Pop-Up Bath Plug Won't Stay Down: Troubleshooting

The simple mechanism of using links and levers to make the drain stopper go up and down for sealing the bathtub is what a pop-up bath plug provides.

But you’ve figured out that your pop up bath plug won’t stay down no matter how much you try. That can happen from many issues. However, fixing it initially requires some basic troubleshooting.

To fix a pop-up bath plug that won’t stay down, consider adjusting the internals that might hamper its movement. You may also need to clean buildups and replace anything that has worn out.

This requires understanding the mechanism of this device. Let me help you with that and more in this guide today!

Getting a good understanding of the pop-up bath plug mechanism is the first step you should take to solve this problem. This is about realizing the functionality of the pop-up bathtub drain stopper and how it interlinks with the plug.

So how do pop-up plugs work?

The pop-up plug works through a vertical lever that stays connected with another horizontal lever. This second lever stays attached to the drainage plug and enables the popping up and down mechanism.

If you have previously tried fixing the bathtub trip lever, you will be familiar with the overflow plate lever. This is the same type of lever that operates the pop-up stopper drain.

With the movement of the lever:

The overflow drainpipe’s connecting rod linkage gets engaged
This pivots a pop-up stopper-connected rocker arm
The connecting rod’s underneath end has a spring that presses downwards
This spring then triggers the rocker arm to operate the stopper

Again similar to the trip lever style, this was also not expensive. However, you may have to pay extra for maintenance and care.

One more thing to note about this type is that the mechanism is on the complex side. And that’s why the stopper is prone to collecting grime and hair quickly.

Targeting the exact issue and finding out why the pop-up bath plug is not working is what we will do next. Here I have listed the most common causes of this situation:

The build-up is by far the most common cause behind a pop-up plug malfunctioning. It can be an accumulation of mineral deposits, hair, soap scum, and other debris around the plug mechanism not allowing it to stay down.
The worn-out condition of moving parts can also be the cause. This includes the linkage and lever arm.
The connection between the parts can be loose or broken—especially the linkage that attached the plug to the lever arm.
Improper adjustment of the adjustable screws or nuts that are used for controlling the movement of the plug can also be a leading cause.
Stiffness and rough movement due to rust formed on the plug’s component can also be the cause.
Perhaps the installation of the pop-up plug was not done correctly. This is most likely the case if you have recently replaced any part.
Deformation or misalignment of any drain assembly component can hamper the functionality of the plug.

Now exactly what to do when your bath plug won’t stay closed? Let’s try some basic troubleshooting for now. This includes removing the overflow cover plate, adjusting the linkage, checking the seal, removing any hair or debris, and reassembling.

Adjust Rocker Linkage Position and Stopper Heights

Do you know exactly what causes a pop-up drain stopper to get stuck? Or unable to make proper sealing? The reason is improper positioning of the rocker linkage or the stopper height.

You need to adjust these back to the right placement to solve the issue. Now this can be done in several ways. But you should always follow the instructions given inside the manual.

I will give you a general idea of the whole process. But depending on the type of popup plug, it can be different.

Here’s How to Fix a Pop Up Bathtub Drain Stopper by Adjusting the Overflow Assembly Through the Striking Rod:

Remove the overflow plate by loosening the screws holding it.
Carefully pull the plate away from the assembly.
Next, you want to detach the lever from the hole for overflow. Partial pulling is recommended.
You will discover a nut that helps in lengthening or shortening the rod assembly.
If you want to raise the stopper, lengthen the rod assembly.
For dropping the lever down, you need to shorten the rod assembly.
Place the assembly back and put the cover plate on it.

Bring the stopper along with the rocker arm out from the drain.
You will find rubber seals along it, check and replace damaged ones.
If there is hair or other build-up, clean it.
Next, you want to find a nut on the underside. This nut allows you to shorten or lengthen the connection with the rocker’s arm.
Once you have adjusted this nut for the right connection between the stopper and the rocker’s arm, reassemble the arm and stopper back into the hole for the drain.
Make sure the flange is seated nicely on.
Clean any hair or soap residue from the drain. Replace the stopper assembly if it’s damaged.

Checking for Leaks Around the Drain and Overflow Plate

This troubleshooting also involves checking for leaks in two of the most common areas. These are the drain and the surrounding overflow plate.

This also makes the pop-up plug unable to stay down. If you notice leaks, use a plumber’s putty to fix them. Silicone-based caulks can also help. You will need to apply these around the drain flange and overflow plate.

Keep in Mind :

Before trying any of these fixes, don’t forget to turn off the water supply. Also, you must contact a professional in case there are underlying complicated issues you don’t find easy to fix.

This is often the last resort. You may need to just change the old pop-up bath plug and other parts to it for the system to work fine.

Pop-Up Bath Plug Replacement — **Source**: Thespruce.com

For this, you will need a few tools. Gather screwdrivers, suitable pliers, and replacement parts. You may also need a bathroom cleaner product.

The plug is already in the open position I am guessing. However, when it’s not, you need to flip the overflow faceplate lever to bring the plug into the open position.
Now you have access to the drain and plug to comfortably remove the rocker arm assembly.
For the removal, you can use your hands. But a set of pliers may make it easy to squeeze on the sides of the stopper to pull it out straight.
While pulling, you don’t want to apply too much force. This is because you need to bring the plug, stopper, and rocker all at the same time.

Using a screwdriver unscrew the overflow faceplate and keep it aside. You should have access to the lever and rod assembly.
Without damaging the lever, rod, or spring, carefully pull out the rod assembly. If the assembly seems stuck, this is the time to apply some grease on the rod and spring.

Finally go over each piece including the rocker arm, spring, rod, stopper, lever, and pop-up plug to look for any sign of damage. Replace the parts that are cracked, warped, or rusted.
Reassembly everything back to place by reversing the whole process. Make sure to clean the drain and stopper with a bathroom cleaner before putting them back.

Regularly check for soap scum and hair build-up to keep the mechanism clean. Clogging is the first step towards hindering a smooth operation.
Never use excessive force when using the pop-up plug. This can cause misalignment of the component and lead to such a situation.
Use a good quality lubricant to grease the moving parts occasionally. This will not only make the operation smooth but also prevent rusting.
Dropping objects into the drain can cause blockages and similar problems.
Treat leaks around the drain area and overflow plate as soon as you discover them.
Check the alignment of the linkage and stopper once in a while to make sure the plug works without disruption.

Wrapping Up

And there you have solutions to try when the pop up bath plug won’t stay down. Now it’s also possible that a serious underlying issue is actually causing the scene.

And if you are unable to figure out the exact cause or fail to fix the problem even after trying all of these, don’t delay calling a professional. In some cases, it’s best to leave these tasks to the experts.

I will see you in my next guide soon, take care!