How to Clean a Bathtub Drain Lift and Turn Type
Ever tried to take a relaxing bath only to find the water pooling around your ankles, taking forever to drain? Frustrating, right? You may be wondering, How to clean a bathtub drain lift and turn type? If you live in Etobicoke and have this type of drain, you’re not alone in dealing with these clogs. While the typical advice you find online offers some help, there’s often more to the story. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of cleaning a lift-and-turn drain, including tips and tricks most websites don’t cover; plus, we’ll let you know how JZ Plumbing Services can assist you with any drain issues.
What Is a Lift and Turn Bathtub Drain?
Before we dive into cleaning, let’s quickly break down what a lift and turn drain is. This type of drain is quite common in homes in Etobicoke and across Canada. It consists of a stopper that you lift and twist to open or close the drain. While convenient, this design is prone to trapping hair, soap scum, and other debris underneath the stopper, leading to slow drainage or even complete blockages.
Common Issues With Lift and Turn Drains
Most people only clean the visible part of the drain, but over time, debris builds up below the surface. Lift and turn drains are notorious for catching hair and soap deep inside the pipe. According to a study by the Plumbing Manufacturers International, 71% of household clogs occur due to a combination of hair and soap buildup and improper maintenance; your bathtub drain can become slow and even stop functioning altogether.
How to Clean a Bathtub Drain Lift And Turn Type
Now that we know why lift-and-turn drains are prone to clogging, let's get into the nitty-gritty of cleaning them. While many websites suggest using chemical drain cleaners, we recommend avoiding them. Over time, chemicals can corrode your pipes, leading to costly repairs. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean it effectively:
Step 1: Remove the Stopper
- Lift the stopper to the open position.
- Grab the knob on top of the stopper and twist counterclockwise. If it feels stuck, use a rag for extra grip.
- Once loosened, pull the stopper straight up and out of the drain. Be careful not to drop any screws into the drain!
Step 2: Clean the Stopper
Once the stopper is out, you’ll likely notice a lot of hair, soap scum, and other debris wrapped around it. Use an old toothbrush or a small brush to clean the stopper thoroughly. Rinse it under warm water and set it aside.
Step 3: Remove the Debris From the Drain
Next, take a look inside the drain. You’ll likely see more hair and gunk that’s built up over time. A drain snake or a straightened wire hanger works wonders here. Insert the snake or hanger into the drain and twist as you push it deeper. Once you feel resistance, you’ve probably hit a clog. Slowly pull out the tool to bring the debris with it. According to a report by the Canadian Institute of Plumbing and Heating, over 60% of bathtub drain clogs are located within the first few inches of the drain pipe, so this method is often effective.
Step 4: Flush the Drain
Now that you’ve removed the gunk, it's time to flush the drain. Boil a kettle of water and pour it slowly down the drain to help dissolve any remaining residue. You can also follow this with a solution of baking soda and vinegar for a natural clean. Pour half a cup of baking soda into the drain, followed by one cup of vinegar. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then flush again with hot water.
Step 5: Reassemble the Stopper
Once everything is clean, reinstall the stopper by reversing the removal process. Place the stopper back into the drain and twist it clockwise until it's snug but not too tight. Test the stopper by turning it to make sure it opens and closes properly.
Advanced Tips for Lift and Turn Drains Most Websites Don’t Cover
- Use a Drain Cover: Installing a simple mesh drain cover can prevent large debris from entering your drain in the first place. This can reduce the need for frequent cleanings and prolong the life of your pipes.
- Inspect for Damage: After removing the stopper, take a moment to inspect the drain for signs of wear or corrosion. If you notice cracks or rust, it may be time to call in a professional plumber.
- Regular Maintenance: Performing a monthly clean—even if the drain seems fine—can prevent larger issues down the road.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Stick to mechanical cleaning methods like drain snakes or natural solutions like baking soda and vinegar to avoid pipe damage.
- Call a Pro for Deeper Clogs: If you’ve tried everything and your drain is still slow, it could mean that the clog is deeper in your plumbing system. For Etobicoke residents, this is where JZ Plumbing Services comes in handy.
JZ Plumbing Services: Your Drain Cleaning Experts in Etobicoke
At JZ Plumbing Services, we specialize in helping Etobicoke residents maintain their plumbing systems. If your bathtub drain still isn’t working after cleaning, it may be a sign of a larger issue within your main drain. Our Main Drain Service Etobicoke ensures that your plumbing system is in tip-top shape, preventing future clogs and potential damage to your home.
Whether it’s a minor clog or a significant blockage, our team of professionals is equipped with the latest tools and technology to get your drain flowing freely again. With years of experience serving Etobicoke, we understand the unique plumbing challenges that homes in this area face. Read more about “How to Clean Your Drain With Bleach?” on our blog page today!
Conclusion
Cleaning a lift-and-turn bathtub drain isn’t rocket science, but it does require a little bit of elbow grease and know-how. By following the steps outlined above, you can keep your drain in working order and avoid costly plumbing repairs. Remember, regular maintenance is key to avoiding future headaches.
If you ever find yourself in a situation where your drain simply won’t budge or if you're dealing with a more significant plumbing issue, don’t hesitate to contact JZ Plumbing Services. We specialize in Main Drain Service Etobicoke and can handle everything from small clogs to major plumbing problems.
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