How to Fix a Leaking Trip Lever Bathtub Stopper

Anytime you have a leaking bathtub stopper, it is a nagging inconvenience. Most of the time a leaking tub stopper is easy to fix, although that depends on what type of bathtub stopper you have. A trip lever bathtub stopper works with a somewhat complex mechanism and can be trickier than other types of bathtub stoppers to fix. 

A trip lever bathtub drain stopper is controlled by the small lever that protrudes from the overflow plate.  The up-and-down lever is connected to a connecting rod behind the front of the bathtub wall, inside the overflow pipe.  A weighted plunger is attached to the bottom of the connecting rod and seals the drain when moved down into the bottom of the overflow tube.  The plunger releases the drain stopper to allow water flow when moved up. This type of bathtub stopper is also called a lift bucket tub stopper.

Lift Bucket Tub Stopper Problems

A lift bucket tub stopper controlled with the trip lever can begin to experience problems with leaking water usually for one of two reasons:

  • The connecting rod that links the trip lever to the plunger may require adjustments. If the plunger does not drop down far enough, the drain pipe opening will not completely seal. 
  • The plunger may not move up or down if the plunger itself has become stuck in the overflow tube. 

How to Repair a Lift Bucket Bathtub Stopper

You will need a screwdriver, an adjustable wrench and possibly a new connecting rod and plunger to repair this type of bathtub stopper.  This can be a bit messy so have a bucket and rag handy to help keep the mess out of the bathtub.  Follow these instructions to repair a lift bucket tub stopper:

1) Remove the bathtub overflow plate, this is usually fairly simple by just removing one or two screws.

2)  Pull out the connecting rod with the attached plunger through the overflow opening.

3)  Clean the plunger, removing any corrosion or debris that may be stopping it from landing smoothly into the overflow tube. If the plunger itself is damaged or corroded the entire assembly must be replaced.

4) Adjust the linkage on the connecting rod if it needs to be lengthened to allow the plunger to drop lower into the overflow tube. It may take a few tries to adjust the length perfectly so that the stopper falls to just the right height to seal the drain.

5) Reassemble the overflow opening and trip lever mechanism.

This is just one way to stop a leaky bathtub stopper, you have many options when you speak to the professionals at Eagle Mountain Products.  

Eagle Mountain Products offers a wide selection of quality Watco bathtub stoppers, tub drain replacement and repair parts. We help you to choose the easiest method to repair or replace a leaking bathtub stopper. Contact us for the best bathtub drain and stopper repair solution.

How to Prevent Outside Faucets from Freezing

You may not be worried about your outside faucets freezing during the sweltering hot summer months, although it’s much better to prevent a catastrophe than respond to one.  As they say, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.  

Most plumbing pipes are located inside the home, receiving the benefit of warmth and insulation. If you live in a climate that experiences a change in seasons and cold winter months, you must take steps to prevent outside faucets from freezing. When an outer faucet freezes, it can burst and cause tremendous damage to the inside of your home. Not only must you repair the frozen, broken pipe, you will also be faced with replacing siding, drywall, carpeting and any damaged home furnishings.

The best time to maintain your outside faucets and prevent catastrophic pipe damage and water damage from occurring inside your home is before the onset of freezing temperatures.  Follow these tips to prevent outside faucets from freezing and protect your home.

Pre-Winter Draining

It is important to drain your pipes prior to experiencing the first freeze of the winter. To properly drain your pipes, you must first locate the valve that controls your water flow to your outdoor faucets and turn it off.  This valve is usually located in the basement if you have one. Once the valve is off you can open your faucet and allow all of the water to drain completely. Make sure that you remove any pipe splitters, hoses or attachments to ensure that your pipe drains completely.

Install a Woodford Frost Free Hose Bib

A frost free hose bib runs several inches inside the house and can be installed to replace your current old faucet.  A frost free hose bib can include a pressure relief valve on the end of the long pipe, located inside the house.  Woodford offers a patented Model 19 that will prevent pipes from bursting, even if a hose is unintentionally left connected during freezing temperatures.  There are many various models of frost free hose bibs with specifications to meet various environments and situations. 

Follow these tips to protect your pipes and your entire home, and contact Eagle Mountain Products for assistance in choosing the right frost free hose bib for your outside faucets. 

