Bathtub overflow drain: choosing and installing correctly. How to choose a bathroom drain and overflow: useful tips Automatic bath drain

No bathtub can do without a drain-overflow system. This device, unnoticeable in appearance, performs a number of important functions. And not only the convenience of using the bathroom, but also the safety of its operation depends on the correct choice and quality of installation.

This simple design, in principle, will prevent the bathroom from overflowing if the owners are not careful. Excess water will be flushed down the drain, and will not fall on the floor, will not spoil the floor covering, and even more so, will not spill on the heads of neighbors living on the floor below. And modern models of such systems also allow you to take a bath with maximum comfort, while at the same time becoming some kind of decorative decoration. So, if you plan to install a new bathtub or replace an old siphon that has expired, it makes sense to familiarize yourself with the information offered: bathtub overflow drain - device, types, installation rules.

Functions of the drain-overflow system, offered varieties

Among specialists, the drain-overflow system is often called more simply - bathtub plumbing. This doesn't change the essence. And to begin with, what tasks are assigned to this system?

Firstly, the sealed frame of the drain and overflow holes in the bathtub, that is, the water from them, thanks to the existing seals, does not spill onto the floor, but is completely directed first into the system pipes, and from them into the sewer pipe.
Secondly, due to the presence of a siphon, a water seal is created that prevents the penetration of unpleasant “odors” of the sewer into the room.
Thirdly, it allows you to close the drain hole of the bathtub in one way or another while filling it.
Fourthly, it will not allow overflow if the process of filling the bathtub for some reason has fallen out of the user’s field of attention. Almost all bathtubs are equipped with two holes - one of them is traditionally located in the bottom part, and the second on the wall at the maximum filling level. These outlets are connected to each other by a pipe or flexible hose before connecting to the sewer main. That is, if the water supplied to the bathtub reaches the level of the drain hole, it simply begins to be discharged through it into the sewer.
Fifthly, in many models, some external parts of the system also represent a certain decorative value.

We can also add that there are drain-overflow systems in which the overflow unit is also combined with a water supply system to the bathtub. How convenient it is is difficult to judge without trying it, but some people like it.

Specialized stores offer a wide selection of drain-overflow systems made from different materials. This variety ensures that even the most demanding customers will be able to find a suitable option for their bathtub.

Prices for siphon overflow WIRQUIN

Overflow siphon WIRQUIN

Despite the variety of models offered, each of them has common nodes:

1 – neck installed in the lower drain hole of the bathtub. It requires reliable sealing during installation (as, indeed, any other components of the system), for which the necessary seals are always included in the kit. As a rule, it is equipped with a grill that prevents large debris from entering the siphon.

2 – a siphon that creates a water seal against the penetration of odors from the sewer. Due to the traditional lack of space under the bathtub, it usually has very compact dimensions, often having a flat shape at the bottom. At the same time, this knot, one might say, “ties” all the elements of the drain and overflow with each other and the sewer pipe.

By the way, the volume of the siphon matters, since a water seal that is too “miniature” may not cope with its task. It is recommended to choose models in which the siphon holds at least 300 ml of water.

3 – pipe for connection to the sewer pipe. As a rule, it has a cylindrical section at the end, ideally sized for insertion into the socket of a standard sewer pipe with a diameter of 50 mm.

4 – overflow neck, installed on the top hole of the bathtub. Equipped with an angular pipe, which must be directed downwards during installation. In many models, this pipe is already “by default” connected to the pipe going to the siphon.

5 – pipe connecting the drain and overflow necks. It can be rigid or corrugated, allowing configuration changes both in length and in bend.

6 – a device of varying degrees of complexity, designed to close the drain neck when filling the bath.

By the way, it is precisely by this criterion, by the mechanism for closing the drain neck, that drain-overflow systems are classified into several groups.

Systems with simple mechanical overlap.
Semi-automatic systems.
The so-called automatic systems.

It should be noted that the names of some systems still have a significant degree of convention and are not entirely correct. But they have caught on and are used by both manufacturers and sellers of products. And in order to understand what each of the groups is, it makes sense to consider them in more detail, determine their advantages and disadvantages.

Features of simple mechanical systems

There is no trickery to the design of the mechanical system. There is an open overflow neck located on the wall of the bathtub. Sometimes it can be covered with a decorative overlay that does not reduce the overflow capacity and does not perform any other functions.

And the drain neck closes when necessary to fill the bath with a regular plastic or rubber stopper included in the delivery set. Usually there is also a chain or cord with which this plug is tied to the eye of the overflow neck - just so that it does not get lost.

This is still the most common version of the system that can be found everywhere. It is clear that “work management” comes down to the fact that when filling the bathtub with water, you must manually close the drain neck with a plug, and when emptying, the plug is simply pulled out of the drain.

The advantages of such mechanical drain-overflow systems include the following:

Affordable kit prices.
A simple algorithm for assembling and installing the system.
Long service life.
High reliability of the design - there is simply nothing to break here (this refers specifically to closing the drain).

There are few shortcomings, and even those can be considered rather conditional. So, some people don’t like the too “simple” look of the system, they say, it’s “yesterday.” Some complain about the inconvenience of controlling the supply and drainage of water while taking a bath. Another disadvantage is that sometimes the cork tends to get untied from the lace or chain and get lost (perhaps the reason for this is children’s playful hands). But purchasing a new plug for a ridiculous price is not difficult.

By the way, pay attention to one nuance, clearly visible in the illustration above. The siphon of the system may have an additional pipe for connecting a drain from another plumbing fixture. For example, if there is a washbasin next to the bathroom, then the drain from the sink can be directed exactly here, so as not to “produce” tees on the sewer pipe. Naturally, if there is no such need, then you should not purchase a siphon with an additional input. Alternatively, if this input is not in use, it should be securely plugged.

