bathtub trip lever fell off

Bathtub Drain Stopper Broke Off: What Do You Do Now?

The drain stopper in your bathtub is a tiny tool. You may not even notice the presence of the drain stopper unless it starts showing problems. The stopper allows you to keep the water in the bathtub for use and then empty it when not required.

However, the problem started when the bathtub drain stopper broke off and failed to keep the water in the tub. Thus, the water from the faucet will immediately empty into the drainpipe. Thus, you must find a way to remove and replace the broken drain stopper in your bathroom. It is also essential to clean the drainpipe to avoid clogs.

We will show you the different types of drain stoppers and ways to remove and clean them. So, stay with us for a well-maintained bathtub and bathroom.

Types of Bathtub Drain Stoppers:

When you see that the drain stopper in your bathroom has broken off and needs replacement, you can’t just act instantly. First, you must identify the type of drain stopper your bathtub has. It is essential since the removal and cleaning process for the different drain stoppers varies too.

• Toe touch stopper: As the name suggests, you can open and close this stopper system with your toes. It will open or close when you touch the stopper with your toes.
• Push-pull stopper: There’s a knob at its center. When you push the knob, the stopper closes. It opens as you pull the stopper.
• Lift and turn stopper: You first need to lift the stopper and then turn it. The stopper opens and closes as you turn it in the opposite direction.
• Flip-it stopper: This stopper features a toggle. The stopper closes and opens when you flip it from one side to another.
• Plunger-style stoppers: The plunger drain stopper will use a turn style or trip lever system for opening and closing. If the overflow system activates, this stopper will get low or rise to adjust with the water flow. Often, this system remains invisible.
• Pop-up stopper: Likewise, the plunger-style stoppers, likewise, the plunger-style stoppers have a turn style or trip-over mechanism for their operation. There will be a rocker’s arm. It connects with the stopper and moves the internal push rod. As you move the push rod, the stopper lowers or rises to adjust the movement and water flow.

You see that there’re many drain stoppers for the bathtub and faucets. Once you find the right type, you can start removing and cleaning it.

How to Remove a Broken Bathtub Drain Stopper

You should now know the drain stopper your bathtub has. So, it’s time to see the removal process of the broken stopper. First, we will discuss the main drain stopper removal process in detail. So, when you see the stopper in the bathroom broken, you can follow one of these processes.

Removal tips for a push-pull drain stopper:

You can remove this stopper with a flathead screwdriver with ease. It will only take 10 minutes or less. Its steps are:

• Ensure that the stopper is in the open position. You must turn the top of the shaft counterclockwise as you hold the shaft cylinder.
• Sometimes the shaft cylinder may also turn as you turn its top. If it happens, release the cylinder of the shaft.
• You will see threads connecting with the shaft cylinder. Once you remove the stopper, you can remove the threads and pry off the cylinder.
• If your stopper has a top cap, pry it off with the flathead screwdriver. Then, access the cylinder and hold its top. Now, you can remove the stopper.
• You have to unscrew the threaded cylinder by moving it counterclockwise. If the cylinder has a screwdriver slot, you may quickly take it off using the screwdriver.

The Removal Process of a Lift and Turn Drain Stopper:

You will need an Allen wrench and flathead screwdriver to remove the stopper from the bathtub drain. At first, hold the stopper as it remains in the open position. Then, start turning the knob until you find the set screw within it.

Sometimes the knob may not have the screws. In this case, turn the stopper counterclockwise. It will unthread the strainer and stopper. Now you may lift the stopper. If you find lifting the stopper, the thread of it may have got damaged. Hence, you must apply upward pressure and then remove the drain stopper.

For the visible set screw, observe the type of lift and turn bathtub drain stopper you have. It includes:

• Visible set screw underneath the stopper
• The channel around the drain stopper

For the screw underneath the stopper:

Keep the stopper in the open position at first. Then, life and turn the stopper to find the small screw. Use an Allen wrench or screwdriver to lose and pry off the screw. Now, try removing the stopper. If it still doesn’t come out, try loosening the set screw further. Then, you can remove it to clean the drain pipe with a plumbing snake.

For the channel around the drain stopper:

See the filter closely. There is a pin on it. The channel completes the turn and lifts action by moving the pin around the strainer. First, you must rotate the stopper counterclockwise by lifting it slightly. The slot will align with the pin. It releases the stopper from the pin. Now, you can lift it upwards.

If the stopper fails to remove, apply pressure on the post to remove it. If rust and residues stop it from removal, apply WD-40 commercial cleaner. It helps you unscrew and remove the stopper.

Removing Tips for the Push-Pull Drain Stopper:

You will need pliers, a rag, and a flathead screwdriver to remove and clean the push-pull drain stopper from the bathtub.

• First, remove the knob from the stopper. It doesn’t matter whether the stopper is open or closed.
• Hold the stopper’s body firmly. Then, use your other hand to unscrew the stopper knob with the screwdriver.
• Sometimes the screw may not move. In this case, wrap it with the rag and move it with the pliers set.
• Inside the stopper, the center is a brass insertion. You also need to remove it to pry off the stopper from the post finally.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• Can a tub stopper be replaced?

Yes, the drain tub stopper is replaceable. Once you remove the stopper following our suggestions, you can buy and install a new tub stopper.

