If you’ve ever been frustrated by a bathtub that won’t hold water, you know how frustrating it can be. There are a number of reasons why bathtubs can have water drainage problems, but fortunately, most of them can be fixed relatively easily. In this troubleshooting guide, we’ll walk you through the common causes of bathtub water drainage problems and provide step-by-step instructions on how to fix them. Whether you’re dealing with a clogged drain, a faulty drain mechanism, or a damaged bathtub surface, we’ve got you covered.
So if you’re wondering “Why Won’t My Bathtub Hold Water?” keep reading to find out.
Common Causes of Bathtub Water Drainage Problems
There are several possible causes for water drainage problems in bathtubs. Some of the most common ones include:
- A clogged bathtub drain due to hair, soap, or other debris accumulation.
- A broken or malfunctioning drain stopper mechanism that allows water to continuously drain out of the bathtub.
- An improperly sealed overflow drain that allows water to escape from the tub.
- A damaged or worn-out bathtub surface that no longer holds water.
These issues can be frustrating, but they are all fixable with the right tools and techniques. Read on for a detailed guide on how to troubleshoot and fix these bathtub water drainage problems.
Checking and Cleaning the Bathtub Drain
One of the most common causes for a bathtub not holding water is a clogged drain. Over time, dirt, hair, soap, and other debris can accumulate in the drain and obstruct the flow of water.
To check and clean the bathtub drain, follow these steps:
- Remove the drain cover by unscrewing it counter-clockwise.
- Using a flashlight, inspect the drain for any visible debris or obstructions. If you can see the blockage, try using a pair of pliers or tweezers to remove it.
- If the blockage is not visible, use a drain snake (also known as a plumbing auger) to break it up and remove it. Insert the snake into the drain and rotate it clockwise while pushing it further down. Once you feel resistance, rotate the snake counter-clockwise and pull it out, pulling out any debris that you have hooked onto it.
- Run hot water down the drain for a few minutes to flush out any remaining debris.
- Replace the drain cover and test the bathtub by filling it with water and checking for any leaks or drainage problems.
If the bathtub still won’t hold water after cleaning the drain, there may be another issue with the tub’s plumbing that requires professional assistance.
Inspecting the Overflow Drain
If the bathtub drain is working properly, but water is still not staying in the tub, the issue may be with the overflow drain. The overflow drain is located just below the bathtub’s rim and is designed to prevent water from overflowing and damaging the surrounding area. However, if the overflow drain is damaged or blocked, water may not stay in the tub.
Step 1: Remove the Overflow Cover Plate
Start by removing the overflow cover plate, which is usually located near the top of the tub. The plate should either snap into place or be secured with screws.
Step 2: Inspect the Overflow Drain for Blockages
Use a flashlight to inspect the overflow drain for any visible blockages, such as hair or soap scum. If you see any debris, use a wire hanger or plumbing snake to remove it.
Step 3: Check for Damages
Inspect the overflow drain for any damages or cracks that may be causing water to leak out. If you notice any damages, it may be necessary to replace the overflow drain.
By following these steps, you can identify and address any issues with the overflow drain that may be causing water to not stay in your bathtub.
Fixing the Drain Stopper Mechanism
If your bathtub water keeps draining, the drain stopper mechanism could be the culprit. Follow these steps to troubleshoot and fix the issue:
- Inspect the drain stopper to ensure it is in the closed position. If it’s not, simply push it down to close it.
- If the stopper is in the closed position but water still drains, remove the overflow plate from the tub wall to access the linkage. The linkage connects the trip lever to the stopper and may need to be adjusted or repaired.
- Adjust the linkage by loosening the screw that connects the linkage to the overflow plate and moving the linkage up or down as needed. Then, retighten the screw.
- If adjusting the linkage doesn’t work, remove the linkage and replace it with a new one.
If you’re not comfortable with these steps or still can’t fix the issue, it’s best to call a professional plumber for assistance.