We offer exceptional customer service available weekdays from 6:30 am to 4:00 pm MST at 1-800-308-0864, or via email to: sales@eaglemountainproducts.com.  We offer a wide selection of high quality Woodford and Watco pipe and plumbing products, known for high quality and dependability.

DIY Tub Stopper Solution for Old Drains

If you are renovating a bathroom in an older house, the bathtub drains may be out of date as tub drains are one of the last things anyone thinks of to update.  Some older homes may not even have a functional bathtub stopper making it impossible to take a bath. This is especially important if you have young children who need to take a bath instead of a shower.

The good news is that there are now modern products available which make it very simple to install a bathtub drain cover and tub stopper, no matter how old your tub is. The majority of bathtub drains include a crossbar where a stopper screws into it. This is typically a 3/8 inch or 5/16 inch threaded hole which the drain cover or stopper is easily screwed into. Some older tubs don’t even have this crossbar, leaving you wondering how to install a tub stopper without calling in professional help.

Newer products now exist such as the SimpliQuick® Tub Fix solution from Watco, a company recognized for providing reliable, durable and innovative tub drain repair products. Watco tub repair products are designed with easy installation in mind, and the SimpliQuick® Tub Fix couldn’t be easier.  You can find this tub stopper solution at FixMyDrain.com, along with simple video instruction showing you how to install a new mesh grid drain cover and push pull stopper on any type of bathtub in less than five minutes.

SimpliQuick® Tub Fix Solution for Old Tubs

With the SimpliQuick® Tub Fix solution, there is no need to remove your current tub drain which can be a real hassle and older homes. If you have a working, functional bathtub drain there is no need to remove it just to add a bathtub stopper. The SimpliQuick® Push Pull bathtub stopper sits right on top of nearly any tub drain with a universal fit and two installation methods. 

You can either screw in the tub stopper to an existing crossbar with an included 3/8 inch or 5/16 inch reversible post, or for drains without a crossbar you can simply place your new stopper over your existing drain with an included silicone adhesive that provides a permanent, watertight seal.  This bathtub stopper solution comes in many different finishes to match any décor and you can also choose a matching overflow plate to give your bathtub a completely brand-new look.

FixMyDrain.com offers innovative solutions to repair your bathtub drain problems yourself, saving you time and money.  SimpliQuick® Tub Fix installs in minutes and comes with a 5-year limited warranty. Contact the helpful folks at FixMyDrain.com for more information and assistance in choosing the right tub fix products for your tub. 

DIY Tricks to Fix a Clogged Tub Drain

A clogged tub drain is more than an inconvenient nuisance, a can be a grimy, smelly mess.  Clearing a clogged drain as soon as possible is important to regain the use of your bathtub and eliminate any foul odor.  Calling a plumber can be expensive, however, so here are some tips and tricks to try to fix your drain yourself.

Try the following home remedies to clear a clogged drain before calling a plumber:

Use a wire hanger – if you can find on old fashion wire hanger and untwist it with a hook at the end, it can work like a snake for the drain to remove clumps of hair or debris. A plastic snake that you can purchase at any hardware store is more pliable and will not scratch your drain pipe at all, but if you can reach the clog with a hanger it may free up the clog.

Drain cleaner or vinegar – try to use some drain cleaner if you have any, most brands are quite effective at loosening and releasing clogged drains. If you prefer to not use the toxic chemicals in drain cleaners, baking soda and vinegar may do the trick. Mix some baking soda in with a pot of boiling hot water and pour it in your drain, follow with a generous amount of vinegar. Just like the old volcano science experiments, vinegar and baking soda will create a fizzy reaction which is effective at clearing up some clogged drains. Wait for about 20 minutes and follow with another pot of hot, boiling water to see if it does the trick. 

Salt – this is very similar to using a vinegar solution although substituting salt instead of vinegar. It can also be very effective without a vinegary smell. 

The best solution? Prevent a clogged tub drain from occurring in the first place!

How to Prevent a Clogged Tub Drain

It’s always best to prevent a drain from becoming clogged in the first place.  You can prevent hair and foreign debris from entering your drain by installing a mesh grid drain cover. The SimpliQuick® Tub Fix solution by Watco is a push pull stopper with a mesh grid drain cover that is easy to install in under five minutes. The helpful folks at FixMyDrain.com can assist you in selecting the right stopper replacement and installation method.