• What can I use to replace a bathtub drain stopper?

As you replace the bathtub drain stopper, you may use an empty pod to block the drain opening. Plus, you may use a medicine cup of 15ml size.

• Can I use silicone to seal the bathtub drain?

Silicone caulk will effectively block and seal the bathtub drain. The sealing will stop mold, corrosion, and rust growth inside it.

Seeing the bathtub drain stopper broke off can be a harrowing experience. It will stop the tub from holding the water. Also, it allows the odor from the draining pipe to enter the bathroom. When the stopper is broken, you must remove and replace it ASAP. For this, find the right type of drain stopper. Then, follow our suggestion for this particular stopper-type removal step.

The removal and replacement process of the drain stopper is straightforward. So, this DIY project of stopper removal is fun too.

Paul Newman is a blogger who writes about plumbing and home improvement. Over the past 20 years, I have worked as a plumber. My passion is to share my knowledge and experience with others to improve their homes.

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2 thoughts on “Bathtub Drain Stopper Broke Off: What Do You Do Now?”

How do I remove a lift and turn stopper if the middle part broke off at the bottom? I can’t get the piece out left at the bottom.

You can remove it using needle-nose pliers or a flat-head screwdriver. In case the broken piece is lodged deep, you can use a hair catcher or a plumber’s snake. If it is more extreme, then you might need to disassemble the drain pipe from below to remove the broken piece. For this, you need to locate the p-trap (the curved pipe) beneath the sink, unscrew it carefully, and remove the obstruction. Be sure to have a bucket on hand to catch any water that may be left in the pipe.

You can also see our other article, there are similar problem. It might help. Check here the https://myupgradehome.com/how-to-get-a-cap-out-of-a-bathroom-sink-drain/ .

Hopefully the method will work. If you still face problem don’t hesitate to ask again. Thank you.

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Bathtub Trip Lever Up Or Down To Drain?

Should the bathtub trip lever be up or down to drain? If you have ever seen that little lever in a bathtub, you may wonder what it really is. Those are the trip levers and …

Written by: David Z

Published on: September 23, 2024

Table of content:

Should the bathtub trip lever be up or down to drain ? If you have ever seen that little lever in a bathtub , you may wonder what it really is. Those are the trip levers and their positioning – up or down – matters for the function that they are serving.

Whether your bathtub has a strainer or a stopper , that trip lever basically works the same no matter what style of tub that you have. By moving it, you adjust the height of a weight that is connected to the lever, usually through a series of rods.

Here is all you could want to know on the matter, from proper positioning to installation and more.

Should the bathtub trip lever be up or down?

The bath trip lever is attached to weights which controls how the bathtub drains water. When the trip lever is down the weights are lifted which allows for the water to drain . When the trip lever is up, the weights are lowered which stops the water from draining. 

Remember that the lever is tied to weights, usually a few rods, that control whether or not the drain is open or closed.

Those weights have to be activated one way or another to work properly. To get the drain to close, keeping the water in the tub , you would need to switch the lever upwards.

On the flip side, lowering the lever has the inverse impact. When the lever is lowered, the weight is lifted and the drain opens up. Keep in mind, however, that there are exterior stoppers that can be placed over your drain .

In that case, even when the drain is open, it won’t drain the water out because the stopper is in its way. No matter how you cut it, the positioning of the lever makes an impact.

If you are trying to keep the water in the tub , you need to make sure that lever is working properly. Otherwise, you may go to flip the drain shut only to find out that it isn’t doing its job.

The way to defeat this is through effective installation. Most of the time, fixes can be made by adjusting the linkage to a more suitable length.

How to Install a Tub Drain Trip Lever

Let’s say that you are replacing your old tub and installing a new one. Or you may be making repairs or changes to the old one.

Whatever the situation may be, you are looking at needing to replace the drain trip lever for a new one. The process of installing a new one is relatively straightforward .

It can also control the ease in which you can open and close your tub ’s drain . The good news is that even if it isn’t installed properly, you can go back and make adjustments accordingly.

Start by unscrewing and removing the overflow cover that is already in place. If there isn’t one, don’t worry; not every tub will have an overflow cover.

If you do have one, you can simply get rid of it since the lever will come attached to another cover that is the same size.

You can locate the overflow cover by looking just above the drain and right beneath the spout. Use your screwdriver to unscrew the old one and remove it.

Take a look at the lever mechanism . Depending on your tub , there are a couple of things that you may find. You should find that it has a cylindrical weight that is attached to a linkage that is ultimately attached to your tub ’s lever.

You can get a visual representation of how it works here. Lowering or lifting the lever should have a corresponding reaction.

Feed the linkage and the weight into the overflow hole. Let the weight drop on its own. Then, install your lever cover onto the overflow hole.

Do so by inserting the machine screws that came with the assembly into the two holes on the inside of the overflow hole and into the cover plate as well.

You don’t have to tighten the screws fully, just make sure that they are secure enough to hold the plate into place.

Test out the lever, adjusting the length of the linkage as you need to. When the drain doesn’t have a stopper and you still can’t lift that lever all the way up, then the weight is dropping too quickly into the opening of the drain .

