Bathtub Plumbing 101

Components of a Bathtub

• Drain: This is the opening at the bottom of the tub that allows water to exit. A drain stopper is placed over the drain to hold water in the tub.
• Overflow drain: As the name suggests, this is an extra opening at the top of the tub body that allows excess water to flow back into the drain pipes. The opening prevents a bathtub from overflowing once the water reaches a certain level.
• Trap: This is a U-shaped fixture installed beneath the drain to prevent sewer gases from entering your home. Bathtub traps are more prone to clogging and harder to clean out than sink traps. If the trap is dry or malfunctions, sewer gas can enter the tub and turn your bathroom into a smelly, unpleasant place.
• Water supply system: This consists of a faucet, spout, and diverter valve. They all work together to control the flow of water to the bathtub.

If any of these components are in disrepair, call a professional plumber specializing in bathroom plumbing to perform an in-depth inspection and make the necessary repairs. Here at Rooter Plumbing, we are on standby to help you keep your bathtub in great shape. Whether you need minor repairs or it’s time to replace the entire fixture, our team is here to help.

Common Plumbing Problems Associated With Bathtubs

• Slow-draining bathtub

This is one of the most common bathtub problems homeowners encounter. Soap scum, hair, and mineral deposits are the major culprits behind a clogged bathtub drain. A slow-draining bathtub can be a real inconvenience, not to mention a breeding ground for bacteria and mold. Luckily, clearing a clogged bathtub drain is a pretty easy job if you have a plunger or drain snake. Use a drain snake or plunger to clear the clog. If the problem persists, there could be a larger plumbing issue, such as pipe damage or mineral deposits in the drain lines. Contact a professional plumbing repair service for professional bathtub drain cleaning.

• Sewer gas entering the tub

A sewer gas leak occurs due to a dried-up trap or buildup stuck in the drain pipes. As we’ve already mentioned, the function of a trap beneath the drain is to prevent sewer gas leaks. If the trap is dry or damaged, sewer gas can escape and enter your bathroom. The solution is to ensure the trap is always full of water. If it's faulty, you'll need to call a plumbing service to replace the trap.

• Cracked or Chipped Tub

A cracked, chipped, or stained bathtub is not just an eyesore; it can also be a major safety hazard. Your bathtub can crack or become stained due to normal wear and tear. Neglect can also accelerate these problems. Having a professional plumber replace your bathtub is more than just an upgrade—it’s an investment in your comfort and home’s value.

Professional Bathroom Plumbing Services

Rooter Man Plumbing is a trusted plumbing company that proudly offers a wide range of bathroom plumbing services. Some of the services we offer include bathtub installation, showerhead repair, shower drain cleaning, bathroom sink repair, toilet replacement, and many more.