This version of the siphon design can be found on any of the drain-overflow systems under consideration.

Features of semi-automatic drain-overflow systems

The semi-automatic drain-overflow system is a more modern device, equipped with additional devices that increase the level of comfort in using plumbing equipment.

The general design of the system is similar to the mechanical version, but the following elements are additionally built into it:

A kind of “control unit” that allows you to lower and raise the main drain plug. The “working element” itself can be a rotary handwheel, a button, a valve or a handle mounted on the overflow neck. As a rule, these elements will have a certain decorative effect.
A cable or flexible shaft connecting this “control unit” and the mechanism for closing the drain plug. This element can be located outside or inside the pipe connecting the drain and overflow necks. A system with cables inside a tube would seem to look more aesthetically pleasing, however, its repair is much more difficult. Yes, aesthetics are not required here, since this unit of the system is not in plain sight anyway.
A plug installed on the main drain hole that acts as a valve.
A mechanism that converts the force of a cable or the torque created by a flexible shaft into translational movement of the plug to its extreme upper and lower positions.

The system works as follows:

Turning the handwheel (handle) or pressing a button leads to loosening or tensioning of the cable, or to turning the flexible shaft.
The transmitted force is converted into movement of a rocker arm or pusher located under the drain plug. The plug itself has a vertical rod in the lower part, which centers its position, since it fits into the guide sleeve of the drain neck, and its lower end rests against the swinging part of the rocker arm (pusher). Typically, this stem is equipped with a screw that allows you to change the overall length of the stem when adjusting the system.

If by turning the flywheel the pusher moves to the lower position, the drain plug falls freely onto the neck. Thanks to the precise fit and the presence of a seal, it is pressed tightly into its “saddle” by the pressure of the collected water, thereby ensuring an airtight shutoff of the drain.

When the flywheel is turned to another position, the pusher rises and transmits force to the rod, which, in turn, overcoming the water pressure, lifts the plug above the “saddle,” opening the way for water to drain from the bath.

This system also has its advantages and disadvantages, which you need to have information about.

So, the advantages of this design include the following points:

The semi-automatic system allows you, without bending down to the bottom of the bathtub, by turning the handle or pressing a button to close or open the main drain plug.
The semi-automatic device has a more aesthetic appearance than the traditional drain-overflow device.

The disadvantages of this system include the following points:

If the device is used too intensively, the cable may begin to jam and get stuck over time.
If the plumbing system uses hard water, then a limescale deposit may form on the rotating units, which will first impede their movement and then lead to jamming and failure.

It is clear that any mechanical link with a rotation unit always becomes an additional vulnerable point. The main types of breakdowns of such systems are the following defects:

Damage or severe wear of the control cable (flexible shaft), up to its breaking or breaking.
Mechanical damage (wear) of the plug, making it impossible to draw water into the bath. This may be abrasion of the o-ring or deformation of the valve part, that is, the plug does not provide a tight seal when closed. The rod may also become bent, causing it to not fit tightly to the seat. With any of these options, water will leak through the drain.
Breakage of the control handle (flywheel) due to limescale deposits or even due to the application of excessive rotational forces.

As you can see, there are many vulnerabilities. Therefore, when choosing a semi-automatic drain-overflow system, it is worth purchasing a truly high-quality model produced by a company that has gained a reputation for reliability and provides guarantees for its products.

Automatic systems

To tell the truth, there is, of course, no talk of automation here. To close or open the drain you still have to apply mechanical force. The only thing is that it is not transmitted through some kind of intermediate mechanism, but ends up directly on the drain plug.

That is, this plug is equipped with a spring and a fixation system, and works on the “click-cluck” principle. The entire mechanism is located directly in the drain body.

To close the main drain plug, simply press it lightly with your hand or toes. It will move down and lock in this position. The plug is opened in a similar manner - pressing it will remove it from the stopper and lift it under the action of a spring to the upper position - the drain is open. Therefore, you can control the filling of the bathtub while lying in it and without getting up from your seat.

The advantages of such a drain-overflow system include the following qualities:

Comfortable to use.
An elegant appearance that becomes a decorative element for the bath.
The absence of a transmission mechanism reduces the structure's vulnerability to breakdown or failure.

However, despite the modernity of the design and its ease of use, it also has its drawbacks:

To release water from a fully filled bath, willy-nilly you will have to roll up your sleeve to press the drain plug button
If the valve button fails, the entire drain-overflow system will have to be replaced.
Failures of the clamp with the plug spring are also noted. True, these parts can be replaced if you purchase them for models from the same manufacturer.
The small diameter of the drain hole, traditional for such models, can also be attributed to the “disadvantages” of the design, since the water leaves the bath rather slowly.

The likelihood of these breakdown problems occurring can be reduced by purchasing a quality product from a proven, reliable manufacturer who makes products only from high-quality materials.

There are also systems on sale that combine automatic drainage and overflow with a water collection function. The tap is located on the overflow neck. It turns out to be a kind of hybrid of a drain-overflow system with a mixer.

Such models are especially convenient in cases where it is not possible to conveniently position the mixer. For example, if the bathtub in the bathroom is installed far from the walls of the room.

But this case still applies to a greater extent specifically to mixers, since the system will require a rather complex connection to water pipes. And it will not be considered in the context of this publication.

Materials for manufacturing drain-overflow systems

For the production of drain-overflow systems, materials with certain qualities are used. For example, these include resistance to corrosion, temperature changes, as well as certain relevant hygienic standards.

Until recently, the main material used for manufacturing systems was predominantly ferrous metal - steel and cast iron, the main disadvantage of which is its unsightly appearance and susceptibility to corrosion. Therefore, today more modern materials are chosen for these devices. However, ferrous metal products are still found.