Take the cover off and lift that linkage out. One rod has adjustment screws and is threaded. Give them a counterclockwise turn using your pliers to shorten the linkage . Just a turn should do it. Reinstall and give it another test.

Try lowering the lever and filling the tub with a little water. You would do this after shortening the linkage just enough that you can lift the lever up entirely.

Keep an eye on the water; if it drains, go back and lengthen those adjustment screws. Having a better understanding of the adjustment screws will go a long way toward DIY troubleshooting the issue (and others related to it).

Use a procedure that is similar in nature when adjusting the linkage for your drain stopper . When you install the linkage , make sure that you screw on your cover plate and then try lowering the lever.

When working properly, the dropper should fall and the drain will seal. If it doesn’t do this, the most likely reason is because the linkage needs to be shortened even further.

Lift the lever back up all the way to verify that the stopper opens. If it doesn’t, you know that the linkage is again at fault. Make an adjustment until the tub begins to drain out properly.

When you are done making your adjustments, simply tighten the screws that hold the lever cover in place to the overflow hole.

Because of the ease of access and adjustment, you can take a look whenever you think that your lever mechanism is not properly functioning.

It really is a fast and easy adjustment or installation to make. Moreover, it will save some headaches when the time comes to use the lever.

Bathtub Trip Lever Not Working (How To Fix)

Sometimes the drain trip lever will not work properly. You will likely either find yourself in a position where the water doesn’t drain or you can’t keep the drain clogged long enough to fill the tub up with water.

The good news is that you can adjust the linkage in relatively short order. It is simply a matter of adjusting that linkage .

Unfortunately, there is no scientific way of handling it; it is a lot of trial and error. Further, you may have to remove the linkage entirely to get to the root of the problem.

Should your tub have a pop-up stopper , the linkage will connect to the handle through a spring-loaded mechanism . When the stopper does not open, you can typically lengthen the linkage – not shorten it – to fix the problem.

Really, it is a lot of trial and error with a bit of patience mixed in. The good news is that with some adjustable pliers and a screwdriver, you can fix most of these issues in relatively short order.

Bathtub Drain Lever Won’t Stay Down

If the lever will not stay down, there is an issue with the linkage at some point. Either the weight is stuck or the lever is simply detached, you will find that your tub is not draining the way that it is meant to drain .

Most of the time, you can simply tighten the linkage to the lever and go back to normal. That said, there are times when the lever system becomes damaged and needs replacing. Installation is simple (just follow the steps above) and relatively pain free.

[naaa bestseller=”Bathtub Trip Lever” template=”horizontal” max=5]

Hello, my name is David Zal and I’m a plumber with more than 20 years of experience based in Englewood (Florida). I like to teach normal people how to make easy fixes in their homes. I believe that a lot can be achieved just with DYI and that’s why I started this blog.

1 thought on “Bathtub Trip Lever Up Or Down To Drain?”

I couldn’t get my trip lever to stay in the down position for the water to drain. I replace the trip lever, weight and adjustment bracket with all new parts. After numerous tries to get it adjusted so that the stopper would hold the water in, I reassembled everything and now it is doing the same thing. It will stay in the up position ok but will not stay in the down position to let the water out without holding it down. Can’t figure this on out?

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Hot Tub Or Swimming Pool Bonding Requirements

Best non slip bathtub treatment (non slip tub solutions).

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• Plumbing Forum, Professional & DIY Advice

Tub Drain plunger separated from linkage, stuck in drain pipe

• Thread starter thehausmaus
• Start date May 2, 2014

Users who are viewing this thread

thehausmaus

• May 2, 2014

Hello -- I am new to plumbing so please excuse any incorrect terminology. We have a tub that recently started draining slowly and now drains very slowly. I initially plunged which didn't help. I then went to use a snake and opened up the overflow. When I took out the tub stopper, I found that there was no plunger attached to the linkage and it had appeared to unscrew itself from the linkage threads (undamaged, so it didn't break off). Using a wire, we determined that the stopper appears to be just below the drain shoe. We tried using the wire and also a magnet to get the item but they did not work (item may be brass). There is an access panel in the closet behind the tub. One idea is to loosen the slip nut to the pipe between the overflow and the t connector and hope to be able to reach the stopper. Any other thoughts or ideas? Thank you!  

Your plan would also be my first choice for a repair attempt.  

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Master Plumber

• May 3, 2014

It IS brass. I would make a "V" on the end of a wire, then slide it down the drain line until it went THROUGH the "bucket" then pull it back up to try to catch the crossbar. Once that is done, hopefully the bucket is not corroded in place, you can pull it out. If it is corroded, sometimes flooding the overflow with PB Blaster or WD-40 will loosen it enough so you can extract it. If it were I doing it, there are other things I could try until it did come out, or the crossbar broke, but nothing I could describe to you.  

hj said: It IS brass. I would make a "V" on the end of a wire, then slide it down the drain line until it went THROUGH the "bucket" then pull it back up to try to catch the crossbar. Once that is done, hopefully the bucket is not corroded in place, you can pull it out. If it is corroded, sometimes flooding the overflow with PB Blaster or WD-40 will loosen it enough so you can extract it. If it were I doing it, there are other things I could try until it did come out, or the crossbar broke, but nothing I could describe to you. Click to expand...