Replacing the Drain Seal or Gasket
If you have tried cleaning the bathtub drain and inspecting the overflow drain, but the bathtub still won’t hold water, it may be time to replace the drain seal or gasket. The seal or gasket is a component that sits between the drain body and the bathtub, ensuring a tight seal that prevents water from leaking out.
Before you start the replacement process, make sure to turn off the water supply to the bathtub and remove any standing water. You will also need a drain wrench, a putty knife, and a replacement seal or gasket.
| Steps to replace the drain seal or gasket: |
|---|
| 1. Use the drain wrench to unscrew the drain body from the bathtub. |
| 2. Remove any old putty or debris from the bathtub and drain body using a putty knife. |
| 3. Apply a thin layer of plumber’s putty around the circumference of the new seal or gasket. |
| 4. Insert the new seal or gasket into the drain body, making sure it sits securely in place. |
| 5. Carefully screw the drain body back into the bathtub, making sure the seal or gasket is properly aligned and seated. |
Once you have completed the replacement process, turn on the water supply and test the bathtub to ensure that it now holds water properly.
Addressing Damaged Bathtub Surface
If you’ve tried the troubleshooting steps above and your bathtub still won’t hold water, it’s possible that the surface of your bathtub has been damaged. A damaged surface can cause leaks that prevent water from staying in the tub.
To check if your bathtub surface is damaged, inspect the bottom of the tub for any cracks or chips. If you do notice damage, it’s best to address the issue as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
If the damage is minor, you may be able to fix it yourself using a DIY bathtub repair kit. These kits are readily available at home improvement stores and come with instructions on how to use them. However, if the damage is extensive or you’re not comfortable repairing the bathtub yourself, it’s best to call in a professional.
Calling a Professional Plumber
If you have exhausted all the troubleshooting steps and your bathtub still won’t hold water or continues to have drainage problems, it may be time to call in a professional plumber. A licensed plumber will have the expertise and equipment to detect and fix more complex issues that may be affecting your bathtub.
Some signs that you should contact a plumber include:
- If you have tried all the DIY troubleshooting steps and the issue persists
- If you notice slow drainage in multiple drains in your home
- If you suspect a larger plumbing issue in your home
A plumber will be able to identify the root cause of the problem and offer an effective solution. Keep in mind that more complex issues may come with a higher cost, but it’s better to address them sooner rather than later to prevent further damage and expenses down the line.
FAQs about Bathtub Water Drainage Problems
Below are some frequently asked questions and answers related to bathtub water drainage problems:
Q: Why won’t my bathtub hold water?
A: There are several possible reasons why your bathtub may not be retaining water, such as a clogged drain, a faulty drain mechanism, or a damaged bathtub surface.
Q: What should I do if my bathtub won’t hold water after draining?
A: You may need to check and clean the bathtub drain to address any blockages or obstructions that may be preventing water from staying in the tub.
Q: How can I fix a bathtub water drain problem?
A: Depending on the cause of the problem, you may need to inspect the overflow drain, fix the drain stopper mechanism, or replace the drain seal or gasket.
Q: Why is water leaking from my bathtub?
A: Water leakage can be due to a poorly sealed drain or gasket, a damaged bathtub surface, or other potential issues with the bathtub’s internal mechanisms.
Q: What should I do if my bathtub water keeps draining?
A: You may need to troubleshoot issues with the drain stopper mechanism, or call a professional plumber if the problem persists.
Q: When should I call a professional plumber?
A: If you have tried troubleshooting the problem on your own and the issue persists, or if you suspect a more complex issue with the bathtub’s internal mechanisms, it may be best to call in a professional plumber to tackle the problem.
Q: Are there any DIY solutions for addressing bathtub water drainage problems?
A: Yes, there are several DIY solutions that you can try, such as checking and cleaning the bathtub drain, inspecting the overflow drain, and fixing the drain stopper mechanism. However, it’s important to exercise caution and seek professional help if you’re unsure about the proper steps to take.