Iron alloys (steel and cast iron) are reliable and durable materials. Although products made from it quickly lose their original aesthetic appearance, they are used properly for a long time. The susceptibility to corrosion and the considerable weight of such products are among their main disadvantages. Over time, threaded connections can become so stuck that they cannot be disassembled. At present, if such systems are found, then, apparently, they are from old stocks produced many years ago. They are not popular.
In many systems, regardless of the main material used for making pipes, siphons, necks, external parts in contact with water are made of stainless steel. This option is optimal, better than just steel parts with a nickel or chrome plated coating - this is worth paying attention to when choosing a system.
Copper and alloys based on it are significantly superior to plastic products in strength and durability. Devices made from these metals often have a protective coating of nickel or chromium applied by electroplating. Nickel is an excellent, reliable and durable coating; it can be distinguished by the bluish tint of the parts. With proper care, devices made of non-ferrous metals will last for decades.

To visually determine the specific type of metal made, it is necessary to thoroughly inspect the lower and upper necks and pipes.

Copper products have a red tint, and they are somewhat inferior in strength to other metals.

Brass (an alloy of copper and zinc) has higher strength characteristics. This alloy can be identified by its light yellow tint.

Bronze (an alloy of copper with tin or other metals other than zinc and nickel) is even stronger than brass, and in terms of resistance to various influences it can be compared with steel products. Bronze has a dark tint, close to even brown.

It should be noted that any non-ferrous metal is excellent for the production of plumbing accessories. And since the overflow drain system, by definition, will not experience any serious mechanical and baric loads, they are made of copper alloys and carefully installed and will last a very long time.

Plastic drain-overflow systems have the most affordable price. They are great for any bathtub and have a high degree of versatility. With proper installation, careful operation and regular maintenance of the system, plastic products can last a long time.

If, of course, they are of high quality. Since on sale there are often systems with molding defects in plastic parts, with deformations, with poorly fitted threads in connections, made from brittle polymers or that acquire this fragility from contact with hot or cold water. Moreover, it can be difficult to predict this in advance. Strength indicators are of particular importance for parts that experience increased mechanical loads, that is, in semi-automatic systems, they transmit force to close and open the plug. It is they who most often become the “Achilles heel” of the kit.

That is, another argument to purchase products only from trusted manufacturers.

Criteria for selecting systems

When choosing a drain-overflow system, you should focus not only on the appearance of the structure, but also on other more important criteria, which include the following points:

Manufacturer of the product. To be sure of the reliability of the device, it is recommended to choose products from trusted manufacturers. To do this, it is best to consult in advance the reviews of users who have already installed one or another option and have been using it for more than one year.
System cost. For small budget options, the best option would be plastic equipment with a mechanical drain design. Automatic and semi-automatic systems are suitable for bathrooms designed in a certain style, as well as for those users who prefer comfortable operating conditions.
Determination of the quality of the manufacturing material:

— high-quality plastic (polypropylene) must have dense walls;

— for products made of non-ferrous metal, the surface must be smooth without scratches or dents;

— for systems made of ferrous metal, it is necessary to pay attention to the integrity of the structure, as well as to ensure that there are no dents on the surface of the products.

Compliance with the parameters of the bath, as well as compatibility of the siphon connections and the diameter of the sewer pipe. If the cross-sections of the pipes differ, you can use special plastic or elastic adapters.
Completeness of the delivery set. The kit with the main parts must contain connecting rings and sealing gaskets of the appropriate sizes and configurations

Additional system functions. For example, siphons may have several pipes for connecting to it, in addition to a bathtub, and other plumbing accessories. For example, if a sink or washing machine is installed next to the bathtub, you can connect one of these devices to the free pipe of the bathtub siphon. However, the branch does not have to be activated; if not necessary, it is closed with a sealed plug.
Preference should be given to systems in which external parts in contact with water are made of stainless steel. This gives the required strength, oxidation resistance, and neat appearance.

Trusted manufacturers of plumbing fixtures

A considerable number of companies from different countries of the world present their products on the Russian market. A wide range of products allows you to choose the most suitable option for the drain-overflow system in all respects. It is recommended to give preference to those manufacturers whose products are certified in accordance with international quality standards.

Such companies include, for example, the following:

Illustration	Brief information about the manufacturing company
	Geberit is a Swiss manufacturer presenting a wide range of plumbing fixtures, including drain-overflow systems, in the mid-price segment. Geberit produces equipment in a wide range of models, so you can choose the appropriate option for your specific application. This company produces products from plastic, chrome steel, brass and copper.
	"Alcaplast" is a Czech brand. The company is among the top largest manufacturers of plumbing plastic products in Europe. The products of this manufacturer are distinguished by their reliability, simplicity of design, interesting design, and quiet operation.
	Kaiser is a German company that produces bathtub trims made of bronze and chromed steel. It is recommended to choose equipment from this manufacturer for bathtubs with deep bowls, for which it is difficult to find a siphon with non-standard sizes, since the company presents models in a wide range of sizes.
	Viega is a German company that has gained its reputation thanks to the quality and reliability of its products. It produces flush-overflow systems made of plastic, stainless steel, bronze and brass. Viega designers have developed interesting design options for visible parts of the structure. The market offers a wide range of devices in shape and color. Affordable cost and ease of installation make the products of this company very popular among consumers. The drain-overflow systems of this manufacturer are characterized by a long period of trouble-free operation.
	"Hansgrohe" is a German manufacturer that produces drain-overflow systems of various designs made of plastic, steel, as well as combined options. The products are reliable and easy to use. Visible design details can have different design solutions, so from the Hansgrohe assortment you can choose a model to suit any bathroom design.
	WasserKraft is another German manufacturer offering a variety of trim options for bathtubs and sinks. The company produces systems from black and light plastic, steel, bronze and combined materials. At the same time, the company's designers and engineers have developed variants of models with very unusual shapes. Products, especially those made from chrome-plated steel, are distinguished not only by their aesthetic appearance, but also by their high reliability and long service life.
	"Jacob Delafon" is a French manufacturing company that produces plastic products and combined options. This manufacturer is quite popular in Russia, as the systems have proven themselves to be highly reliable and easy to install and operate.
	"Triton" is a domestic manufacturer that produces “drain-overflow” devices from plastic of different colors, as well as combined design options. The products have an affordable price, but at the same time they are distinguished by very high quality and reliability. You can take it!

