Pop Up Drains Guide for Bathtubs

Installing or replacing the drain in your bathtub can be a frustrating task if you don't have the right parts and knowledge. Pop up drains are a great option to ensure a watertight seal and easy drain control in your tub.

Read on to learn all about pop up drains so you can decide if they are the right solution for your bathtub drain needs.

What Are Pop Up Drains and How Do They Work?

A pop up drain, also sometimes called a pop up stopper, is an adjustable drain plug that seals inside the drain opening. It operates with a control arm and linkage connected to a pivot rod inside the overflow pipe. When the trip lever on the overflow plate is lifted, it pulls on the linkage to lift the stopper up inside the drain.

Pop up drains create a tight seal to hold water in the tub for bathing. When you're ready to drain the tub, you simply pull the lever, which drops the stopper down to open the drain. This allows the water to exit while preventing debris from clogging pipes.

Benefits of Pop Up Drains for Bathtubs

• Create a reliable water-tight seal to hold bath water
• Easy to control drainage with a flip of the trip lever
• Designed specifically to fit bathtub overflows and drains
• Durable brass and silicone construction
• Smoother drain control compared to old-style stoppers

Types of Pop Up Drains for Bathtubs

There are a few varieties of pop up drains made to suit different tub overflow configurations:

• Standard Bathtub Pop Up Drains - Designed for standard tub overflows with 2" diameter drains
• Extra Large Pop Up Drains - For larger or double drains up to 4" wide
• Flip Style Pop Ups - Rotates up and down instead of lifting/dropping
• Toe-Touch Style - Activated by tapping with foot instead of trip lever

Choosing the Right Pop Up Drain

With different shapes, sizes, and styles available, it's important to select the right pop up drain for your existing bathtub setup. Here are the key factors to consider:

Check Dimensions for Proper Fit

Measure the diameter of your current tub drain opening to choose a pop up drain that will correctly fit the space. Standard sizes are 2 inches or 1 1/2 inches across. You'll also need to check:

• Overflow hole width if replacing the entire overflow plate
• Height of straight overflow pipe behind drain

This ensures all parts align properly for smooth operation and drainage.

Consider Material Durability

Solid brass pop up drains provide maximum strength and corrosion resistance for the stopper mechanism. Silicone stoppers withstand heat well while providing a soft, watertight seal.

Many drains feature a combination like brass internals with a silicone stopper. Avoid cheaper plastic components that can crack over time.

Top Recommended Pop Up Drains

Based on excellent reviews and ratings for quality, durability, and ease of installation, here are top choices:

• Excelle Elite Solid Brass Pop Up with Silicone Stopper
• Wyndham Collection Lift and Turn Clicker with Stopper
• MOEN Replacement Gasket Stopper with Pivot Rod

Installing a Pop Up Drain

Putting in a new pop up drain is a straightforward DIY project if you have plumbing experience. Here's an overview of the process:

Gather the Right Tools

• Adjustable wrench
• Plumber's putty
• Tube of silicone
• Rag
• Bucket
• Flashlight

It's wise to turn off the household water first. Have a small bucket on hand to catch any drips.

Follow the Step-By-Step Guide

We'll briefly cover the key installation steps here:

1. Remove old drain stopper mechanism
2. Detach overflow plate if replacing
3. Clean tub drain hole thoroughly
4. Insert lift rod and stopper assembly
5. Attach to pivot rod and test for smooth motion
6. Reinstall overflow plate if needed
7. Apply plumber's putty underneath for watertight seal
8. Run water into tub and check for leaks

Carefully follow manufacturer's instructions for your specific drain model to ensure success.

Watch for These Common Mistakes

• Forgetting plumber's putty seal
• Cracking porcelain tub surface
• Misaligning parts and linkage
• Overtightening nuts and bolts

Avoid problems by working slowly, using care not to damage existing tub hardware when removing the old stopper setup.

Troubleshooting Pop Up Drain Issues

While pop up drains are designed for smooth operation, problems can occur over time. Here's how to diagnose and fix some common problems:

Drain Not Sealing Properly

If bath water doesn't stay put very well, the stopper may be warped or have a damaged gasket underneath. Replace just the silicone stopper itself first. If sealing is still weak, the gasket/washer may need replacement as well.

Drain Stuck Closed

Mineral deposits can cause a stuck pop up mechanism. Remove the stopper and use vinegar or another descaling solution to dissolve any buildup. Flush with hot water, replace stopper and test.

If it still won't open freely, the linkage may be bent or out of alignment. Straighten or replace as needed.