The Plumbing Wizard

The drain pipe looks the same and I do believe our system is a trip lever. Our drain lever (#3) rotates, does not move up and down. When we pulled off the lever and pulled out the linkage (#7?), it only had one threaded bar with a nut on it, no hook or eyelet at the end. We thought we could find a wrench to remove the slip nut (#13) to try and get into the pipe, but haven't found something in the correct size that can also fit in the tight space in the access panel. If pictures would be more useful, please let me know. Thank you so much for your help. I am going to find a better piece of wire to try and do more fishing.  

• May 4, 2014

Your threaded piece screwed into a "bracket" on the end of a rod. The "bucket" is attached to the rod with a loop in the end of it through a hole in the crosspiece.  

• May 5, 2014

Just to update: We called a professional. The drain lever likely connected to a spring which connected to a plunger mechanism. Based on the age of everything (70 yro pipes), it likely disintegrated/disappeared/broke a long time ago. We were able to fix the drainage using a super plunger (sorry I don't know the technical term). We probably didn't have great plunging technique to start with. There is not a p-trap but an arc (?) trap which makes it difficult to snake which is why we had issues. Thank you everyone for your help. While trouble is never fun, I am glad to have learned a lot more about the systems in my house.  

aMommaTryinHerBest!

Im an excellent diyer most x'z get myself n sit&.

• Jan 3, 2018

My bucket/plunger is also stuck down in the pipes somewhere and cant get it out! I tried the wire into a V shape trick... But pretty sure it is now hooked onto piece i want out but wont budge and now wire is now stuck also! Please help!  

Attachments

This is what i have left of the triple lever system...  

hj said: Your threaded piece screwed into a "bracket" on the end of a rod. The "bucket" is attached to the rod with a loop in the end of it through a hole in the crosspiece. Click to expand...

Sometimes it's just a matter of slowing down a bit and trying, thinking, and making adjustments. You will have most of the parts still in the drain. If you can hook the bucket, you still have some parts above that to contend with. You have some time to play with that. You might need some thinner wire...........maybe.  

This Man is a genius! THANK YOU!  

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How to Fix a Sticky/Broken Trip-Lever Bathtub Stopper

There are many types of bathtub drain stoppers but the trip-lever bathtub stopper is the most common. Unlike other types of stoppers, it is usually installed on the overflow drain plate and hence the bottom of the tub is just so smooth.

After years of usage, especially in areas with hard water, the trip-lever tub stopper starts to stick inside the overflow pipe. This problem can either make your bathtub to drain slowly or not hold water when you want to fill it.

A sticky trip-lever bathtub stopper is caused by gunk, hair, soap scum and mineral deposits in the overflow drain. This affects the up and down movement of the stopper’s plunger making it stick on the overflow pipe. You will notice that your bathtub will have problems draining and/or holding water.

Here is how to fix a sticky trip-lever tub stopper:

• Access the Trip Lever : Remove the overflow plate cover on the bathtub’s wall, typically secured with screws, to access the trip lever and linkage.
• Inspect the Linkage : Check the condition of the linkage, including the lever arm, connecting rod, and spring. If any parts are broken or damaged, they may need replacement.
• Adjust the Linkage : If the linkage is simply sticky or not functioning correctly, you can often fix it by adjusting the length or position of the connecting rod. To adjust, loosen the screw or nut on the connecting rod, move it to the desired position, and then tighten it again.
• Clean and Lubricate : If the linkage is sticking due to grime or corrosion, clean it thoroughly and apply a silicone-based lubricant to ensure smooth operation.
• Test the Stopper : Operate the trip lever to check if the stopper now functions correctly. It should open and close smoothly.
• Reassemble and Secure : Reattach the overflow plate cover securely, making sure it aligns with the trip lever and linkage.
• Test the Stopper Again : Fill the tub with water and operate the trip lever to verify that the stopper seals properly and holds water without leaking.
• Replace Damaged Parts (if needed) : If the linkage or any components are severely damaged and cannot be repaired, consider replacing them with compatible parts available at hardware stores.

How Does a Trip-Lever Bathtub Work?

A trip-lever bathtub stopper has 4 parts:

• Toggle lever
• 2 link rods
• The plunger

Of the 4 parts, only the toggle lever is visible. It is the small switch on the overflow drain plate. You usually flip it up to close the bathtub drain and down to open it.

Inside the overflow drain, 2 link rods are connected to the plunger. The upper rod is usually threaded. The reason for this is to adjust the total length of the assembly, to fit bathtubs of different heights.

When you flip the toggle lever up, the plunger drops down and sits at the junction where the overflow drain meets the bathtub drainpipe. At that point, the plunger restricts water from flowing down the drain and the tub is ready to fill with water.

When you flip the toggle lever down, the link rods lift off the plunger from the junction and hence opening the drain. At that point the bathtub will start to drain.

In case you are not aware, the overflow drain is the bathtub’s failsafe. When the level of water in the bathtub reaches it, the excess water flows via it down the drain. This prevents the bathtub from overflowing and thus flooding the bathroom.

If your trip-lever tub stopper is getting stuck somewhere in the overflow drain, it also means that your overflow drain integrity is compromised. It is therefore best to fix it as soon as possible.

What Causes the Problem?