Recommendations for installation and operation

Self-installation of a drain-overflow system

The installation diagram for bathtub piping is almost the same for all types of drain-overflow systems. Even without plumbing experience, it is quite possible to assemble and install the structure yourself. To do this, just carefully study the instructions included with the product.

However, all manufacturer's recommendations must be followed as closely as possible, otherwise the device may begin to leak or not function properly. It is recommended to entrust the installation of automatic and semi-automatic systems to specialists, otherwise the warranty provided by the manufacturer will not apply.

To make it easier to understand the diagram given by the manufacturer, below, as an example, we will consider the assembly and installation of the simplest drain-overflow system. But first you need to figure out what the main elements of its design are called and where they are located.

In the diagram, wide red lines separate the location of the system parts outside and inside the bath. Blue numbers show plastic parts. Purple numbers are metal parts. Rubber seals are indicated in black.

It should be correctly understood that each system model may have its own characteristics. But the general principle of the location of the main parts and assemblies remains the same.

1 - Plug closing the hole in the bathtub drain neck.

2 - Protective grille on the neck, designed to trap large debris.

2c - O-ring installed between the grate and the surface of the bath.

3 - Gasket installed around the bathtub drain hole from below.

4 - Drain neck with pipes.

5 - A screw that tightens the protective grille from the side of the bathtub and the drain neck underneath it.

6 - Nut for the coupling screw. It is located motionless in a special slot in the drain neck.

7 - Removable part of the siphon (for example, for periodic cleaning of accumulated sediment).

8 - Plastic union nuts for connecting the siphon to the pipes - drain neck and outlet.

9 - Cone gaskets.

10 - Adapter for connecting to a sewer pipe. It can have a rigid structure or be corrugated and flexible.

11 - The gasket is flat.

13 - Outlet pipe for connecting the overflow pipe.

14 - Corrugated pipe connecting the drain and overflow necks.

15 - Sealing gasket.

16 - Plastic nut for connecting the overflow pipe with the drain and overflow pipes.

17 - Overflow neck, installed in the corresponding upper hole of the bath.

18 - Gasket that ensures a tight fit of the overflow neck.

19 - Protective grille for the overflow hole.

20 - Fastening screw for the overflow grille. The fastening system is almost the same as on the drain neck

The installation process of such a system is completely simple and consists of the following steps:

The first step is to dismantle the old system, if it was standing. After this, the surfaces of the bath around the drain and overflow holes are thoroughly cleaned on both sides - there should be no traces of adhering dirt or rust there. It is immediately recommended to check the branch pipe (socket) of the sewer pipe to which the system will be connected - it must also be clean and have a high-quality sealing collar.
Next, the outlet pipe of the drain neck (pos. 4) and the adapter (pos. 10), which drains water from the siphon into the sewer (10), are mounted on the siphon. To do this, fixing nuts (pos. 8) are put on the pipe and adapter, with the threads facing towards the connection joint, and then the conical gasket (pos. 9) is pulled on, with the tapering side also towards the connection.
After this, the pipe and adapter are secured to the siphon using locking union nuts. It is better to do these operations first, as they say, on the table, since then, in the cramped conditions under the bathroom, it will be much more difficult to perform them.
Next, a gasket (item 3) is placed on top of the drain neck (item 4) - usually a special recess is provided for it. In this case, the neck with its upper widened part is pressed from the bottom side of the bathtub to its drain hole. In this case, it should be positioned so that the pipe (pos. 13) for connecting the overflow pipe faces the desired direction. In addition, you must immediately try to position the position of the siphon in the most convenient way, taking into account the location of the outlet pipe and the sewer pipe.
A sealing ring (pos. 2c) is also placed on the drain hole on the side of the bathtub, and a protective grill (pos. 2) is installed on top of it, which is pressed with a screw (pos. 5) screwed into the nut (pos. 6) located inside the drain neck. The screw is tightened to create a tight, permanent connection.
A nut (pos. 8) is also put on the second end of the adapter (pos. 10) with the thread outward, then the cone gasket (pos. 11) is tightened. This side of the adapter is connected to the sewer pipe using a corrugated pipe, which in this case is not included in the kit. Some systems do not have such an adapter at all - a pipe with a flexible corrugated section for connection to the sewer is mounted directly from the siphon body. The branch pipe of this pipe is inserted into the sewer socket. The cuff located in the socket will ensure the tightness of this connection.
The next step is to place a gasket (pos. 15) at the upper end of the overflow pipe, inside the locking union nut (pos. 16), after which the pipe is connected to the overflow neck (pos. 17).
The overflow pipe is connected to the drain pipe in a similar manner.
All that remains is to install the overflow neck (pos. 17) in place. The procedure is approximately the same as when installing the drain neck. A rubber gasket (pos. 18) is placed and the neck is pressed against the overflow hole on the outside of the bathtub. In this case, you should ensure that the flexible overflow pipe fits normally, bends smoothly along the outer surface of the bath, without “fractures”.
On the side of the bathtub, a protective grille (pos. 19) is installed in the overflow hole, pressed against the neck and secured with a screw (pos. 20), the nut for which is fixedly located in the neck.

