in order to stay protected while operating the tools. Having the right equipment is essential for successfully removing a bathtub.
What can I use instead of a drain wrench?
If you don’t have a drain wrench, a multi-tool with pliers and a claw-style head will do the job. Other tools that can also be used include a screwdriver, adjustable wrench, and/or a pair of pliers. If the drain head is made of metal, you can use a metal file to unscrew it.
For plastic drain heads, use pliers to twist and turn in order to unscrew it. You can also wrap a soft cloth or rag around a pair of pliers to ensure you get a strong grip on the drain head. If all else fails, you can also get a replacement drain wrench from your local hardware store.
What is the bathtub drain lever called?
The bathtub drain lever is also referred to as the trip lever or bathtub trip lever. This metal lever is located at the front end of the tub, and when depressed, it allows water to drain out of the tub.
It can come in a variety of designs such as metal, chrome, brass, and plastic, and in some cases may also be referred to as the pop-up drain lever. In addition, there are different designs available for bathtubs with an overflow drain, including different lengths of lever arms, different finishes, and a variety of styles.
Is it hard to change a tub drain?
It can be difficult to change a tub drain, depending on the difficulty level of the job. If the tub drain needs to be completely replaced (like if the drain is corroded and needs to be replaced), then that can involve removing the existing plumbing and cutting out the old drain.
This will require the use of special tools and plumbing know-how. If the drain just needs to be renovated or repaired, then that might require only minor repairs such as replacing a washer or seal. This is typically a much easier job and can usually be done with basic supplies and a few tools.
Is it painful to remove drain?
Yes, it can be painful to remove a drain. Depending on the type of procedure you had and the type of drain that was used, the pain may vary. In general, a patient can expect some pain and discomfort when a drain is removed.
If there are stitches or staples used to close the openings where the drain was placed, there may be some discomfort as the medical provider removes them. Some people may need to take pain medication during and after the procedure.
The amount of pain will depend on the individual’s pain threshold and the circumstances of the particular procedure. Your medical provider will be able to provide specific instructions on what you can expect and how best to manage your pain and discomfort.
Are all tub drains screwed in?
No, not all tub drains are screwed in. And how they are installed varies depending on the type. Many tubs have a toe-touch or plunger drain, which don’t require screwing or anything else to hold them in place.
These types of drains work by pushing down on a lever or plunger on the overflow cover, which causes the drain to open. Other tubs may come with a lift and turn type of drain, which requires a strainer and drain plug that are secured to the tube with a nut and washer.
This type of drain is secured with a nut and washer and does not require screws to install. Finally, some tubs have a pop-up type of drain, which is the most common type. This type of drain is attached to the drain pipe with a slip-joint connection and does not require screws.
Does it hurt to get drains removed?
In most cases, it does not hurt to have a drain removed. Generally, the area around the drain site may feel a bit tender after it has been removed, but pain should be minimal, if any.
The procedure of drain removal tends to be quite brief and straightforward. The most common method of removing a drain involves the use of sterile forceps or tweezers to slowly, carefully, and firmly grasp the drain and then pull it out.
Generally, the removal process is relatively painless and doesn’t cause any major discomfort.
Usually, a follow-up appointment is scheduled with a physician or surgeon to ensure proper healing and to check for any signs of infection, bleeding or other complications. At the follow-up, the drain incision spot is typically examined just to make sure nothing else is going on.
In some cases, drainage may resume following removal, so it’s important to follow up with a physician to ensure there are no signs of infection or any other complications.
In summary, most people don’t experience significant pain during the process of having a drain removed, although some discomfort around the area is not uncommon. It is important to follow up with a physician or surgeon after the removal to ensure proper healing and to check for any possible complications.
How much does it cost to replace a tub drain?
The cost to replace a tub drain varies, depending on the type of drain, the condition of the current drain and access to the drain, and the cost of the materials and labor. The average cost of replacing a tub drain ranges from $200 to $500.
This cost includes the removal and disposal of the old drain, installation of the new drain, and installation of any necessary drain piping. If the current drain has already been removed, the cost may drop down to as low as $50.
Additionally, if you have knowledge of plumbing and access to the necessary tools, you may be able to replace the drain yourself, making the cost even lower.