How to Remove a Push Down Shower Drain: Easy Step-by-Step Guide

Removing a push down shower drain might seem like a task reserved for a seasoned plumber, but it is often a straightforward process that any homeowner can tackle with the right guidance. This mechanism, designed for convenience, uses a simple linkage system that lifts a strainer stopper when you pull the lever. Over time, mineral deposits from hard water, hair, and soap scum can jam this system, making the drain stubborn to lift or causing it to fall back into place too quickly. Understanding how this linkage works is the first step toward a successful removal and cleaning, saving you the cost of a service call and ensuring your shower drain functions at peak efficiency.

Understanding the Push Down Drain Mechanism

Before you begin the physical removal, it is essential to visualize the internal components working beneath the shower floor. The system typically consists of a vertical rod, often chrome-plated, that connects the handle on the drain face to a pivot rod underneath the drain flange. When you press down on the strainer, the linkage rod pushes down on a pivot, allowing the waste to flow through. When you pull up on the handle, the rod lifts the strainer, blocking the drain. Corrosion at the pivot point or a broken clip are the usual culprits when the handle becomes difficult to operate, leading many to believe the entire drain assembly needs replacing immediately.

Tools Required for the Job

You do not need a full surgical toolkit for this project, but having the right instruments on hand will save you significant frustration. The primary requirement is a wrench set, specifically an adjustable wrench or a basin wrench, to access the nuts located in the confined space under the shower. Additionally, you will need a screwdriver set, both flathead and Phillips, to manage the setscrew that locks the linkage rod in place. For cleanup, a stiff brush and a vinegar solution are essential for dissolving the mineral buildup that caused the initial problem in the first place.

Step-by-Step Removal Process

With the tools gathered, you are now ready to remove the drain cover and expose the linkage. Start by unscrewing the small set screw located on the side of the drain body; this screw holds the pivot rod in place. You will usually find this screw positioned on the underside or the side of the drain pipe. Once the screw is loose, you can gently pull the drain cover upward to reveal the intricate network of rods and springs. It is common to encounter resistance here, so avoid using excessive force to prevent stripping the chrome finish or breaking the plastic components.

• Locate the setscrew securing the linkage rod to the drain handle.
• Loosen the setscrew completely to free the rod from the handle.
• Remove the drain cover or strainer to access the top of the linkage.
• Disconnect the pivot rod from the tailpiece of the drain pipe.
• Lift the entire drain assembly out of the shower floor carefully.

Dealing with Stubborn Hardware

If the drain handle feels welded in place due to years of mineral exposure, you might need to employ a penetrating oil like WD-40. Spray the oil generously around the base of the handle and the pivot point, allowing it to soak for five to ten minutes. Gently wiggle the handle side to side to work the lubricant into the crevices. If the chrome plating is flaking or the metal is corroded to the point of breaking, you may need to use channel-lock pliers to grip the nut directly, but it is crucial to pad the jaws with cloth to avoid marring the surface.

While the drain is disassembled, this is the perfect opportunity to inspect the condition of the rubber gasket or seal located at the bottom of the drain tailpiece. If this seal is cracked or brittle, water will leak into the sub-floor structure, leading to mold growth and rot. Replacing this small component during the removal process ensures you do not have to repeat this disassembly a month later. Cleaning the threads of the drain pipe with a wire brush will also guarantee a tight seal when you reassemble the unit.

Reinstallation and Testing

Reinstalling the drain is essentially the reverse of removal, but attention to detail is critical to ensure smooth operation. Before threading the tailpiece back into the drain body, apply a new bead of plumber’s putty or a rubber gasket to the underside of the drain flange. This step creates a watertight seal that prevents moisture from seeping into the mortar beneath the shower. As you tighten the nut, compress the gasket evenly, but do not overtighten, as this can crack the porcelain or composite shower base.

Once the drain is secured, reconnect the linkage rod to the handle and tighten the setscrew. Test the mechanism by lifting and depressing the strainer several times to ensure the action is smooth and requires minimal effort. Finally, run water through the drain to check for leaks and confirm that the strainer seals flat against the surface when lifted. By following these steps, you have not only removed the push down shower drain but also extended its lifespan, ensuring reliable performance for years to come.