At this point the assembly can be considered complete. After checking the correct assembly, a test can and should be carried out. First, you simply let water into the bath - you will immediately see if there are any leaks at the main connections. Then you need to close the drain with a stopper and draw a full bath so that the water begins to come out through the overflow. At this stage, both the functionality of the overflow and the absence of leaks in this part of the system are checked. The final step will be to check the tightness of the connections during a volley discharge of water - it happens that when simply passing a stream, the connections are dry, but when increased pressure is created and when all the pipes are completely filled, signs of a leak appear. If the bath is empty and all connections are dry, the job is done efficiently. If there are signs of leakage, you will have to tighten the nuts, and possibly replace seals that have lost elasticity or are deformed. After this, the check is repeated, again in full.

It should be noted that many craftsmen additionally coat the connecting nodes, especially in the places where the gratings adhere to the surface of the bathtub, with silicone sealant. But when purchasing quality systems, this is usually not necessary. Unless the drain-overflow system is installed on a very old steel or cast iron bathtub, around the drain holes of which there are irregularities caused by corrosion or chipped enamel.

Recommendations for the operation and care of the drain-overflow system

In order for the drain-overflow system to serve for a long time and not unexpectedly fail, it needs appropriate maintenance that will help maintain its functionality. Preventive measures are not difficult to carry out, and they consist of the following actions:

Periodic inspection of the system. In particular - connecting nodes, for leaks, as well as mechanical damage. It is especially important to do this if the lower part of the bathtub is not covered with a protective screen and there is a possibility, for example, of touching one of the parts during cleaning.

Cleaning the siphon with citric acid diluted in hot water, or with one of the chemicals intended for cleaning sewer pipes. This event is recommended to be carried out at least once every three months.
In some cases, it makes sense to change the rubber sealing gaskets of the system from time to time, since under the influence of water, especially if it is hard, they lose their elasticity and the joints may begin to leak. But this is rarely resorted to - usually seals, once properly installed, serve no less than the siphon and necks.
It is necessary to periodically turn the rotating mechanism back and forth if a semi-automatic system is installed, especially if the bathroom has not been used for a long time.
If a visual inspection reveals even minor cracks on the siphon, it must be replaced. Such damage can lead to a serious emergency situation, the elimination of which will cost much more than replacing the siphon.

* * * * * * *

If you follow all the recommendations for selecting and installing the system, as well as for regular maintenance, the drain and overflow will last a very long time without causing problems to the owners. Installing the system is not so difficult, the main thing is that all connecting nodes are sealed. But if during installation or during operation incomprehensible problems appear, then it is better to immediately contact a good plumber.

And to help those who are planning to install a bathtub drain and overflow system on their own, there will be a video below:

Video: How to install a bathtub drain and overflow system yourself

The installation of a new bath is accompanied by the replacement of plumbing fixtures and. They also install a new siphon with a drain-overflow system for the bathtub - a necessary element that will protect the room from flooding.

Bath overflow drain device

Overflow drain for a bathtub or sink, in simple terms - a piping is a structure that redirects excess water that enters the bathtub or sink into the sewer system, preventing it from overflowing. The design of this drainage system is almost the same for both a bathtub and a sink or kitchen sink. It is a little more difficult to install the harness on a bathtub, so we will consider this option, and we will consider the option of installing a siphon on a sink or sink in more detail in another review.

Structurally, the bathtub overflow drain consists of:
- siphon with water seal;
— two gratings – on the outlet and on the overflow receiver;
- drain tube
— outlet for connection to the sewer;

The set of devices that have an additional bathtub spout includes hoses for connecting to the water supply. It can be installed on bathtubs of any type; the holes for it are prepared initially by the manufacturer.

For bathtubs with individual design and design features, the overflow drain can be supplied as a set.

Attention! The overflow drain cannot always cope with the pressure of water that is poured into the bathtub. If water comes in faster than it leaves, flooding is inevitable.

Depending on the principle of operation, the drain-overflow can be of several types:

ordinary (consists of a corrugated tube connected to a siphon, the intake hole is closed with a simple plug);
auto;
semi-automatic;
bath spout with drain-overflow system.

Material of manufacture

The choice of material for making the trim largely depends on the personal preferences of the bathtub owner.

Conventionally, all materials can be divided into three groups:

1. Plastic or polypropylene. The most commonly used material. The choice in favor of such models is made when a screen is installed on the bathtub, which hides all plumbing wiring.

The advantages of polypropylene strapping include:
— absence of corrosion and plaque formation on the inner surface;
— ease of installation and dismantling. Their design includes a corrugated pipe, so the length can be easily adjusted;
- low price. Of all types of strapping, this is the cheapest, but in terms of service life it is in no way inferior to its analogues.

Important! Despite its good performance, the overflow drain can become damaged or clogged. Therefore, when installing the screen, it is necessary to leave access to it in case of unexpected repairs.

2. Ferrous metal. It does not have a very presentable appearance, so to use it, it is also advisable to cover the bathtub with a screen. But, this drawback is justified by its reliability and long service life.

3. Non-ferrous metal (copper, bronze, brass). The harness made from such materials is often chrome plated and has a rather attractive appearance. Due to its relatively high cost, it is also used as a decorative element - for bathtubs that do not include a screen. For example, on beautiful carved legs or irregular shapes.

Advantages of models made of non-ferrous metals:
— high corrosion resistance (especially for copper);
- attractive appearance;
— reliability and long service life.

Disadvantages - the installation process is more complex than, for example, polypropylene.

Types of strapping

Automatic strapping system

The operation of any harness is based on the same principle, which means they have almost the same design.

The automatic drain overflow for the bathtub is distinguished by the design of the plug with which the outlet hole is equipped. Pressing it either opens the drain hole or closes it. This design (click-clack) allows you to take a bath by simply adjusting the water level - when the level rises, open the plug with your foot and release the required amount.

The automatic system also has its drawbacks - if you choose it not on the principle of quality, but on the basis of the lowest price, there is a high probability of the automatic plug failing. In this case, the entire bathtub overflow drain will have to be replaced.

