Ultimate Guide on Parts of a Bathtub: Names, Functions & Diagram

Overview of Bathtub Parts

A bathtub is a hydrotherapeutic apparatus widely used in residential and commercial washrooms. It comprises a water reservoir that allows individuals to submerge their bodies for relaxation or cleansing. Bathtubs come in various materials, such as porcelain, acrylic, and fiberglass, and manufacturers offer different sizes and configurations to cater to diverse bathroom layouts and personal preferences. The alcove tub, designed to be installed against three walls, is the most commonly used type of bathtub. Parts of a bathtub include the drain, overflow, faucet, handles, and jets (if applicable). These bathtub parts combine to guarantee efficient water drainage and a comfortable bathing experience. Some bathtub models have additional features, such as air jets, LED lighting, and temperature controls, enhancing the hydrotherapy experience.

Parts of a Bathtub Diagram

Parts of a Bathtub, Names, Functions & Diagram

Bathtub Parts Names

Tub
Water Supply
Water Supply Pipes
Shutoff Valves
Hand Shower
Heater
Drain
Overflow Drain
Waste Outlet
Diverter Pipe
Handles
Jets

Bathtub Grab Bars:
Bathtub Headrest:
Tile or Surrounding:
Apron:
Non-Slip Surface:
Air Bath System:
Rim
Flexible Connector
Trap
Retaining Nut
Decorative Panel
Lining

Parts of a Bathtub and Their Functions

Tub

After a long and exhausting day, a calming and renewing sensation is provided by the bathtub, a key bathroom fixture. It can be made from various materials, such as acrylic, fiberglass, or cast iron, and manufacturers offer it in multiple sizes and forms to match different bathroom layouts.

The bathtub can be installed in various ways, including freestanding, built-in, or up against a wall. It can also include several amenities, including built-in chairs, whirlpool jets, and overflow drains. To ensure the highest possible level of comfort and relaxation, one must select the appropriate material, size, and form.

Faucet

A tap is a typical home appliance that offers access to water for several uses, including hand washing, tooth brushing, and filling containers.

But faucets are considerably more complex than they first appear. Faucets are an interesting aspect of everyday life, from their history to contemporary styles. In this post, we shall examine faucets’ extremely distinctive and educational features.

Water Supply

The municipal water system typically provides the water, which connects to the home through a water meter and a main cutoff valve. Pipes and valves send the water to the bathtub and other home appliances.

Water Supply Pipes

The pipes that carry water from the main supply line to the tub are the bathtub’s lifelines. These pipes are usually PEX, PVC, or copper, and the water demand of the fixture determines their size.

The bathtub’s placement and distance from the main water supply will determine the size and length of the pipes. The pipes are attached to the bathtub by a valve, which controls the water flow into the tub, and a spout or tap.

The bathtub is supplied with water by two pipes. The first one provides hot water, and the second is chilly.

Shutoff Valves

The plumbing system, which includes the water supply for the bathtub, depends on shutoff valves. These valves, located throughout the water supply pipes at various locations, control the water flow into the bathtub.

The primary cutoff valve, which normally sits next to the water meter, turns off the water supply to the entire house in an emergency. Near the bathtub, there may also be shutoff valves that you may use to cut off the water supply to the fixture while performing maintenance or repairs.

Different Types of Valves, Names & Pictures

Hand Shower

The hand shower is an easy addition to the bathtub, giving you extra bathing options.

Users of hand showers can rinse off soap and shampoo or direct a more concentrated stream of water for cleaning. Hand showers are normally installed on a bracket on the tub’s side. Hand showers can be connected to the tub’s water supply or a different water source and valve.

Heater

The heater supplies hot water for bathing, and you can place it in the bathtub. You can also install heaters in alternative areas like the garage or basement, and they can run on electricity, gas, or solar energy.

The bathtub’s size and the amount of hot water the household uses will determine the heater’s size and capacity. Especially in colder months, a heater may make bathing more relaxing and comfortable. To avoid any safety risks or damage to the bathtub, it is crucial to fit and maintain the heater correctly.

Drain

The drain, which permits water to drain after you take a bath. The drain is usually positioned at the bottom of the tub. It connects to a pipe that enters the house’s plumbing system.

Bathtub drains come in various designs, including push-pull, lift-and-turn, and trip levers. Each device is distinct and has a different function.

