No, bathtub drain stoppers are not universal. Different types of bathtubs require different drain stoppers to fit properly. The most common type of bathtub stopper is the lift and turn style. This type of stopper is operated by a lever fixed to the stopper, underneath the bathtub, which raises and lowers the stopper.
However, there are some more modern bathtubs that require a different type designed to fit the modern design of the tub. Other types that may be seen include trim plate style, pop-up style, and rubber stoppers.
All these styles require different sizes and shapes of stoppers, meaning that they are not universal to all bathtubs. Be sure to measure the inside of your bathtub and compare it to the size and shape of the drain stopper you are purchasing in order to ensure it will fit properly.
What size bathtub drain stopper do I need?
The size of bathtub drain stopper you need depends on the size of your particular bathtub. The most common drain sizes are 1 ½”, 1 ¼” and 2”. If you’re unsure of the size you need, it’s best to remove the existing stopper and measure its diameter.
This will let you know the correct size to purchase. Additionally, most stoppers are designed to fit bathtub drains of multiple sizes, so it’s a good idea to confirm the compatibility of your chosen stopper before purchase.
Can you change a tub drain stopper?
Yes, you can change a tub drain stopper. The process is relatively simple but requires some basic tools. The most important item you’ll need is a plunger. Plungers are available at most hardware stores and come in a variety of sizes and shapes.
To start, remove the stopper by turning it counterclockwise. Releasing the stopper usually allows it to slide out.
Once the stopper is removed you can inspect it to determine if the issue is a clogged drain or a worn stopper. If the stopper is worn or corroded, you’ll probably need to replace it. If the drain is clogged, use a plunger to dislodge any debris.
Once the drain is clear, you’re ready to install the new stopper. Place the stopper into the opening and use a screwdriver to secure it in place. Make sure it fits snugly so it won’t move or come loose.
To test the stopper, fill the tub with a few inches of water and check for any leaks. If the stopper doesn’t fit correctly, adjust the screws and try again.
Changing a tub drain stopper doesn’t have to be difficult. With a few simple steps, you’ll be able to successfully change out a stopper and enjoy a clean, functioning tub.
What can I use instead of a tub stopper?
There are numerous alternatives to a tub stopper that may work better for your plumbing setup. The most common options are a lift and turn stopper, a trip-lever stopper, or a pop-up stopper. A lift and turn stopper is operated by pulling a knob or handle up and turning it to close the drain, while a trip-lever stopper operates by pressing a lever or pulling a chain that acts as the stopper.
A pop-up stopper is actuated by pressing a button and can be found in many modern bathroom setups. Another option would be a rubber bathtub plug which sits on a chain and is reversible in direction, allowing it to fit most any size of drain.
If your tub does not contain a drain, you may be able to use a skimmer stopper, which seals off the surface of the water and prevents water from draining out. Finally, an inflatable stopper is a plastic disc that can be inserted into the drain and inflated to block the opening.
Once inflated, the stopper will seal tightly against the drain and prevent water from draining out.
How much does it cost to replace a stopper in the bathtub?
The cost of replacing a stopper in a bathtub will depend on a few different factors, including the type of stopper used, the type of material it’s made from, and any necessary labour costs. On average, replacing a basic pop-up type stopper can cost anywhere from $20-$50 for the part, minus any additional labour costs.
If you have a more specialized type of stopper – such as a trip lever stopper or a toe-tap stopper – the costs can be much higher, ranging from $100-$300. Any necessary labour costs will increase the overall cost of replacing a stopper in the bathtub, though these costs will vary depending on the local going rate for home improvement work and the difficulty of the job itself.
Are bath plugs a standard size?
No, bath plugs are not a standard size and unfortunately, there’s no single homogenous, universal design that fits all baths and basins. Generally, most plugs are designed to fit a range of sizes, but due to varying measurements, certain plugs may be better suited to others.
Sink and bath plugs are available in different styles, materials and sizes, so you should always make sure to measure your own basin hole before making a purchase. With that in mind, it is important to note that there are several common sizes available to suit the majority of basins.
Some of the most common sizes you can expect to find on the market are 40mm, 50mm, 55mm, and 70mm. Regardless of the size you need, there are many stylish, practical and affordable bath plug designs available to suit any style.
How do you remove a broken bathtub drain stopper?
Removing a broken bathtub drain stopper can be a frustrating experience. The best way to remove it and get everything working again is to start by turning off the water to the tub, if possible. Next, remove the drain cover, often called the drain flange.
This unscrews and may require some effort.
Once the flange is removed, you’ll need to get to the screw that is holding the drain lever in place. It should be easily visible from the top. If needed use a screwdriver to get a better angle, then use pliers to carefully unscrew the threaded post and remove the lever.
The stopper itself is a piece of metal, usually brass, with a rubber seal and it is attached to a linkage in the drain assembly.
You may need to use a wrench to disconnect the linkage and pull the stopper out. If needed, you can use a pair of pliers to pull the linkage apart. Depending on the type of drain you have, you may have to remove the linkage or remove the stopper.
If you need to remove the stopper, use a pair of pliers to take it off.
With the old stopper out, clean the drain the best you can before replacing the new drain. Once you’ve got the new drain installed and the water is turned back on, you should be good to go. If there is any leak, you will need to tighten the drain assembly with a wrench before using the tub.
How do you unclog a bathtub drain with a non removable stopper?
If your bathtub drain has a non-removable stopper, you will need to use a few different tools and techniques to unclog it. The first tool you will need is an electric tool such as the Zip-It drain cleaning tool.