It is better to choose bronze or brass from the materials used to manufacture such a system, since, for example, polypropylene will quickly require replacement.

Bath siphon - automatic and semi-automatic

Semi-automatic strapping system

The semi-automatic bath overflow drain has a design similar to the automatic one. But to drain water, it does not use a plug, but a special connecting cable.

The peculiarity of such systems is that water is drained by turning the lid of the hole located not on the bottom, but on the wall of the bathroom. The lid is connected with a plug by a connecting cable and, when turned, closes or opens the water drain.

The design of this cover can be different - handle, valve, lever, etc., depending on the design of the entire device.

Important! The connecting cable may run inside or next to the drain hose. When choosing the first option, remember that if the cable is damaged, the entire drain system must be replaced.

The convenience and practicality of the semi-automatic device lies in the fact that when using it there is no need to put your hands in the water to drain the water.

Bath spout with flush-overflow-fill system

A bathtub spout included in the overflow drain system is a rather rarely used option, but in some cases it is convenient.

A bath spout is used when there is no possibility or desire to install a regular faucet. The pipe is led directly to the overflow hole, through which water flows. That is, the work is carried out in two modes - filling and draining.

Such a bathtub spout is guaranteed to prevent the room from flooding, since when it overflows with water, the water drain at the bottom of the bathtub is automatically triggered.

Another design option is when water is supplied to the bottom hole of the bathtub, this allows you to draw water almost silently.

Installing a bathtub spout and connecting it to the water supply is quite difficult on your own, so you may need the help of a specialist.

Installation of a bathroom drain and overflow

It is quite easy to install the strapping system yourself, even without special skills. This work is carried out after the bathtub is installed in its place and securely fixed.

Installation is carried out in several stages:
- installation begins from the bottom of the structure - a drain grate is installed, a siphon is attached to it - a tee, which leads to the sewer, directly to the bathtub and to the upper drain hole;

Important: Do not forget to lubricate the fastening parts (drain grid and siphon) to the drain hole with silicone.

— a grate and a tube are installed in the upper drain hole;
— a corner is installed that combines the drain and overflow holes.

When assembling the entire structure, it is necessary to ensure that all connections are securely sealed. The harness comes with sealing gaskets, but for reliability, all connections can additionally be treated with silicone sealant.

We don’t often think about how the most basic and familiar things in the house work, until we are faced with the question of repairing or replacing this thing. However, having understood the operating principle of this or that equipment, we can not only easily choose the most suitable option among dozens presented in stores, but also extend its service life on our own.

Today we will look at the bathtub drain and overflow system, learn about its structure, operating principle and the available varieties.

A drain-overflow or piping is a system that allows water to drain from the bathtub into the sewer system and protects the bathtub from overflowing. In other words, the drain-overflow consists of two holes - in the bottom and wall of the bathtub, which are connected to each other and to the drainage system using a system of tubes and hoses. We will talk in more detail about the various modifications of drains and overflows below.

Traditional system

Traditional drain-overflow we have been observing in our apartments for many decades. This system allows you to fill the bathtub with water by closing the drain with a stopper on a chain. It consists of the following elements:

Drain neck installed in a hole at the bottom of the bathtub and connected to the rest of the network using a direct water outlet;
Overflow neck installed in a hole on the wall of the bathtub and connected to the water supply network via a side drainage system;
Siphon– this is a curved pipe that acts as a shutter and prevents unpleasant odors from the sewer from entering the room;
Connecting hose– this is a corrugated tube that serves to drain water from the overflow into the siphon;
Outlet pipe– drains water from the siphon into the sewer system.

This is a standard set of elements that make up a traditional drain and overflow system. Any person who does not have special knowledge in the field of plumbing can assemble and disassemble such a structure. The most common procedure that sooner or later almost every owner of a traditional drain and overflow will have to carry out is replacing the connecting parts of the structure, in other words, the sealing gaskets.

Semi-automatic

A later modification of the traditional drain and overflow are semi-automatic systems. These systems retained the drain siphon and drainage pipes from their predecessor, but otherwise the design has undergone some changes. It consists of:

Control unit– a system that allows you to raise and lower the plug. This could be a button, a rotary ring, a handle or a valve;
Traffic jams, which acts as a valve;
Trosika, controlling the traffic jam.

Impact on the control unit: pressing the button and turning the valve activates the cable, which, when tensioned or loosened, raises or lowers the plug. In this design, the overflow hole is hidden behind the control unit. The external, visible elements of drains and overflows often have a beautiful and stylish design, which will certainly add a certain amount of aesthetics. Another advantage of this design is that raising and lowering the stopper becomes very convenient, so you don’t even have to bend over the bathtub and wet your hands.

The disadvantage of this system is its very relative reliability. If you save money and buy an inexpensive model, it will not serve you for very long, so it is better to opt for more expensive products or get by with a traditional drain-overflow system.

Machine

The automatic bathroom drain is not much different in structure and principle of operation from the designs we discussed above. The main innovation is a special automated plug valve. This plug is equipped with a spring with a lock. When pressed, the plug drops and clogs the bathtub drain hole. When pressed again, it rises and the water drains. Bathtubs for bathing children are often equipped with an automatic drain. The presence of a valve button allows you to empty the bath without turning it over.

Automatic system - the most ergonomic of all. Control can be carried out not only with your hands, but also with your feet. In addition, the visible part of this structure takes up very little space. Buttons are available in a variety of designs - among them you can find brass, antique-style, or chrome-plated, high-tech style.

Disadvantage of an automatic drain system The problem is that replacing the valve button is very difficult. If it fails, you will have to replace the entire drain and overflow system. However, this problem can be avoided if you purchase a device from a reliable, trusted manufacturer that works only with high-quality materials. We will talk about what materials are used in the production of bathtub drains and overflows in the next section.

