We've all been there. After a long day, you want nothing more than a soothing soak in the tub, but instead of being welcomed by a refreshing bath, you find yourself standing in ankle-deep water. Yes, it seems your bathtub drain has developed a mind of its own and refuses to cooperate.
But fear not, DIY warriors! As an experienced repairman, I'm here to arm you with some nifty hacks to conquer that stubborn bathtub drain. Let's dive in!
The Different Bathtub Drain Design Types
Toe-Touch Drains
These are quite common as they operate via a foot-tap mechanism. A push-down unlocks and drains the water while another seals it. They are relatively simple to dismantle and manage using standard tools.
Lift and Turn Drains
True to their name, lift and turn drains require a slight twist to open or close them. These can pose a challenge when cleaning, as they usually need unscrewing for thorough maintenance.
How to Troubleshoot Bathtub Drain Issues
Before fetching your toolbox, it's a good idea to perform some basic troubleshooting to understand the nature of the problem, whether it's a clog, a faulty drain assembly, or both.
DIY Methods to Fix a Clogged Bathtub Drain
Use a Plunger
Ah, the good old plunger! This eternal ally of DIY repair can be your first line of defense against a stubborn bathtub drain. Remember to cover the overflow drain and give a few powerful plunges to dislodge any obstructions. Be sure to reward yourself with a hearty laugh while imagining the unseen chaos beneath your tub, though!
Snake the Drain
If the plunger fails, it's time to snake your drain. But hold on; we don't mean inviting actual snakes in! A plumbing snake (or drain snake) is a flexible auger that drills through the clog, breaking it up to restore the flow.
Homemade Concoctions
Good things come to those who wait. If the methods above haven't worked, combine ½ cup of baking soda and ½ cup of white vinegar and pour them down the drain. Wait 15-20 minutes for the volcanic eruption beneath your tub to dislodge the clog. Finish off by pouring boiling water to wash down the remnants.
Replacing or Adjusting the Bathtub Drain
Cracked or rusty drains may need replacing, while you may only need to adjust those not opening fully. You can usually unscrew the exposed part of the drain counter-clockwise using pliers or a drain-removal tool. Replace or adjust as needed and refit by screwing it back in.
Seeking Professional Help
While it's rewarding to fix household issues, some problems could indicate more complex underlying issues. If it seems your bathtub drain issue isn't simply a minor clog, don't hesitate to call a plumber.
Preventive Maintenance is Key
If you're giggling, thinking, "Not today, bathtub drain, not today," then congrats on your victory! Keep it up by practicing some preventive maintenance. Regularly clean your drain by flushing it with boiling water, avoid disposing of hair or grease in the tub, and install a drain cover to prevent future blockages.
In this battle of wills between you and the bathtub drain, you are the victor! So, the next time it tries to dampen your bubble bath fun, just remind yourself that you've got all the DIY hacks right at your fingertips!
Until next time, keep winning those DIY battles! Remember, the only thing leaky should be your faucet of ideas, not your troublesome bathtub drain.