Toilets, Sinks, Showers, Tubs and Disposals - clogged tub drain
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lirgo87
07-15-08, 01:43 PM
This happens quite frequently and usually some draino or whatever will do in a few days time.I live in a top floor apt. so I have no access from below. I removed the drain ring but can't quite see what it is clogging up the drain. I'm sure its hair and soap scum, but this time the water looks awfully murky and almost like these some solid base to it. Almost looks like wet cement. I know I need to try to get IN there phsyically to see what I can pull out but theres this outter metal ring attached to the tub(fiberglass tub) that can't be removed. It has a line down the center so it blocks your fingers and makes it difficult to snake somehting in there.I also have figured I need to plunge but I have shoulder replacements BOTH arms so that may not work for me. It's been getting worse instead of better. Any suggestions? Or do I just have to suck it up and get someone to fix this before it totally stops up? We're in a tight place here with money but I know the longer one waits the more it could add up.
Thanks for ANY help or suggestions.
Love this site and the people here!
Thanks for ANY help or suggestions.
Love this site and the people here!
plumbingods
07-15-08, 02:23 PM
First off, if you are talking about the metal piece on the bottom of the tub, STOP RIGHT THERE !!!
Do not try to remove that piece.
What you want to do is remove the overflow plate. The one that should have a lever to stop up the tub.
Inside it you will probably find a linkage for the stopper. That should come right out carefully. Also remember how it came out, so you can reinstall it.
When you pull it out, you will most likely find some hair all over it. That may be the extent of your problem. Sometimes you will have some hair caught on the bottom drain which you will need to pick at with your fingers or needle nose pliers. If you continue to have problems, you can plunge the tub by first stuffing a wet rag or sponge into the overflow tube so no air can escape, then you can plunge the drain. If all else fails, you can try a snake, but you must be careful because you will need to snake through the trap. Sometimes that will not work.
Last plan of attack is call a plumber.
Do not try to remove that piece.
What you want to do is remove the overflow plate. The one that should have a lever to stop up the tub.
Inside it you will probably find a linkage for the stopper. That should come right out carefully. Also remember how it came out, so you can reinstall it.
When you pull it out, you will most likely find some hair all over it. That may be the extent of your problem. Sometimes you will have some hair caught on the bottom drain which you will need to pick at with your fingers or needle nose pliers. If you continue to have problems, you can plunge the tub by first stuffing a wet rag or sponge into the overflow tube so no air can escape, then you can plunge the drain. If all else fails, you can try a snake, but you must be careful because you will need to snake through the trap. Sometimes that will not work.
Last plan of attack is call a plumber.
lirgo87
07-15-08, 02:47 PM
Thanks for your info. You seem to be the plumbing GOD here for sure...found your name checking around some other threads. Thanks again! Love the quote too...No such thig as Never pretty much either.hah