Materials

For the manufacture of bathtub drains and overflows, plumbing plastic or metal is usually used.

Plastic the option is always cheaper, but not always of lower quality. Thus, plastic is less susceptible to corrosion, which can be caused by water and the impurities present in it. In addition, the plastic waste overflow is very easy to install.

The disadvantage of plastic models is their not entirely aesthetic appearance. Meanwhile, if a screen is provided under the bathtub, then the main part of the structure will remain invisible, so there is no need to worry about what impression the “insides” of your bathtub will make on guests.

In addition to plastic models, the market offers options for drain-overflow systems, made of ferrous or non-ferrous metal. Metal structures look very elegant and, at the same time, solid. They are indispensable if you have a bathtub that does not require a closing screen.

The most beautiful overflow plums are made from an alloy of non-ferrous metals - bronze, copper and brass. An additional coating is applied on top of the product, which determines its color - chrome, nickel and others. Metal structures are more expensive, but also stronger and more durable than plastic ones.

Manufacturers and prices

It's no secret that the highest quality plumbing fixtures, like many other groups of products, are produced in European countries. The drain-overflow system is no exception, so when purchasing it, special attention should be paid to European manufacturers.

The German company Kaiser took its first steps in the field of production of automatic drain and overflow systems. Today, a drain and overflow from this manufacturer will cost you 2000-2500 rubles.

The Swiss company Geberit has also proven itself very well, engaged in the production of high-quality sanitary ware, including metal drain and overflow systems. The drain design of this company costs about 2000-4000 rubles, depending on the material from which it is made. You can be confident in the quality of the products of this company, since it provides a ten-year guarantee on its products.

The Grohe company, also German, produces high-quality overflow plums. The products of this company are quite expensive. So, a plastic drain-overflow costs on average 5,000-6,000 rubles.

Good drain and overflow systems made of plastic are made by the Italian company Vega and the Czech company Alcaplast. The products of these companies can be purchased for 2000-3000 rubles.

DIY installation

Installing a drain and overflow is a responsible matter, since the tightness of the bathtub will largely depend on the quality of the work performed. However, despite the apparent complexity of the task, even a non-professional can cope with installing a drain and overflow on a bathtub.

Work can begin only after the bathtub is installed on the support, leveled and secured. It is necessary that the gap between the bathtub and the floor be at least 15 cm.

To begin with, attach a tee to the drain hole, not forgetting to lay the sealing gasket, and secure everything with a screw. Then attach a siphon to the outlet of the tee, secure the structure with a nut and seal with a conical rubber cuff. Next, take the overflow neck and attach it to the siphon outlet running on the side. At the end, attach the spout tube to the siphon and take it to the sewer. Don't forget about the gaskets at each stage!

After installation, be sure to check the entire system for leaks. Fill the tub and see if water droplets appear at the joints. If leaks are detected, tighten connections or use sealant.

Overflow drain systems do not require special care. If you have a semi-automatic or automatic system, periodically treat external metal parts with glass cleaners or special cleaning products to maintain the original shine. The internal parts of the structure must be periodically inspected for leaks. In the event of depressurization, it is usually sufficient to change the sealing gaskets or tighten the connection.

The main cause of concern with the drain-overflow system is a clogged siphon. This happens when a lot of hair or dirt accumulates in the drain. In this situation, a plunger or a homemade device consisting of wire and a thin brush usually helps. You can also try various chemicals that contain alkali to remove blockages. These products can also be used to prevent blockages.

Now you know a little more about the principle of operation of the bathtub drain and overflow system and its varieties. We hope that our article will help you not to get confused in the store and make the right choice!

Such an important task as choosing a bathtub must be approached with careful preparation and all the nuances of the upcoming installation must be taken into account. In addition to the bathtub itself, legs and other parts are included in the kit. Special attention should be paid to the drain-overflow system, which will be discussed in this article.

What it is?

Few domestic consumers are unfamiliar with the good old siphon along with a stopper on a chain. This, in fact, is the basic design of the drain-overflow system. Nowadays, these systems are increasingly automated, and now it is possible to drain the water without pulling out the plug yourself.

These days, plumbing stores sell many types of similar designs. Most often, they are included immediately with the bathtub, but it is best to purchase it separately on your own.

Structural features

The bathtub drain-overflow system is divided into two types according to the type of design: automatic and semi-automatic.

The siphon machine is quite easy to use. It has another name - “click-click” and is launched by simply pressing the plug located at the bottom. After this, the drain opens, followed by pressing it closes. The main part of such a mechanism is a spring attached to the plug. The entire structure is located in such a way that it is very convenient to drain the water while lying down only by pressing your foot after a bath procedure.

Moving on to the topic of the siphon of a semi-automatic device, it is important to note that, unlike an automatic machine, it is not so susceptible to breakdowns and if problems arise, reasonable and timely repair of the mechanism will fix everything. In this case, the design of the machine will have to be completely changed to a new one.

The semi-automatic drain and overflow is also started manually. A special rotating head closes the hole on the wall of the bathtub, and it is also connected to the drainage mechanism. They are connected by a cable mechanism, which allows you to open the drain mechanism when unscrewing the head on the bathtub wall. The main disadvantage of these designs is the jamming of the mechanism.

The main difference between these two designs is the price. Which option suits you best is just a matter of taste and comfort.

The design of mechanisms, their advantages and disadvantages

Let us analyze the device of each design in more detail. As noted earlier, the good old black stopper in the bathroom can be replaced by either an automatic siphon, or a semi-automatic drain-overflow or, as it is also called, a bathtub fitting.