The number one cause for sticky trip-lever bathtub stoppers is hard water. Folks who live in areas with hard water will experience this problem. Apart from a sticky trip-lever stopper, you might also have hard water stains in your bathtub, toilets and sinks.

The 2 most notorious minerals are calcium and iron. This mineral deposits are embedded on the stopper plunger making it bigger relative to the internal diameter of the of the overflow drain. As a result, the free up and down movement of the plunger is restricted, making it stick on the inner walls of the overflow.

As you take a bath, strands of hair are washed down the bathtub drain. While most of them wash away, some of them are trapped inside the drain and are picked up by the stopper. Continued accumulation of this hairs will without a doubt make the stopper sticky.

Soap scum and other debris will also contribute to this problem. Just like the case with hair, the scum takes time to build up and you will notice that the stopper does not become sticky at once. It starts off as a minor issue and deteriorates with time.

How to Fix It

Fortunately, fixing a sticky bathtub stopper is very easy. You will however need a few materials upfront. These are:

• Screwdriver
• Emery cloth/sand paper
• WD-40 (optional)
• New bathtub stopper (optional)

Once you have gathered your supplies, it is time to get down to work. Follow these steps to fix a sticky trip-lever bathtub stopper:

1. Remove the Stopper

• Locate the overflow drain on the side of the tub where the toggle lever is.
• On the plate, you will see 2 screws joining the plate to the tub. Use the screwdriver to remove the screws.
• Once the screws are out, hold the plate and lever and try to pull the whole assembly out slowly, ideally upwards and then outwards. Don’t force it out.
• If you find that the assembly is stuck spray some WD-40 inside the overflow drain and wait for 15 minutes.
• After that pulling out the assembly should be easy.

2. Inspect and Clean the Plunger

• Once the trip-lever stopper assembly is out, pour a generous amount of dish soap down the overflow tube. Alternatively you can use other drain cleaners that you have in the house. Give it time to work as you focus on the stopper.
• Keenly inspect the surface of the trip-lever stopper plunger. Can you see rust or calcium mineral deposit all over it?
• Grab an emery cloth/sand paper and scrub off all the minerals deposits from the plunger.
• Apply a decent amount of grease on the plunger to lubricate it.
• Insert a funnel in the overflow opening and blast hot water down the overflow pipe. The hot water combined with the dish soap will dissolve and wash down any type of gunk trapped inside the pipe.

If you notice that the bathtub stopper is in pretty bad shape, you can opt to buy a new bathtub stopper. A new bathtub stopper will serve you well for the next 15 years or thereabout. T his one here from Amazon is a decent one.

3. Install the Bathtub Stopper

• Lift the whole stopper assembly in your hand and make sure that it is all clean and straight. Often the 2 link rods get entangled shortening the overall length of the assembly. In that case you will find that the stopper is not travelling the full length as it should and your bathtub will not hold water.
• Put the assembly back down the overflow opening, again being careful not to have the 2 rods entangled.
• Insert the cover plate and the 2 screws back in place and tighten them with the screwdriver.

Try to flip the toggle lever up and down. I am sure you will find it so easy this time round. And that is how to fix a sticky trip-lever bathtub stopper.

How to Remove a Broken Bathtub Drain Stopper

Sometimes the plunger breaks off from the link mechanism and falls at the bottom of the overflow drain. In that case, you will notice that your bathtub cannot drain.

Here is how to quickly remove a broken trip-lever bathtub stopper plunger:

• Start by unscrewing the overflow drain plate.
• Pull out the assembly so that only the plunger is left lying at the bottom of the overflow.
• Grab a wire coat hanger from the closet and straighten it with a pair of pliers.
• Bend it so that it can go down the overflow drain freely.
• Next make a small hook on one end the wire.
• Push the wire down the overflow drain and attempt to hook and fish out the plunger. It can take a while to grab it. Some people are lucky enough to hook it up the first time
• If you don’t have a coat hanger or if you want some flexibility, use a shoe lace and a bent paper clip.

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How Do I Retrieve A Detached Plunger From A Bathtub Drain? Solving A Common Bathtub Problem

Water no longer drains off your bathtub fast. Why? It’s glaring that the plunger has detached from the linkage. Since water doesn’t drain off the bathtub quickly as expected, using it would be quite a challenge. 

You have tried all you could without success. Now, you’re seeking an answer to the question, how do I retrieve a detached plunger from a bathtub drain? 

Do the above scenarios sound like something you’re currently experiencing? If yes, you have come to the right place! 

We’ll discuss how to retrieve a detached plunger and share other tips you may find valuable on this post. Keep reading!

Retrieving A Detached Plunger From A Bathtub Drain

You can remove the plunger from any bathtub in diverse ways. You would only require a couple of tools to get it done. The good thing is you don’t need many tools for each method. Furthermore, the tools are also pocket-friendly. 

Let’s discuss different ways to remove a plunger that has detached itself from the linkage and is now making it difficult for water to drain off the bathtub quickly.      

Method 1: Using a hook to retrieve the detached plunger:

Please follow the step below if you’re comfortable using this method. 

#1: Unscrew the cover plate:

Your first move should be to loosen the cover plate to remove the trip lever and linkage, leaving the plunger inside. 

