How to Fix a Clogged Tub Drain

The process for clearing a bathtub clog is the same no matter what type of plug it has.

When water in a bathtub drains either slowly or not at all, chances are good that the problem can be traced to a clogged drain line rather than to a mechanical problem. Although clogs can develop from mineral deposits, they are more commonly caused by hair and other debris. Fortunately, clearing a clogged bathtub drain usually takes only a few minutes.

Things You'll Need

• Rag
• Plunger
• Screwdriver
• Hand auger

Instructions

1. Soak a rag in water, then stuff the soaked rag into the bathtub's overflow drain.

2. Fill the bathtub with enough water to cover the drain opening if the tub is empty.

3. Plunge the drain with a plunger. The soaked rag will prevent any air from breaking the seal between the plunger and the drain.

4. Remove the two screws, using a screwdriver, that secure the drain switch assembly to the wall of the bathtub if the drain is still clogged.

5. Pull the drain switch assembly off of the bathtub's wall.

6. Feed the metal cable from a hand auger into the drain switch assembly's opening until the cable meets resistance.

7. Tighten the auger lock on the tip of the auger, then crank the auger's handle in a clockwise direction to clear the clog.

8. Release the auger's lock, then crank the auger's handle in a counterclockwise direction to reel in the auger's cable.

9. Position the drain switch assembly against the bathtub's wall, then install and tighten the assembly's two screws with a screwdriver.

References

• "Ten Pound Books: Home Repair Guide"; Creative Publishing International; 2007