What Size Drain For Bathtub?

AvatarByLiana Farrell Bathtub Queries

What Size Drain for Bathtub?

The bathtub drain is a critical part of your bathroom, but it’s often overlooked. When it’s working properly, you don’t even think about it. But when it’s not, it can be a real pain.

A clogged bathtub drain can be a major inconvenience, and it can also be a health hazard. If your drain is clogged, it can trap water and create a breeding ground for bacteria. This can lead to all sorts of problems, including odors, mold, and even diseases.

So how do you choose the right size drain for your bathtub? It’s actually a pretty simple decision, and it’s one that you can make in just a few minutes.

In this article, we’ll take a look at the different factors you need to consider when choosing a bathtub drain. We’ll also provide some tips on how to install and maintain your drain properly.

So if you’re ready to learn more about bathtub drains, keep reading!

Drain Size Bathtub Size Maximum Flow Rate
1.5 inches Single-person bathtub 2 gallons per minute
2 inches Double-person bathtub 3 gallons per minute
2.5 inches Large bathtub 4 gallons per minute

How to Measure Your Bathtub Drain

Measuring your bathtub drain is a simple task that can be completed in just a few minutes. By knowing the size of your drain, you can ensure that you purchase the correct replacement part if needed.

To measure your bathtub drain, you will need a ruler or tape measure.

1. Locate the drain plug. The drain plug is the round or oval-shaped cover that sits in the center of the bathtub drain.
2. Remove the drain plug. To remove the drain plug, simply turn it counterclockwise until it comes loose.
3. Measure the drain opening. Once the drain plug is removed, you can measure the diameter of the drain opening. The diameter is the measurement across the widest part of the opening.

You can measure the drain opening in inches or centimeters. If you are unsure of which measurement to use, consult with a professional plumber.

Once you have measured the drain opening, you can use this information to purchase a replacement drain plug or other bathtub drain parts.

Common Bathtub Drain Sizes

The most common bathtub drain sizes are 1-1/2 inches and 2 inches. However, there are also a variety of other sizes available, including 1 inch, 1-1/4 inches, 2-1/4 inches, and 3 inches.

The size of your bathtub drain will depend on the size of your bathtub. If you have a small bathtub, you will likely have a smaller drain size. If you have a large bathtub, you will likely have a larger drain size.

You can find the size of your bathtub drain by measuring the diameter of the drain opening. The diameter is the measurement across the widest part of the opening.

If you are unsure of the size of your bathtub drain, you can consult with a professional plumber.

Here is a table of the most common bathtub drain sizes:

| Drain Size | Diameter (Inches) |
|—|—|
| 1-1/2 inches | 1.5 inches |
| 2 inches | 2 inches |
| 1 inch | 1 inch |
| 1-1/4 inches | 1.25 inches |
| 2-1/4 inches | 2.25 inches |
| 3 inches | 3 inches |

Measuring your bathtub drain and knowing the common bathtub drain sizes can help you ensure that you purchase the correct replacement part if needed. If you are unsure of the size of your bathtub drain, you can consult with a professional plumber.

Choosing the Right Drain Size for Your Bathtub

The size of the drain you choose for your bathtub is important for both function and aesthetics. A drain that is too small will not drain water quickly enough, which can lead to flooding and other problems. A drain that is too large will look out of place and may not be able to handle the amount of water that flows into it.

To choose the right drain size for your bathtub, you need to consider the following factors:

  • The size of your bathtub
  • The amount of water that will flow into the drain
  • The type of drain you want

The size of your bathtub is the most important factor to consider when choosing a drain size. The drain should be large enough to accommodate the amount of water that will flow into it when the bathtub is full. A good rule of thumb is to choose a drain that is at least 1 inch larger in diameter than the overflow drain on your bathtub.

The amount of water that will flow into the drain is also important to consider. If you have a large family or if you frequently take long baths, you will need a drain that can handle a lot of water. A good rule of thumb is to choose a drain that can handle at least 5 gallons of water per minute.

The type of drain you want is another factor to consider. There are two main types of bathtub drains: overflow drains and pop-up drains. Overflow drains are located at the back of the bathtub and are designed to prevent water from overflowing the tub. Pop-up drains are located in the center of the bathtub and can be opened and closed to control the flow of water.