While the principle of operation of the machine's siphon is quite clear, the design of a semi-automatic machine is somewhat more complicated. A plug (swivel head) with a plastic or chrome-plated plastic cap closes the hole on the wall of the bathtub. Another plug with the same chrome cap is located on the drain hole. These two plugs are connected to each other by a cable drive.0

The bottom plug is a pin with a hat that closes due to its gravity. The bottom plug opens if you turn the top one half a turn. The entire structure works thanks to a cable drive that transmits impulse.

At their discretion, buyers can purchase plastic plugs or chrome-plated plugs for greater durability.

The semi-automatic drain-overflow system has significant disadvantages, which most often consist of breakdowns of various parts of the mechanism. Over time, the drive cable begins to jam, the plug may fall too deeply into the drain hole, and it also happens that the pin becomes shortened and its length becomes unsuitable for further use.

All these small malfunctions can be easily repaired; it will be enough to disassemble the structure and adjust it yourself. Therefore, it is logical to assume that the cable on the outside will be easier to repair than the cable on the inside.

An electronically controlled siphon, in addition to being more expensive than a semi-automatic one, will also be difficult to repair. Most often, if it breaks, it will need to be replaced.

Another important point is that designs with a water seal are always preferable to models without it. A water seal is a special curved section of pipe that accumulates water. The water is changed every time the bathroom is used. Thanks to this, unpleasant odors from the sewer do not pass through the pipe into the bathroom of the living space. As a rule, today almost all models are equipped with a water seal with liquid release in the form of a strangely curved pipe.

Whatever your choice turns out to be, you are unlikely to want to go back to a cork with an elastic band.

Manufacturing materials

Such systems can be made from various materials. As a result, models may have different prices and have different characteristics. Most often, manufacturers choose those materials whose processing process has been established for centuries, mostly avoiding the use of new technologies. A striking example of this is the manufacture of these plumbing fixtures from various metal alloys.

Several traditional materials are often used to make a siphon.

Brass, bronze. Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc, and bronze is an alloy of copper and tin. Such models always have a high price, but are also of good quality. A brass or copper siphon is used when decorating a bathroom in a special antique style.

Such systems are very resistant, easy to use, durable, and can withstand high temperatures. If chromium is used for sputtering, the structure acquires a pleasant metallic color, and its service life is further extended.

Separately, it is worth noting the difference between brass and bronze. The main difference is that bronze can be in contact with water for a long time, while brass cannot; for this it will require treatment in the form of various sprayings.

The most common option is cast iron(an alloy of iron and carbon). This alloy has been traditionally used for several centuries for the manufacture of various sanitary equipment. One of the striking advantages of cast iron is its strength, but its disadvantage is its extreme susceptibility to corrosion.

Despite the fact that various plumbing fixtures are most often made from cast iron, installing such a siphon for a bathtub is very rare. Such a siphon is usually installed only on a cast iron bathtub.

Such cast iron structures quickly become overgrown with various deposits, are difficult to clean and cannot be repaired. If such problems occur, they must be replaced. The bulky dimensions of the structure and the small space under the bathtub can complicate this process.

Plastic. It has gained wide popularity in the modern market. The production of such models does not cost too much, and, therefore, the price for them is also not overpriced. They are resistant to corrosion and aggressive chemical compounds in the form of powders, detergents, and chlorine bleaches.

Of the obvious shortcomings, there is one significant one - it must be regularly replaced, as it becomes thinner over time, thereby becoming unusable.

How to assemble and install?

At the final stage, you need to close the drain hole and fill the bath with water. Then, when water flows through the drain pipe, carefully inspect the entire structure for holes. You can place a dry cloth or paper on the surface under the system. Drops on it will immediately show the result.

As a rule, different designs have their own special requirements for installation, therefore, following the attached instructions, you can correctly install this or that type of siphon.

Manufacturers and reviews

Drain and overflow systems from Viega and Geberit have proven themselves as products of average quality and average price category. Their systems are made from copper, brass or chrome. According to buyers, Viega systems are slightly better in quality than Geberit.

A luxury product is the automatic flush and overflow Abelone. The material of manufacture is copper with various coatings. Such a system can withstand up to 50,000 opening and closing cycles. This pleasure costs a little more than a semi-automatic machine, 3200-3500 rubles. The model received high marks, but is not as popular as semi-automatics.

The purchase of a new bathtub is always accompanied by the purchase of a drainage system, which is why many people ask the question: which drain-overflow is better - automatic or semi-automatic? To give preference to one system or another, you need to familiarize yourself with the features of their design and the differences from traditional bathtub fittings.

How does a drain and overflow work?

The drainage system serves to discharge water into the sewer and prevents the bath from overflowing. The traditional design contains:

Drain neck located at the bottom of the bathtub;
Plug for closing the drain hole;
Overflow neck installed on the wall of the bathtub;
Siphon with water seal;
Tubes connecting the necks, siphon and drainage system.

What is the difference between semi-automatic and automatic drain-overflow

The only difference between the improved bathroom piping and the usual one is that the drain hole is closed not by a removable plug, but by a valve. In a semi-automatic system, it opens and closes with a special mechanism with a steel cable. The control unit is mounted in a stylish housing and located above the overflow. It allows you to conveniently raise and lower the valve shut-off element by turning the chrome ring.
The automatic drain valve has a button and a spring-loaded moving part that locks in the open and closed positions. To open the valve, you need to press the button, and when you press it again, the drain hole closes.

Which drain and overflow is better - automatic or semi-automatic?

Each system has its own advantages, so it is difficult to give a definite answer to this question. On the one hand, a semi-automatic device allows you to open the drain without getting your hands wet, and on the other hand, the automatic system is more convenient due to the ability to control the valve with both your hand and foot. From the point of view of durability, we can still recommend a semi-automatic valve, since the automatic valve has a more complex design and its parts are made of plastic. Whatever your preference, we advise you to purchase waste and overflow from well-known manufacturers - Geberit, Kaiser, Viega, etc.