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Clog Removal: Unclogging a Bathtub using the Trip Lever Clog Removal: Unclogging a Bathtub using the Trip Lever From "Ed the Plumber" episode DETP-208

A trip lever is used when your bathtub drain is clogged. It's fairly easy to use.

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C

1. Remove the two screws that fasten the trip lever to the tub (figure A); the trip lever is the lever that makes your tub drain go up and down.

2. Once the screws are removed, yank up on it and the whole mechanism will come out.

3. Look for hair or debris that can be removed.

4. Now that the trip lever has been removed, a hand snake can be used.

5. Before plunging, block the hole in the overflow plate where your trip lever is with a wet rag (figure B).

6. Next, put a few inches of water into the tub, then hold the rag in place and start plunging (figure C).

7. After a minute or so, remove the plunger and see if the drain flows freely. If not, repeat the process.