A slow-draining bathtub isn’t just annoying—it’s one of those little things that can ruin the vibe of a relaxing shower. The good news? If your tub is draining slower than usual, there’s a good chance you can fix it yourself with a few simple steps.
Here’s how to tackle the most common causes of a clogged or sluggish bathtub drain—before calling in a pro.
Step 1: Identify Your Drain Type
Lift-and-Turn Drain
Most tubs installed in the last 15 years use a lift-and-turn style stopper. You’ll recognize it by the small knob on top of the drain that you twist to open and close.
To remove it:
- Make sure the stopper is in the down (closed) position.
- Twist the textured knob counterclockwise to unscrew it.
- If it’s been in place a long time, it might be a little stubborn. A pair of channel locks (pliers) can help loosen it gently.
Once it’s out, brace yourself—you’ll likely find a nasty tangle of hair and soap scum underneath. Remove the buildup, run some hot water, and your drain should flow like new.
Lift-Rod Drain
If your tub has a lift-rod style stopper (where you pull up a lever to open the drain), the fix is also pretty simple.
To remove it:
- Just pull the stopper straight up.
- Some models have a small mechanism you may need to wiggle, but most should slide out with minimal effort.
Reinstalling these can be a little tricky, but we believe in you.
Still Slow? It Might Be Time for a Pro
If removing the stopper and clearing the gunk doesn’t fix the issue, there could be a deeper clog in the line—or something more complex going on with your plumbing system. That’s when it’s smart to call in a licensed professional.
Don’t let a slow drain linger. Left unchecked, it could lead to bigger issues (or a fully clogged tub when you least expect it).
Just Call Radiant.
Our licensed plumbing pros can quickly clear out tough clogs and diagnose any underlying issues. Schedule online today and get your drain—and your day—back on track.
