How to Know if Your Tub Drain Is Threaded or a Drop-in?

Different types of drain plugs are available for bathtubs. Knowing what type you have, helps you clean, repair and adjust the plug. If the drain is clogged or the plug doesn't rise sufficiently, you'll need to take it apart, clean and examine it. To help a plug pop up higher and allow water to flow through faster, adjust the lift or striker rod so it sits higher in the drain. Examine the drain while you have the plug out to see whether it is clogged and needs cleaning.

Things You'll Need

• Bristle brush

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Lift the lever to raise the drain plug so you can grasp it.

   • 2

     Pull the drain plug straight up and out of the drain. You may have to unscrew it counterclockwise to release it.

   • 3

     Remove any hair or debris clinging to the plug so you can examine it. Use a stiff bristle brush to clean it off.

   • 4

     Examine the plug. The plug either has a rod that is secured with lock nuts or with a lock nut that screws onto the rod to adjust it. A plug that screws in is a threaded variation, and the simple lock nut is a drop-in.