1. Drain Stopper: The drain stopper is the component that seals the drain opening to hold water in the bathtub when needed. It is connected to a lever, knob, or other control mechanism that allows users to open or close the drain.
2. Drain Pipe: Beneath the drain opening, there is a pipe that extends horizontally or at a slight slope to the main drainpipe in the plumbing system. This pipe is typically made of PVC or metal and is designed to carry wastewater away from the bathtub.
3. P-Trap: The P-trap is a curved section of the drainpipe immediately beneath the drain opening. It is called a "P-trap" because of its distinctive shape. The P-trap retains a small amount of water, which creates a seal that prevents sewer gases from entering the bathroom. It also traps debris, preventing it from moving further into the drain system.
4. Overflow Drain: Many bathtubs are equipped with an overflow drain, located just below the rim of the bathtub. The overflow drain serves two purposes: it prevents the bathtub from overflowing when the water level gets too high, and it provides an additional drainage point when the stopper is closed. The overflow drain is connected to the main drainpipe.
When you open the drain by lifting the stopper or turning the control mechanism, the following process occurs to facilitate water drainage:
Water Flows into the Drain: Water in the bathtub flows toward the open drain.
P-Trap Seal: As the water approaches the P-trap, it flows down and forms a seal in the P-trap's curve. This seal prevents sewer gases and odors from coming back up into the bathroom.
Drainpipe: Water continues to flow down the drainpipe, moving through the P-trap and into the main drainpipe of the plumbing system.
Exit to Sewer or Septic System: The main drainpipe carries the wastewater away from the bathtub and connects to the sewer or septic system. The wastewater is then transported to the appropriate waste treatment facility.
If an overflow drain is present, it provides an additional exit point for excess water, ensuring that the bathtub doesn't overflow even when the stopper is closed. When the stopper is closed, water accumulates in the tub, and any excess water flows through the overflow drain into the main drainpipe.
What are the steps involved in installing a bathtub drain assembly?
Installing a bathtub drain assembly can be a DIY project for those with some plumbing experience. Here are the general steps involved in installing a bathtub drain assembly:
Tools and Materials Needed:
New bathtub drain assembly kit
Plumber's putty or silicone sealant
Wrenches (adjustable and pipe wrench)
Plumber's tape (Teflon tape)
Pipe cutter (if necessary)
Pipe glue (if using PVC pipes)
Safety glasses and gloves
Prepare the Area:
Ensure that the bathtub is in its final position and properly secured.
Remove any old drain components or debris from the drain hole.
Assemble the Drain:
Assemble the components of the new drain assembly according to the manufacturer's instructions. This typically includes attaching the drain flange, gasket, and any other required parts.
Roll a small amount of plumber's putty or apply silicone sealant to the underside of the drain flange. This will create a watertight seal between the drain and the tub.
Insert the Drain:
Insert the drain flange into the drain hole in the bathtub from above. Make sure the gasket or sealant is in contact with the tub surface.
Thread the Drain Shoe:
From below the tub, thread the drain shoe onto the drain flange. Use an adjustable wrench to tighten it securely. Be cautious not to overtighten and damage the tub.
Attach the Drain Pipe:
Connect the drain pipe to the drain shoe. Depending on your plumbing setup, you may need to cut the pipe to the appropriate length. Use a pipe cutter if necessary.
Use plumber's tape (Teflon tape) on the threads of the drain pipe to create a watertight seal.
Install the P-Trap:
Connect the P-trap to the drain pipe. Ensure that the P-trap is properly aligned and level. Use a wrench to tighten the compression nuts securely.
Check for Leaks:
Turn on the water and check for any leaks around the drain assembly, P-trap, and connections. If you notice any leaks, tighten the connections as needed.
Install the Drain Stopper:
Install the drain stopper according to the manufacturer's instructions. This may involve attaching a linkage or connecting the stopper to the lift-and-turn mechanism.
Test the Drain:
Fill the bathtub with water and test the drain operation. Check that the stopper opens and closes smoothly and that water drains efficiently without any obstructions.
Seal Around the Drain:
Apply a bead of silicone caulk around the perimeter of the drain flange on the top side of the tub. This provides an additional water seal and helps secure the drain assembly in place.
Wipe away any excess plumber's putty, sealant, or caulk with a damp cloth.
Once the caulk has dried, perform a final check for leaks and ensure that the drain is working correctly.