This tool looks like a flexible wire with barbs on its end. Insert the barbed end into the drain, and twist it back and forth to grab and remove hair and debris. If you are unable to remove the clog with the Zip-It tool, you may need to try a different tool such as a plunger or sink snake, or use a chemical product such as baking soda and vinegar.
For the plunger or sink snake, insert the tool into the drain and push it down and turn it to remove the clog. For the baking soda and vinegar, pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of white vinegar.
Let the mixture sit for about an hour, then run hot water down the drain to see if the clog has been cleared. If these methods are unsuccessful in unclogging the drain, you may need to contact a professional plumber for assistance.
How do you measure the diameter of a bath plug?
Measuring the diameter of a bath plug can be done in a few simple steps. Firstly, you should gather a measuring tape, calipers, or ruler to measure the plug. To measure the diameter of a bath plug, position the measuring tool at the widest point of the circle that makes up the plug.
If using a measuring tape or ruler, be sure to measure from one side of the circle to the other, forming a straight line. If using calipers, the opening of the tool should be just slightly larger than the diameter of the plug in order for an accurate reading.
Read the measurement and record the value. The diameter of the bath plug is the measurement you have just taken.
Can you replace pop up bath plug with a normal plug?
Yes, you can replace a pop up bath plug with a normal plug. A pop up bath plug is typically used with a bathtub that has a pop up type drain in the center of the bathtub. In order to replace the pop up bath plug with a normal plug, you will need to remove the existing pop up bath plug.
Once the existing plug is removed, you can then install a normal plug in its place. Depending on the type of drainage system you have, you may need a specific type of normal plug. Make sure to look up the correct type and size of plug for your drainage system before making a purchase.
Additionally, you will also need to install a new gasket for the plug and make sure that the plug is tight in order to prevent any water from leaking out of the drain. Lastly, make sure to clean up any debris that may have been left behind from the old plug before using the new one.
Why does my tub drain stopper not work?
There can be a few reasons why your tub drain stopper may not be working properly. The most common reason is that the stopper inside the drain can become blocked with hair or other debris. This will cause the stopper to become stuck, not allowing it to move freely.
Another reason could be that the rod or linkage mechanism which controls the stopper is damaged or corroded and is not working properly. It may also be that the drain basket which holds the stopper in place is loose or needs to be tightened.
Finally, it could be that the drain connection needs to be re-seated or the rubber gasket needs to be replaced. To resolve the issue, the drain needs to be disassembled and the stopper, linkage mechanism, and any other parts need to be cleaned and inspected for damage or corrosion.
Depending on the cause of the issue, it could be fixed with a simple cleaning, or a new part may need to be replaced.
What are the different types of bathtub drain stoppers?
There are four main types of bathtub drain stoppers – plunger, toe-touch, trip lever and lift & turn.
The plunger type stopper is a stopper that fits into the center of the plug hole and is pushed down and up by a lever or pin connected to the outside of the bathtub. This lever or pin activates the plunger, causing it to open and close the drain.
The toe-touch or push-pull type stopper is a bathroom drain stopper which works by pushing down on the drain to open it and pulling it up to close it. It is often operated by the foot, hence its name.
The trip lever type stopper is a type of stopper which has a trip lever attached to the side of the bathtub, which is connected to a chain or a rod inside the tub. This lever is used to both open and close the drain.
The lift & turn type stopper is a stopper which is connected to a knob or handle on the side of the bathtub. When the knob is turned in one direction, the stopper is lifted and the drain is opened; when it’s turned in the opposite direction, the stopper is lowered and the drain is closed.
Can you replace the drain stopper in a bathtub?
Yes, you can replace the drain stopper in a bathtub. Depending on the type of drain stopper you have, the process of replacing it will vary somewhat. If your drain stopper is located in the center of the bathtub, then you will need to remove the screws securing it in place.
Once the screws are removed, you can pull out the old stopper and disconnect it from the linkage. To install the new drain stopper, you’ll need to attach the stopper to the linkage and secure it with the screws.
If you have a lift-and-turn bathtub drain stopper, then you will need to unscrew the stopper cap, which will give you access to the stopper linkage. You can then remove the old stopper, install the new one and put the stopper cap back on.
Whichever type of drain stopper you have, it’s also recommended that you apply plumber’s putty once the stopper has been installed to prevent water from migrating up and around the stopper.
Should I use plumbers putty or silicone on tub drain?
It depends on the type of tub drain you are using. Plumbers putty is a malleable material which is used to form a watertight seal around drains and fittings. It is mainly used on metal, porcelain and glass tub drains, but should not be used on plastic drains.
Silicone is a more versatile sealant which can be used to form a watertight seal on all types of drains, including plastic. It is more durable than plumbers putty and is also able to seal any gaps which may be present between the drain and the tub surface.
However, silicone is more difficult to apply and should only be used by someone with experience in plumbing or home repair.
Can a tub stopper be replaced?
Yes, a tub stopper can be replaced. Depending on the type of tub plug, the product you need to replace it may vary. If the stopper is a push-pull type then you will need a new cover assembly, or a lift-lock type may only require a new spring-loaded cap and gasket.
A trip-lever type will require a new lift rod, lever, and stopper assembly. In most cases, all the parts needed to replace a tub stopper can be purchased from a local hardware store, or from the same company that manufactured the tub if the model and make is known.
Replacing a tub stopper does require some basic plumbing tools, such as a spud wrench, basin wrench, and pliers. For safety, it’s recommended to turn off the water supply before attempting any repair.
With the right parts, tools and instructions, replacing a tub stopper is not too difficult and is something that most homeowners can do themselves.