Symptoms
- Stopper won't pop up or push down
- Water drains even with stopper closed
- Stopper is loose or wiggly
- Lever on the overflow plate feels stiff
Likely causes
- CommonHair and debris jammed around the stopper mechanismBuildup around a pop-up or toe-touch stopper can physically block it from moving.
- CommonTrip lever linkage out of adjustmentTub stoppers connected to an overflow lever rely on an internal rocker arm that can slip out of position.
- PossibleCorroded or worn stopper partsOlder metal stoppers can corrode and bind inside the drain body.
- Less commonWrong stopper type installed for the drainA mismatched replacement stopper may not seat or trip correctly.
What to do
- Identify the stopper type: push-pull, toe-touch, lift-and-turn, or trip-lever (with a lever on the overflow plate).
- For push-pull or lift-and-turn types, try twisting counterclockwise to unscrew the stopper and lift it out.
- Clean out hair and grime from the stopper and the drain opening with gloved fingers or needle-nose pliers.
- For trip-lever types, remove the two screws on the overflow plate and pull out the linkage assembly.
- Clean the rocker arm and adjust the linkage nut up or down to change how far the stopper opens or closes.
- Reinsert the linkage and test by working the lever a few times before closing the plate.
- Run water to confirm the stopper both holds water when closed and drains fully when open.
Tools and parts
- Screwdriver
- Needle-nose pliers
- Gloves
Universal tub trip lever or stopper assemblySearch: “tub drain trip lever assembly”
When to call a pro
Call a plumber if the linkage is corroded solid or the drain body itself needs replacement.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.