Typically, you are going to find the plunger attached to the linkage. But it broke and then fell inside the bathtub. That’s what you’re trying to retrieve, by the way.

Please, after removing both felt screws using your screwdriver, keep them somewhere you can easily remember. You don’t want to be looking for screws once it’s time to fix the cover plate to how it was. 

#2: Remove the assembly (trip lever and linkage):

Now that you have unscrewed the cover plate, carefully pull the trip lever and linkage assembly off the bathtub. Once you have done that, please keep it on one side and begin the next process. 

A Handy Tip:  If you notice that the linkage has a breakage, don’t try to fix it back. You can’t do anything besides changing the entire stopper. But you still have to remove the detached plunger from the bathtub.    

#3: Deploy a C-hook:

Get a C-hook to fetch the detached plunger in the bathtub. Try to open the C-hook a bit using a plier, and have the screw head wrapped with string. 

Continue the next process once you have done that and are confident that the string is firmly attached to the C-hook. 

What you need to do next is to lower the assembly (C-hook and string) into the hole. Try to hook the plunger and have it pulled out. 

You might find it difficult to hook the detached plug in the bathtub on your first try. But that shouldn’t stop you from trying harder. 

A Handy Tip:  It could happen that the plug’s hook wasn’t tight enough, which is why it got detached from the linkage. So, after you pull it out, use your plier to close the hook a bit. By doing so, the plunger won’t detach from the linkage with ease. 

Again, it is not a wise decision to attach a string to a plastic hook. Why? Chances are the string could get broken, or the same thing could happen to the plastic hook. It could get broken too. 

A better option would be to use a coat hanger and have the hook bent at the end. If such a hook gets stuck, it won’t break like the plastic hook. It would only bend and come out neatly without causing more problems for you. 

You also have a better chance of removing the detached plunger with a coat hanger, given that it is metal and it has some weight. The plastic hook could float and find it difficult to reach the detached plunger if the bathtub remains flooded.

A coat hanger won’t float or have problems dropping deep into the hole to retrieve the detached plunger so that the bathtub can start working properly. 

Method 2: Use a vacuum 

You can get the drain plunger out of the bathtub with the help of a vacuum. And the process is quite simple. 

All there is to do is suck the stopper up via the overflow. You can do this with a vacuum. Once it comes up, grab it using a plier and pull it out. That’s it. Your stopper is out. 

Method 3: Involve a professional

Sometimes, DIY is not the definite answer to some obstacles. It just gives you a good feeling that you tried at least. Unfortunately, the problem might persist. 

With your drain plunger detached from the linkage, causing water to drain off the bathtub slower than it should, all you can think of now is finding a solution. The solution implies removing the detached plunger so that the bathtub can become functional again.    

Please note that you might require a superior plunging technique for some cases. And that means getting a professional plumber involved. 

With a plumber present, you can rest assured you’ll get expert advice on what to do, have the right equipment to use such as a  pipe bender hire , and the solution to the problem.

How To Block A Bathtub Drain In The Absence of A Plunger

 You desperately need a hot bath to sleep or feel alright. But for that to happen, your plug or drain plunger must be working efficiently. It has to ensure the water doesn’t drain out of the bathtub whenever you fill it up. 

So, if your stopper is no longer working but you need your bathtub to hold water while you soak your stress away, try the following techniques. 

#1: Shut the drain with a lid: 

You can keep water from draining using a cover. This process is a breeze. Plus, you don’t require any unique tool. 

A plastic lid or flat jam jar lid can get the job done. Just cover the drain hole and ensure the lid is big enough to cover the drain perfectly. 

You don’t need to permanently or temporarily seal the lid with any substance or place any object on it. Just ensure it is covering the drain correctly and put your hand on it. 

The reason you’re placing your hand is to form a strong seal that will keep the lid in place. Now, start filling the bathtub with water. But don’t forget to keep your hand on the lid while doing so. 

Will the lid move out of position once you fill-up the bathtub? No, it won’t. The water’s weight will keep the cover in place. 

#2: Use the plastic bag technique:

This trick is about creating a makeshift drain. The things you need for this technique include a washcloth, sponge, and plastic sandwich bag. 

If you’re using a sponge, get it wet but ensure you have rolled it into the drain to know if it would fit into the hole. If you were using a washcloth, you also need to follow the same procedure. Both materials have to be wet but do not have too much water. 

The next step is to place either the wet sponge or washcloth in the plastic sandwich bag. Then squeeze carefully to ensure there’s no air left in the bag. Now zip the plastic bag up. Alternatively, you can seal the plastic bag with a rubber band. 

After that, fit the plastic bag containing the wet washcloth or sponge into the hole. The washcloth or sponge will expand and fill the void, giving the plastic bag a better chance of preventing water from draining from the bathtub. 

How do I retrieve a detached plunger from a bathtub drain? By reading this post, you should know the various ways to do this. As you can see, you can remove a plunger that detached itself from the link in multiple ways. 

However, if all effort fails, don’t be shy to involve a professional and save time. You can even gain some knowledge on drain plungers from a professional plumber.

But the most important thing is don’t give up. Try everything possible to get the plunger out first before thinking of reaching out to a pro plumber. If you can retrieve the plunger yourself, you will save money and prove how good your DIY skills are.    

