Your bathtub has several working parts. One of the most important is the overflow cover plate. As the name implies, the cover is designed to prevent water in the bathtub from overflowing. When water overflows from the tub, it can cause significant damage to the floor, other appliances, and the bathtub. Even if you know what the name means, you might be wondering, “how does a bathtub overflow drain work?”. You might also wonder how to identify problems with the cover plate and stop them before they become a significant problem. In either case, read on! The experts at Service Plus Plumbing have the answer.

 

When to Replace the Overflow Cover Plate

Fortunately, as with many plumbing concerns, there are some indications and warning signs you can look for to know when it’s time to replace the overflow cover plate. The cover plate can start to become less effective if the pipes are clogged in your bathtub. This can make water drain more slowly. If a clog is severe, the cover plate won’t be able to do its job. Another common issue that arises with an overflow cover plate is a problem with the gasket behind the faceplate or drain cover. Rubber located behind the tub can eventually break down. This causes water levels to rise to or exceed the level of the overflow cover plate. If this happens, water can more easily find a breach. Sometimes, it can be challenging to find the source of the leak as the water generally moves downwards across the drain waste tube. The water can even travel beneath the tub and appear as a leak much farther from the actual source.

 

Replacing the Overflow Cover Plate

Once you’ve determined that there is a problem with the overflow cover plate, you will need to replace the part before substantial water damage occurs. You may be able to replace the overflow cover plate on your own, but chances are good you’ll need to contact a professional for repairs, too.

 

To begin, you’ll need to make sure you have the right tools and equipment on hand. This includes a tub drain and spud wrench, screwdrivers, and pliers. You’ll need to remove mounting screws from the old cover plate. While you should discard the old plate, be sure to save the screws to reuse with the new one. Next, you’ll need to attach the bathtub overflow cap to the connection and attach it using the screws. Replacing the gasket is the next step. Finally, you’ll need to ensure the drainpipe is the right size and thread the plug into the drain assembly.

 

The overflow cover plate is one of the most critical components in your bathtub. If your cover plate starts to show signs of a problem, don’t hesitate to contact Service Plus Plumbing for fast and accurate assistance.