FixMyDrain.com offers innovative bathtub repair and replacement products by Watco, a name trusted by professionals. We provide helpful videos to show you the easiest way to remove existing bathtub stoppers and install a shiny new stopper with a mesh grid drain cover. Contact us to learn how to fix your drain yourself and protect your drain in the future.

Upgrade the Look of Your Tub with a New Overflow Plate

An overflow plate on the bathtub is a safety feature which allows water to drain back through the drainpipe rather than spill over the side of the tub in the event it should overflow.  Replacing the overflow plate is easier than you think, and a great way to update the look of your bathtub. If your overflow plate and bathtub stopper are showing signs of wear and tear, replacing them both together in a beautiful matching finish is a quick and easy way to give your bathtub a brand-new look.

How to Remove an Existing Bathtub Overflow Plate

Some overflow plates are attached with two visible screws and are fairly similar to remove with a screwdriver.  You may have a plunger or pop-up style of tub stopper, these are controlled through a lever which protrudes through the overflow plate. The lever controls a linking mechanism which controls the tub stopper by raising or lowering the lever.  When removing this type of overflow plate, be aware that you will also be pulling out the attached stopper and linking arms.

In this case, have a small bucket and a rag handy to keep any grimy mess off of the bathtub.  Newer products such as the Watco Innovator Snap-On tub overflow plate and the SimpliQuick® Tub Fix stopper are now available which make installation a breeze.  These innovative bathtub repair products allow the do-it-yourself homeowner to literally install a new overflow plate and tub stopper in minutes. 

Installing a Snap-On Tub Overflow Plate

The Innovator Snap-On bathtub overflow plate is easy to install with a black retainer nut and adapter bar included. You should use the existing bolt or bolts to secure the retainer nut behind the H bar adapter and use the existing H bar adapter if you have a one hole, two hole or trip lever overflow plate. After securing the retainer nut, simply snap on the Innovator overflow plate with the opening at the bottom.

Replace your existing bathtub stopper with the SimpliQuick® Tub Fix trim kit for a matching overflow plate and push pull stopper with a mesh grid drain cover. This is the quickest and easiest way to replace corroded or broken bathtub fixtures and give your tub a shiny, brand-new look. These innovative tub fix products from Watco are beautiful and functional, designed for long lasting durability and easy installation.

FixMyDrain.com offers quality products, exceptional customer support and instructional videos to make your tub fix project a success. Your complete satisfaction is paramount to our success. Contact us for assistance in choosing the right overflow plate and bathtub stopper products. 

Here’s the Easy Way to Remove Your Bathtub Stopper

If your bathtub stopper is not working properly it may need to be removed for a good cleaning, unless it is too corroded or broken and needs to be replaced.  Either way, you’ve got to remove it to see what’s going on and why your tub stopper isn’t holding water. Removing your bathtub stopper is not as difficult as you may think, especially with help from the tub fix experts at FixMyDrain.com.

FixMyDrain.com has one goal, to help you fix your bathtub or lavatory sink drain and stopper problems once and for all. Here you will find innovative new tub repair products from Watco, a name recognized for quality tub and drain products built to last.  We also provide free and informative videos to show you the best way to remove bathtub stoppers and overflow plates, as well as how to install a new bathtub stopper in only minutes.

Removing Common Bathtub Stoppers

You can remove the most common types of bathtub stoppers with just a flathead screwdriver and a pair of pliers.  A bathtub stopper that you pull up and turn should be left in the closed position while you firmly hold the base and loosen the top by turning counter clockwise.  If the stopper will not easily come out after loosening, there may be a set screw in place that needs to be loosened.  

Our step by step videos will show you first-hand how to remove the most common types of bathtub stoppers. Once your stopper is removed, it is easier than ever before to install a shiny new tub stopper with innovative products like the SimpliQuick® Tub Fix. This revolutionary bathtub stopper is the easiest way to replace broken or corroded stoppers without removing your tub drain.

The SimpliQuick® Tub Fix provides a universal fit to install over nearly any size of tub drain and includes a mesh grid cover to prevent hair and foreign debris from entering your drain.  This innovative product even installs right over drains that have broken crossbars. Just choose the silicone adhesive method and enjoy your shiny, new bathtub drain in minutes. 

FixMyDrain.com provides quality Watco tub replacement and repair products, exceptional customer service and easy to follow video instruction. Your satisfaction is paramount to our success, just give us a call with any questions.  Contact us to learn the easiest way to remove bathtub stoppers and how to fix your bathtub drain.