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How To Fix a Bathtub Drain Stopper

In this video, This Old House master plumber Richard Trethewey shows how bathtub drains work, and how to fix them when they don’t.

A malfunctioning bathtub drain stopper can be a frustrating problem that prevents you from enjoying a relaxing soak. Fortunately, fixing this issue is often a simple task that doesn’t require professional help.

In this guide and accompanying video, This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey demonstrates how to diagnose and repair a faulty bathtub drain stopper.

Understanding Bathtub Drain Assemblies

Bathtub drain assemblies may seem complex, but they operate on a simple principle. A lever above the bottom of the tub controls whether water stays in the tub or drains out when bath time is over.

The standard drain assembly consists of three main components:

• A visible trip lever
• A plunger that seats in the drain to stop water
• Two pieces of threaded rod connecting the lever and plunger

These assemblies are adjustable by design, allowing them to fit a wide range of tub styles and sizes.

Common Causes of Bathtub Drain Stopper Issues

When a tub won’t hold water, there are typically three potential causes: misalignment of the assembly, an improperly seated plunger, or normal deterioration of replaceable components.

We’ll walk you through how to identify and address each issue below.

Misalignment of Components

One of the most frequent issues with bathtub drain stoppers is misalignment of the assembly components–this can occur due to normal wear and tear or improper installation. When the threaded rod, plunger, or trip lever becomes misaligned, the stopper may not create a proper seal, allowing water to drain even when the lever is in the closed position.

Incorrect Plunger Height

Drainage issues can also arise from a plunger set at the wrong height. If the plunger is set too high, it won’t create a tight seal with the drain opening, allowing water to escape. Conversely, if set too low, the stopper may not open fully, leading to slow tub drainage .

Wear and Tear

Over time, the components of a bathtub drain assembly can wear out—this includes the rubber seal on the plunger. After prolonged exposure to the elements, seals become hard and brittle, compromising their ability to create a watertight seal. The threaded rod can also corrode or bend, affecting the stopper’s operation.

Steps To Fix a Bathtub Drain Stopper

Follow these steps to repair your bathtub drain stopper:

• Prepare the work area by placing a drop cloth in the tub to prevent scratching and to catch any screws that might fall.
• Unscrew the plate that holds the trip lever using a slotted screwdriver.
• Carefully pull out the entire stopper assembly.
• Inspect the assembly for any visible damage or misalignment, particularly where the threaded rod articulates.
• To adjust the plunger height, locate the two lock nuts on the threaded rod.
• To lower the stopper, thread the bottom lock nut downward.
• Spin the adapter that the plunger hangs from down until it reaches the bottom lock nut.
• Tighten the upper lock nut against the adapter to secure the new position.
• Reinsert the plunger, threaded rod, and trip lever back into the tub’s drain hole.
• Screw the plate back into place.
• Test the repair by closing the stopper and running some water into the tub.
• If water still drains out, repeat the process and lower the plunger a bit more until the tub holds water effectively.

Trethewey demonstrates these steps in the above video, showing how simple adjustments can often solve the problem.

Troubleshooting Persistent Draining Issues

If adjusting the plunger height doesn’t solve the problem, consider these additional troubleshooting steps.

Checking for Debris

Sometimes, debris can accumulate around the drain opening, preventing a proper seal. To resolve this, remove the stopper assembly and clean the drain area thoroughly. Use a small brush to remove any buildup of soap scum, hair, or other remnants that might interfere with the stopper’s operation.

Inspecting the Seal

Examine the rubber seal on the plunger for signs of wear or damage. You’ll need to replace it if it appears cracked, brittle, or misshapen. Most hardware stores carry replacement seals that are cheap and easy to install.

Lubricating Moving Parts

To get the drain components back in smooth working order and mitigate future corrosion and friction mishaps, apply a small amount of plumber’s grease to the assembly’s moving parts. Be sure to grease the points where the threaded rod connects to the trip lever and plunger, especially.

When To Call a Professional for Your Drain Stopper Issues

While you can resolve most bathtub drain stopper issues with DIY methods, there are situations where professional help may be necessary:

• If you encounter unexpected leaks or water damage during your repair attempts
• If you’ve tried adjusting the stopper multiple times without success
• When dealing with older, non-standard plumbing fixtures that may require specialized knowledge
• When there’s visible damage to the drain or surrounding tub area

Preventing Future Bathtub Drain Issues

To keep your bathtub drain stopper functioning properly, we recommend taking these preventive measures:

• Regularly clean the drain area to prevent buildup of soap scum and debris.
• Avoid using harsh chemical cleaners that can damage rubber seals and metal components.
• Periodically check and tighten any loose screws or connections in the assembly.
• Be gentle when operating the trip lever to avoid placing undue stress on the mechanism.
• Consider installing a drain cover to catch hair and reduce the amount of debris entering the drain.

Signs It’s Time to Replace the Drain Stopper

While piecemeal repairs can fix many drain stopper issues, there are clear signs that a replacement might be a better option. Here’s what to look for.

Persistent Leaks

If you’ve adjusted and cleaned the stopper but it still leaks, the parts may be too worn to function correctly. Replacing the stopper can provide a more permanent solution.

