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Lift and Turn Tub Drain Problems? Here's How to Fix It Fast!

Are you struggling with a lift and turn tub drain that just won't cooperate? Maybe it's stuck, leaking, not draining properly, or simply refusing to lift and turn. Don't worry, you're not alone! These types of drains are common, but they can also be a common source of frustration. The good news is, many lift and turn tub drain problems can be fixed quickly and easily without calling a plumber. This guide will walk you through the most common issues and provide step-by-step instructions on how to fix them fast!

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Before we dive into the fixes, let's quickly understand the anatomy of a lift and turn tub drain. Unlike pop-up or toe-touch drains, lift and turn drains have a simple mechanism: you lift the stopper to allow water to drain and turn it (usually in either direction) to hold it in the closed position. This mechanism, while seemingly straightforward, can be prone to issues over time.

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Here's a breakdown of common problems and how to troubleshoot them like a pro:

1. The Drain is Stuck in the Open (or Closed) Position

This is a super common problem. Often, it's caused by accumulated hair, soap scum, and other debris that prevents the stopper from moving freely.

How to Fix It:

1. Remove the Stopper: First, you'll need to remove the stopper. Most lift and turn drains have a screw on top of the stopper. Unscrew it (you may need a small flathead or Phillips head screwdriver). Once the screw is out, you should be able to lift the stopper straight up and out of the drain. If it's stuck, gently wiggle and pull.
2. Clean the Stopper and Drain Housing: Once you have the stopper out, inspect it and the drain housing. You'll likely find a disgusting mess of hair and gunk. Use an old toothbrush, a small cleaning tool, or even a bent wire hanger to remove all the accumulated debris. Pay close attention to the area around the stopper and the threads inside the drain housing. This includes the flange(the top piece of drain that sits inside the tub).
3. Reassemble and Test: Once everything is clean, reinstall the stopper and screw. Test the drain by lifting and turning the stopper. If it still sticks, proceed to step 4.
4. Adjust Stopper Height: Sometimes the stopper height is improperly set. When you unfasten the stopper, you will see a nut holding it in place. Experiment with moving the location of the nut on the threading of the stopper. By doing this you will be raising and lowering the total height. You may need to remove the stopper and screw several times to test the height. There is often a small sweet spot that allows the lift and turn to work effectively.
5. Apply Lubricant (If Necessary): If cleaning doesn't resolve the issue, a little silicone-based lubricant can help. Apply a small amount to the threads of the stopper and inside the drain housing. This will help the stopper move smoothly. Avoid using oil-based lubricants, as they can attract more debris over time. A great alternative is plumbers grease, and this can easily be picked up at any hardware store in the plumbing section.

2. The Drain is Leaking

A leaky lift and turn tub drain is a nuisance and can lead to water damage. The leak usually originates from one of two places: around the stopper or between the drain flange and the tub.

How to Fix It:

1. Check the Stopper Seal: Inspect the rubber O-ring (or seal) on the stopper. If it's cracked, worn, or missing, it needs to be replaced. You can usually find replacement O-rings at your local hardware store or online. Measure the old O-ring to ensure you get the correct size.
2. Tighten the Drain Flange: If the leak is between the drain flange and the tub, the flange may be loose. To tighten it, you'll need a tub drain wrench (also called a "dumbell wrench"), often found for less than $15.

• Tools for the Job: Consider the Oatey Touch-Toe Drain Wrench. This is the perfect tool for fixing a leaking tub drain.
  • Key Features: Its dumbbell design allows for easy gripping and exceptional leverage for tightening and loosening the drain flange during a tub drain replacement. These two attributes allow you to stop the leak at the source in the most effective way possible.
• Why We Like It: The Oatey Touch-Toe Drain Wrench is an affordable, but effective mechanism for fixing that tub drain leak that's been haunting you. Once you get this tool, you're on your way to solving your leaky tub drain issues. The peace of mind you'll get with a watertight drain is worth every pretty penny!

3. Remove and Reseal the Drain Flange (If Necessary): If tightening the flange doesn't stop the leak, you may need to remove it completely and reseal it. This involves a few more steps:
   • Shut off the water supply to the tub faucet.
   • Loosen the drain flange by turning it counterclockwise with your tub drain wrench. You'll likely need quite a bit of force.
   • From underneath the tub, disconnect the drain pipe from the drain shoe (the part that connects to the drain flange from above). This usually involves loosening a slip nut.
   • Remove the old plumber's putty: You'll find old, dried plumber's putty around the tub flange.
   • Clean the area thoroughly with a scrub brush and cleaner. Make sure the surface is completely clean and dry.
   • Apply fresh plumber's putty: Roll the pumber's putty into a rope shape that goes around the underside of the drain flange.
   • Reinstall the drain flange by connecting from underneath, as well as tightening the flange from above.
   • Turn Water Back on: Test for leaks. If the drain is still leaking, you may need to replace the entire drain assembly.

3. The Drain is Draining Slowly

A slow-draining tub is a frustrating problem. Again, the culprit is usually hair and soap scum buildup in the drainpipe.