Once you have considered all of these factors, you can choose the right drain size for your bathtub. Here is a table that summarizes the recommended drain sizes for different bathtub sizes:

| Bathtub Size | Drain Size |
|—|—|
| 30 inches | 1.5 inches |
| 32 inches | 1.75 inches |
| 34 inches | 2 inches |
| 36 inches | 2.25 inches |
| 38 inches | 2.5 inches |
| 40 inches | 2.75 inches |

Installing a New Bathtub Drain

Installing a new bathtub drain is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours. However, it is important to follow the steps carefully to ensure that the job is done correctly.

Here are the steps on how to install a new bathtub drain:

1. Gather your tools and materials. You will need the following tools and materials:

  • A screwdriver
  • A wrench
  • A new bathtub drain
  • A plumber’s putty
  • A bucket
  • A towel

2. Turn off the water supply to the bathtub. Locate the water supply valve to the bathtub and turn it off. You may need to use a wrench to turn the valve.

3. Drain the water from the bathtub. Place a bucket under the bathtub drain and open the drain. Allow the water to drain out of the bathtub.

4. Remove the old drain. Use a screwdriver to loosen the screws that hold the old drain in place. Once the screws are loosened, you can remove the old drain.

5. Install the new drain. Apply a bead of plumber’s putty around the base of the new drain. Then, insert the new drain into the hole in the bathtub. Use a wrench to tighten the screws that hold the drain in place.

6. Turn on the water supply to the bathtub. Turn the water supply valve back on. The water should flow freely through the new drain.

7. Test the drain. Fill the bathtub with water and check to make sure that the drain is working properly. The water should drain quickly and without any leaks.

If you are not comfortable doing this yourself, you can hire a plumber to install the new drain for you.

Choosing the right drain size for your bathtub and installing a new drain are both important tasks that can help to ensure that your bathtub functions properly. By following the steps in this guide, you can easily choose the right drain size for your bathtub and install a new drain yourself.

What size drain do I need for my bathtub?

The size of the drain you need for your bathtub depends on the size of the bathtub. A standard bathtub is 60 inches long and 30 inches wide, and it will need a 2-inch drain. If your bathtub is larger than 60 inches long or 30 inches wide, you will need a larger drain.

How do I measure the drain size of my bathtub?

To measure the drain size of your bathtub, you will need to measure the diameter of the drain opening. You can do this by using a ruler or measuring tape.

What is the difference between a bathtub drain and a shower drain?

Bathtub drains and shower drains are not the same size. A bathtub drain is typically 2 inches in diameter, while a shower drain is typically 1.5 inches in diameter.

Can I use a shower drain in a bathtub?

Yes, you can use a shower drain in a bathtub. However, you may need to purchase an adapter to make the drain fit properly.

What is the best type of bathtub drain?

There are two main types of bathtub drains: pop-up drains and overflow drains. Pop-up drains are the most common type of bathtub drain. They have a stopper that can be lifted up to drain the water. Overflow drains are located at the back of the bathtub and they allow water to drain out of the bathtub even when the stopper is closed.

How do I clean a bathtub drain?

To clean a bathtub drain, you will need to:

1. Remove the stopper from the drain.
2. Pour 1 cup of baking soda into the drain.
3. Pour 1 cup of vinegar into the drain.
4. Let the baking soda and vinegar sit for 15 minutes.
5. Flush the drain with hot water.

What should I do if my bathtub drain is clogged?

If your bathtub drain is clogged, you can try to unclog it yourself using a plunger or a drain snake. If you are unable to unclog the drain yourself, you may need to call a plumber.

the size of the drain for your bathtub is an important consideration that can affect the overall performance of your plumbing system. By choosing the right size drain, you can help to prevent clogs and ensure that your bathtub drains quickly and efficiently.

Here are a few key takeaways to remember when choosing a bathtub drain:

  • The diameter of the drain should be at least 1 1/2 inches.
  • The drain should be located at the lowest point in the bathtub.
  • The drain should have a grate or strainer to prevent hair and other debris from entering the pipes.

By following these tips, you can choose the best drain for your bathtub and ensure that your plumbing system is working properly.

Author Profile

Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell is the owner of toiletty.com. She is a mom of two and is very passionate about home improvement.

Liana has ten years of home improvement experience, and in her own words, she said: “I love improving the home, and I’m very passionate about keeping the home in the best possible condition. I love it!”

Liana Farrell balances beauty and functionality when she goes about her home improvement jobs.