Simple Things to Fix before Selling Your Home

If you are considering selling your home, it may be worth your while to make some simple repairs.  Knowing what to focus on with limited time and a limited budget can be confusing. Here is a list of some of the most important and simple things that you can do to improve the chances of your home selling for your asking price.  

At the very least, you’ll want to repair any cracks and patch holes in the walls and ceilings, repair any broken appliances and HVAC systems, make repairs to any broken windows or roof damage and make repairs to any kitchen and bathroom sinks and tub  drains.  Whether you sell your home with a real estate agent or plan to sell by owner, most real estate professionals will agree that the following list of repairs are worth making before selling your home.

1) Exterior

Your home exterior is the first thing that buyers see, so a welcoming curb appeal is important for a good first impression. Make sure that your lawn is neat, free from clutter and weeds.  Planting some flowers is a quick and easy way to provide an inviting, homier touch. 

2)  Paint

Paint is one of the easiest and least expensive ways to update the look of your house. Most people prefer light and neutral colors and most real estate professionals will tell you to remove wallpaper whenever possible.

3)  Kitchen

You can make simple renovations to a kitchen that don’t break the budget, but you should speak with a real estate agent before you do a complete  kitchen renovation. Upgrading kitchens can be costly, a professional can help guide you on the upgrades that make good financial sense.  

You wouldn’t want to put more money into a renovation than what is going to get you back in the sale, although some things just may be a deal breaker for potential buyers. Updating issues that could prevent a sale from going through might be worth it.

4)  Bathroom

The kitchen and bathroom are very important rooms in your home and especially when selling your home as no one wants to come in and have to repair plumbing or leaky drains and faucets. Problems with a continually running toilet, a leaky faucet or a broken bathtub drain should definitely be repaired prior to selling your home.  Making repairs in bathrooms and kitchens can be costly, thus making it critical to have functional, working drains and stoppers in all your tubs and sinks.

Quick and Easy Bathtub Drain Repair

For the quickest and easiest bathtub drain repair methods and products, contact the experts at FixMyDrain.com.  FixMyDrain.com is the official online retailer for Watco premier bathtub stoppers and drain repair solutions. The SimpliQuick® Tub Fix solution is a push pull stopper that installs over any drain with a universal fit.

With SimpliQuick® Tub Fix, there is no need to remove your existing drain or call a plumbing professional. Simply install a brand-new, shiny, push pull stopper with a mesh grid drain cover in less than five minutes. Contact FixMyDrain.com to help you solve any bathtub repair project so you can focus on more important things.

Easy Solutions to Fix Bathtub Drain Problems

Watco is a company known for providing reliable and durable bathtub and sink drain repair products with easy to install solutions. Professional plumbers and the experienced do-it-yourselfer trust the American ingenuity and quality products offered by Watco. It has never been easier to repair a bathtub drain than with the innovative new SimpliQuick® Tub Fix solution.

This easy to install bathtub replacement stopper and drain repair solution transforms the look of your tub with a beautiful new stopper in the finish of your choice. Many people turn to this simple and quick solution which often looks better than original builder’s materials and is easier to install. Stop procrastinating on your bathtub repair project and check out the quickest and easiest tub drain repair product with the most economical solution.  

Install a Shiny New Tub Drain in under Five Minutes

FixMyDrain.com is the premier online retailer for the innovative SimpliQuick® Tub Fix solution. We make it easy to transform the look of your tub with a beautiful, shiny new tub stopper with a mesh grid strainer included. Enjoy the convenience of an easy push pull stopper with high clearance for simple cleaning and high flow draining.

We offer informative videos to show you exactly how to remove your current bathtub stopper with the easiest method and tools available. There is no need to worry about the depth of your current drain or thread count as there is no need to remove your existing drain with this easy to install solution. The SimpliQuick® Tub Fix replacement stopper sits right on top of your existing drain for a quick, easy and economical tub repair solution.  

This innovative product comes with everything you need to install in only minutes with no prep work. Choose from either a reversible 3/8-in or 5/16-in post or if you have broken crossbars, select the silicone adhesive method for a watertight, permanent seal. Complete the look of your tub with the Innovator Snap On overflow plate in a matching finish.