How to Fix It:

1. Remove the Stopper and Check for Obstructions: As before, remove the stopper and visually inspect the drain opening for any visible obstructions. Remove any hair or debris you can reach.
2. Use a Drain Snake (Auger): A drain snake is a flexible tool that can be inserted into the drainpipe to break up and remove clogs.
   • Insert the drain snake into the drain opening and push it down as far as it will go.
   • Rotate and push the snake to break up the clog.
   • Pull the snake out, removing any debris that comes with it. Repeat this process until the drain is clear.
3. Try Baking Soda and Vinegar: This is a natural and effective way to clear minor clogs.
   • Pour one cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by one cup of white vinegar.
   • Let the mixture fizz for 30 minutes.
   • Flush the drain with hot water. Repeat if necessary.
4. Consider a Commercial Drain Cleaner (Use with Caution): If other methods fail, you can try a commercial drain cleaner. However, use these products with caution, as they can be harsh on your pipes and the environment. Follow the instructions on the label carefully and wear gloves and eye protection. Avoid mixing different types of drain cleaners, as this can create dangerous fumes.

4. The Stopper Won't Stay Open (or Closed)

If the stopper keeps slipping back down when you try to open it, or vice versa, the adjustment mechanism may be loose. This typically involves a small set screw or adjustment nut on the stopper.

How to Fix It:

1. Locate the Set Screw or Adjustment Nut: Examine the stopper for a small set screw or adjustment nut. It may be located on the side of the stopper or underneath the screw that holds the stopper to the drain body. Not all lift and turn drains have this adjustment.
2. Tighten the Set Screw or Adjust the Nut: Using a small screwdriver or wrench, tighten the set screw or adjust the nut. A small adjustment can make a big difference.
3. Test the Stopper: After making the adjustment, test the stopper by lifting and turning it. It should now stay in the open or closed position without slipping. If not, repeat the adjustment process until it works properly.
4. Replace your drain: At this point, your lift and turn may not be working as optimally as possible. Consider taking the plunge and replacing the drain. Often, after years of use, it's challenging to salvage a broken lift and turn drain.

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Having the right tools makes these fixes much easier. Here are a few essentials:

• Screwdrivers (Phillips and Flathead): For removing and adjusting screws on the stopper.
• Pliers: For gripping and manipulating small parts.
• Old Toothbrush or Cleaning Tool: For cleaning the stopper and drain housing.
• Tub Drain Wrench: For tightening or removing the drain flange.
• Drain Snake (Auger): For clearing clogs in the drainpipe.
• Plumber's Putty: For sealing the drain flange to the tub.
• Silicone-Based Lubricant: For lubricating the stopper mechanism.

Besides the Oatey Touch-Toe Drain Wrench mentioned earlier, consider the following product suggestions for your lift and turn tub drain repairs:

• FlexiSnake Drain Weasel Sink Snake Drain Cleaner: This versatile tool can tackle hair and debris clogs in your tub drain with ease.
  • Key Features: Its slim, flexible design allows it to navigate tight bends in the drainpipe, effectively grabbing and removing stubborn clogs. It's reusable and much more environmentally friendly than chemical drain cleaners.
  • Why We Like It: The FlexiSnake Drain Weasel is a must-have for any homeowner. It's affordable, easy to use, and saves you from the hassle and expense of calling a plumber for minor clogs.

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Q: How often should I clean my lift and turn tub drain?

• Ideally, you should clean your drain at least once a month to prevent buildup and clogs. More frequent cleaning may be necessary if you have long hair or use a lot of bath products.

Q: Can I use bleach to clean my drain?

• While bleach can help disinfect and deodorize, it's not very effective at dissolving hair or soap scum. It can also damage some types of pipes. Stick to baking soda and vinegar or a drain snake for better results.

Q: My lift and turn drain is old and corroded. Should I replace it?

• If your drain is severely corroded or damaged, it's best to replace it. A new drain will function more reliably and prevent leaks. Replacing a drain can be a DIY project, but if you're not comfortable with plumbing, it's best to call a professional.

Q: The stopper is stuck so hard I can't remove it. What should I do?

• Try soaking the stopper with hot water and a little dish soap. This can help loosen the debris that's causing it to stick. You can also try using a penetrating oil like WD-40, but be careful not to get it on the finish of your tub. Let it sit for a few minutes before attempting to remove the stopper.

Pro-Tip: Pour boiling water down your drain every week. This helps to eliminate build up and can help limit future problems.

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Fixing lift and turn tub drain problems doesn't have to be a daunting task. By following these simple steps, you can often resolve common issues quickly and easily. Remember to take your time, be patient, and don't be afraid to experiment. With a little effort, you can keep your tub drain flowing smoothly and avoid costly plumbing repairs. Now go forth and conquer that drain! <br><a href="https://www.amazon.com/s?k=lift and turn tub drain&sort=price-asc-rank&tag=bestbathroomrenovation-20">[Shop Budget-Friendly lift and turn tub drain on Amazon.]</a><br>