Drain Leaking

Leaks usually mean deteriorated seals. Tighten the mounting nuts underneath the overflow plate. If this doesn't work, remove the drain pieces and replace all rubber gaskets and washers.

Be sure to use silicone sealant when re-installing the overflow plate.

Caring for Your Pop Up Drain

Regular maintenance keeps your pop up drain working smoothly for years. Follow these tips:

Monthly Cleaning

Hair, soap residue, and minerals from bath water can impede drain function if allowed to accumulate. Once a month, use a zip-it tool to pull out hair from the stopper mechanism. Flush with hot water.

Check Seals Yearly

Inspect the gaskets and o-rings that provide watertight seals around stopper components. Replace any that look cracked, dried out or flattened.

Test Pop Up Motion

Verify the stopper moves up and down freely when you engage the trip lever. Spray lubricant on pivot points if sticky. Adjust rod links if needed.

Hiring a Plumber vs. DIY

Is installing a new pop up drain a DIY job, or best left to a professional plumber? Consider a few factors to decide.

Complexity

The process of putting in a new pop up drain is relatively straightforward. But extracting an old, stuck drain first or working in a tight space can complicate matters.

Existing Damage Risk

If your bathtub is already cracked or leaks around the current drain, a pro plumber has specialized tools to remove old hardware without further damage.

Time and Convenience

A busy homeowner may choose to hire a plumber to save time and effort instead of taking on the hour-plus project themselves.

In the end, evaluate your DIY confidence and weigh cost considerations to make the best choice.

Types of Bathtub Drain Stopper Alternatives

While pop up designs are highly popular, other styles of tub drain stoppers are available. Here is a quick overview:

Lift and Turn Stoppers

These operate with a knob that lifts and rotates to engage or release the seal. No trip lever needed.

Toe Touch Stoppers

Designed to open and close when you press on the stopper with your toe. Great for hands-free convenience.

Flip Style Stoppers

Similar to pop ups but with a stopper that rotates 180 degrees up or down to control water flow.

Push Button Stoppers

Press down on a spring-loaded stopper to close it. Push again to release and open the drain.

Shopping Tips for Buying Pop Up Drains

Here is some advice for sourcing the right pop up drain online or at local stores:

Check Dimensions First

Have measurements of your drain pipe and overflow plate openings handy so you select an appropriate fit.

Buy from Bath Specialty Sellers

Plumbing supply stores and sites specializing in bathroom fixtures have the best selection and knowledge to help choose.

Compare Prices Carefully

Costs can range widely from $12 up to $60+ for high end solid brass pop up drains. Set a budget while keeping quality as a priority.

Design Inspiration for Bathtub Drain Covers

While most pop up drains contain all working parts underneath the tub, you can add decorative flair with a drain cover on top. Here are some ideas:

Match Faucet Finishes

Choose an oil-rubbed bronze, polished chrome, or other finish drain cover that coordinates with your bathtub filler faucet.

Contrast with Bold Colors

Make the drain a standout accent instead with a bright, eye-catching stopper cover to contrast your faucet.

Coordinate with Tub and Tile

Consider a drain cover color that picks up subtle hues from your bathtub, walls, or floor tile if going for a cohesive look.

The options are endless for personalizing this utilitarian plumbing fixture!

Frequently Asked Questions

New homeowners, renters, or those remodeling may still have some common questions about pop up drains. Here are answers to some often-asked questions:

Are Pop Up Drains Universal Size?

No, pop up drains come in different stopper diameters, overflow plate sizes, etc. Measure your existing tub drain to select the properly sized replacement.

How Do I Remove an Old, Stuck Drain?

Penetrating oil around the rim can help free a firmly stuck old drain. You may need to gently chisel away at calcium deposits. Go slowly to avoid damaging porcelain.

Can Any Plumber Install These?

Yes, any professional plumber has the knowledge to replace an old drain with a new pop up style. Just show them specifications of what you purchased.

Complementary Plumbing Upgrades

While you're replacing or installing a new bathtub drain, it's smart to consider other improvements as part of your project scope. Here are some to think about:

Re-Caulk Around Tub

Fresh caulk seals the seam between tub edges and floor/walls to prevent moisture damage and mildew growth.

New Faucet and Handles

Update the entire tub filling fixture system at once for cohesive style and performance.

High-Efficiency Water Heater

Cut utility costs and your environmental footprint with an ENERGY STAR model to replace an old, inefficient unit.

We hope this guide has helped explain what pop up drains are, why they are a great solution for bathtub drainage, and key steps for choosing and installing the right one successfully in your home.