FixMyDrain.com wants to help you fix your bathtub drain and stopper problems with the most efficient and economical method. We offer high-quality Watco tub repair products and easy to follow instructional videos with full customer support. Contact us to learn more about this simple and quick solution for your bathtub drain and stopper repair.

Fix Your Bathtub Drain with No Prep Work

Fixing a broken bathtub drain can be such a hassle, it’s no wonder this is one of the home repair projects that most people dread and procrastinate on.  Just the thought of figuring out how to remove your existing tub drain and how to install a new drain with the same diameter and thread count seems overwhelming.

Well, forget about removing that existing drain and don’t worry about calling a plumber with the revolutionary bathtub drain repair product by Watco. The innovative SimpliQuick® Tub Fix solution from Watco is the easiest way to fix your bathtub drain and requires no prep work. Stop procrastinating on your bathtub drain repair project and learn more about this innovative and easy to install PushPull® bathtub stopper which installs in minutes.

Install New Bathtub Stopper in Minutes

The SimpliQuick® Tub Fix bathtub stopper is the easiest way to repair a broken bathtub drain and upgrade the look of your tub. Since this innovative product sits right on top of your existing drain there is no need to remove your current broken or corroded bathtub drain. You can install your beautiful new bathtub stopper right on top of your bathtub drain which means you don’t even need to worry about having broken crossbars.

FixMyDrain.com is pleased to offer this amazingly simple new product from Watco, a company recognized for innovative and quality products that will last. We show you quick and easy to understand videos with step-by-step instruction on how to remove the most common bathtub stoppers and how to install the SimpliQuick® Tub Fix solution in minutes with virtually no prep work required.

Your new PushPull® stopper comes with your choice of two easy installation methods with either a reversible post in 3/8-in or 5/16-in to fit any tub drain or a silicone adhesive method for drains with broken crossbars. Choose your installation method and choose your finish to upgrade the look of your tub in minutes.

FixMyDrain.com is committed to helping you solve your bathtub drain and stopper problems with long-lasting, reliable tub fix solutions. We provide quick and easy video instruction and exceptional customer service for your total satisfaction. Contact us with any questions and to learn how to transform the look of your tub with no hassle and no prep work required.

Three Easy Steps for a New Bathtub Drain

Fixing a broken bathtub drain is one of the most dreaded home repair projects there is. It’s easy to put off bathtub repair projects as nobody looks forward to the mess or the hassle.  Well, stop putting off your bathtub drain repair project with the revolutionary SimpliQuick® Tub Fix solution from Watco.

Professional plumbers and the experienced do-it-yourselfers know and trust Watco for providing durable, reliable tub and sink drain repair products which are easy to install. FixMyDrain.com is the proud, online retailer for innovative drain repair products by Watco. We offer quality bathtub and sink drain repair products, easy to follow how-to videos, and exemplary customer support.

With this innovative and durable bathtub stopper, there is no need to call a plumber as it’s never been easier to repair a bathtub drain. Simply follow these three easy steps to enjoy a beautiful, shiny new bathtub drain stopper:

1)  Remove your current tub stopper.  FixMyDrain.com shows you quick and easy to follow videos on how to remove your current bathtub stopper.  The most common tub stoppers can be removed with minimal effort and only simple tools like a screwdriver and possibly a pair of pliers with the right instructions.

2) Select your installation method.  The SimpliQuick® Tub Fix is available to install with your choice of two installation methods. This simple tub fix solution comes with a reversible post to fit almost any crossbar with either a 3/8-in or 5/16-in screw in assembly.  If you have broken crossbars, not to worry, the silicone adhesive installation method is quick and easy and provides a permanent, watertight seal.

3) Install your new SimpliQuick® Tub Fix.  Once you remove your current stopper and choose your installation method, simply install your shiny, new tub drain stopper right over your existing drain.

It’s never been easier to upgrade the look of your bathtub and transform the look of your whole bathroom. Choose this revolutionary tub stopper in the finish of your choice as it is available in many options such as oil rubbed bronze, brushed nickel or chrome plated. Add the Innovator Snap On overflow plate in a matching finish for a new and polished look to your bathtub.

FixMyDrain.com is here to make your bathtub repair project simple and quick. We are proud to offer innovative and reliable products from Watco. Contact us to learn the easiest way to install a new bathtub stopper and with any questions on your tub drain repair project.