Visible Rust or Corrosion

Over time, metal parts can rust. If you notice significant corrosion on the stopper or its components, replacing it is likely a better solution.

Other Persistent Issues

If you continue to experience problems with your tub drain despite multiple fixes to the drain assembly, it might be time to invest in a new stopper. A full-scale replacement of the stopper ensures reliable performance and can save you from having to perform future repairs.

Our Conclusion

Fixing a bathtub drain stopper is a manageable DIY project for most homeowners that doesn’t require a full tub drain removal . You can often resolve issues quickly and easily with a basic understanding of how the assembly works and some simple adjustments. Regular maintenance and gentle use can help prevent future problems.

Next Up In Plumbing

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How to Fix a Sticky Trip-Lever Bathtub Drain Stopper

Aaron Stickley is a licensed plumber with 15 years of experience in commercial, new residential plumbing, and residential service and repair. He started his own residential service and repair plumbing business. Aaron's articles about plumbing on The Spruce span four years.

The Spruce / Christopher Lee Foto

How Trip-Lever Drain Stoppers Work

How to fix a lift-bucket drain stopper, how to fix a pop-up drain stopper.

• Working Time: 30 mins
• Total Time: 30 mins
• Skill Level: Beginner
• Estimated Cost: $0 to $20

Any bathtub drain stopper that doesn't do its job is an annoying inconvenience. Usually, the problem is easy to fix, though the procedures vary depending on what type of bathtub stopper you have. Some drains have stoppers that are spring-loaded, operated by a push of the toe or hand, while others use a trip-lever mounted on the bathtub's overflow plate. A trip-lever drain stopper is more tricky than most to fix, due to its somewhat complicated mechanism.

First, it's important to understand something about how this style of bathtub drain stopper works.

The small up-and-down lever you see protruding from the overflow plate on your bathtub is connected to a vertical connecting rod inside the overflow pipe behind the front tub wall. Near the bottom of the connecting rod is a plunger of some kind—usually a weight that works by sealing the drain opening at the bottom of the overflow tube . This type of drain stopper is sometimes known as a lift bucket.

Sometimes, however, the trip lever operates a horizontal rocker arm that works a pop-up drain plug, which fits into the bathtub drain opening. In this case, the plunger device may be a type of spring that connects to the horizontal rocker arm.

The fixes for both types of drain stoppers are slightly different.

What You'll Need

Equipment / tools, for lift-bucket drain stoppers.

• Screwdriver
• Small scrub brush
• Adjustable wrench

For Pop-Up Drain Stoppers

• New plunger and linkage (if needed)
• New pop-up drain stopper (if needed)

Instructions

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

A trip-lever drain stopper that uses a lift-bucket plunger can be identified by the absence of a pop-up stopper in the drain opening. When problems occur with this type of drain, it is for one of two reasons:

• The plunger has become stuck in the overflow tube and will not move up and down freely. 
• The rod linking the trip lever to the plunger isn't adjusted properly, creating a situation in which the lift bucket plunger doesn't drop down enough to completely seal the drainpipe opening.

Remove the Cover Plate and Stopper

Back out the mounting screws that hold the overflow cover plate onto the overflow tube. Carefully remove the cover plate and extract the connecting rod and plunger through the overflow opening.

Inspect and Clean the Plunger

Clean off the plunger; debris or corrosion may be preventing it from moving smoothly in the overflow tube. If the plunger is badly corroded or damaged, the entire assembly should be replaced.

Adjust the Linkage

If necessary, adjust the linkage to lengthen the connecting rod. This will allow the plunger to fall lower in the overflow tube, ensuring that it seals the drain opening. It may take a bit of tinkering to get the connecting rod length exactly right.

Reassemble the Stopper

Insert the stopper and drain linkage back down through the overflow opening. Reattach the cover plate to the overflow tube. Turn on the water, and operate the stopper several times to make sure it is working properly.

A trip-lever drain that operates a pop-up stopper uses a slightly different mechanism. Rather than a lift-bucket plunger that seals a drain opening at the bottom of the overflow tube, there is a spring at the end of the connecting rod. This spring pushes down on a pivot arm that levers the pop-up stopper up into an open position when the trip lever is moved. When the trip lever is moved to the closed position, gravity allows the stopper to drop back down and seal the drain opening.

Problems with this type are usually evident when the pop-up stopper fails to push up enough to open the bathtub drain—it wants to stay in the closed position constantly. This is usually because the connecting rod attached to the trip lever has become shortened from use.

Remove the Cover Plate and Plunger

Back out the mounting screws that hold the overflow cover plate to the overflow tube. Carefully remove the cover plate, and extract the connecting rod and spring up through the overflow opening. (On some styles, the rocker arm on the drain stopper fits between the coils on the spring; with these, you will need to extract the drain stopper and rocker arm from the drain opening in order to free the spring.)

Clean the Spring

Clean away any debris on the spring at the end of the stopper linkage. In many cases, a build-up of hair and soap scum can cause problems with the stopper.

Adjust the Connecting Rod

If necessary, adjust the connecting rod to lengthen it. This will increase the downward force of the spring against the rocker arm when the trip-lever is operated.

Insert the stopper linkage back down through the overflow opening and attach the cover plate to the overflow tube. Turn on the water, and operate the stopper to make sure it is working correctly.

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