Overflow Drain

Most bathtubs include an overflow drain as a safety precaution. When the tub is full, it is situated above the water line at the top of the tub.

The overflow drain lets extra water drain if the water level gets too high, keeping the tub from overflowing. Usually, the main and overflow drain share a pipe that enters the plumbing system.

Waste Outlet

The home’s plumbing system sends the wastewater from the bathtub through the waste pipe, sometimes called the waste outlet. The waste exit is typically situated below the drain. It is joined to the same pipe as the drain and overflow drain.

Proper installation and maintenance of waste outlets help prevent plumbing system blockages and backups.

Diverter Pipe

Some bathtubs with showerhead attachments require the diverter pipe as a vital part. It lets you change the water flow between the showerhead and the bathtub tap.

You may control the water flow to the appropriate spot by connecting the diverter pipe to the bathtub tap and showerhead.

Handles

In a bathtub, the handles regulate the temperature and water flow. There are several handle variations, including single- and double-handle options.

While double-handle handles offer separate controls for hot and cold water, single-handle handles are simpler to operate and enable more precise temperature control.

Jets

In contemporary baths, jets are a common element. Pressurized water is released through tiny apertures on the sides or bottom of the tub, giving the user a massage.

You may change the intensity and direction of the water flow by adjusting the jets. Skirt

Bathtub Grab Bars

In every bathtub, grab bars are a necessary safety component. Designers ensure that these grab bars give the user a comfortable grip when entering and exiting the bathtub by frequently crafting them from sturdy materials such as stainless steel or brass.

Grab bars can be mounted directly on the bathtub’s surrounding walls.

Bathtub Headrest

A bathtub headrest is a cushion or contoured pillow that supports and cradles the user’s head and neck while in the tub.

Headrests come in various styles and forms; manufacturers can create them from different materials, including silicone, rubber, and foam.

A bathtub headrest’s style can range from basic padding to more intricate curves that fit the user’s head and neck. While some headrests are made to be used independently, others may be fastened to the bathtub.

Tile or Surrounding

The tiled area around a bathtub includes wall and floor coverings that enclose it. You can create these covers using engineered materials such as acrylic or fiberglass, natural stone, or ceramic tile.

Different tile designs range from simple and easy to elaborate patterns or mosaics.

Apron

A bathtub’s apron is the panel that covers the front of the tub, hiding the plumbing and giving the installation a polished appearance.

Various materials, such as acrylic, fiberglass, and porcelain, can create aprons. The apron’s pattern might include raised or textured designs and can be as straightforward or complex as you choose.

Non-Slip Surface

Textured surfaces or coatings might give the user a firm grip. Even when it is wet, these coatings or surfaces offer traction. Installing non-slip surfaces on the bathtub floor and the adjacent tile or flooring is feasible to improve safety.

Air Bath System

A delightful and therapeutic addition to any bathtub, an air bath system offers the user a calming and revitalizing experience.

In addition to freestanding, drop-in, and alcove bathtub designs, you can place these systems in various configurations. The air bath system pumps warm air into the bathtub through jets, providing a light massage to the skin.

Some air bath systems have extra elements like chromotherapy and aromatherapy, improving the experience’s relaxing and therapeutic effects.

Rim

Manufacturers often construct the bathtub’s rim using porcelain, enamel, acrylic, or fiberglass materials. Supporting the bathtub guarantees that it can sustain the weight of the bather and the water.

The rim is crucial in guiding water toward the drain so it doesn’t overflow onto the bathroom floor.

Flexible Connector

A crucial part of the plumbing system, the Flexible Connector joins the bathtub’s drain to the bathroom’s drainage system. Rubber or PVC are commonly used materials that offer flexibility, durability, and ease of installation and maintenance.

The flexible connector ensures a watertight seal between the bathtub and the drainage system, effectively preventing leaks and water damage.

Trap

The Trap is a plumbing part that performs two essential purposes and is located underneath the bathtub’s drain. A barrier that prevents sewage gases from entering the bathroom is first created by the water it catches.

Additionally, it stops tiny things from clogging the plumbing system by catching them before they can fall down the drain.

Retaining Nut

The drain outlet fastens the flexible connection using a threaded nut called the retaining nut, which prevents it from coming undone under pressure.

It is usually made of brass or stainless steel, which makes it sturdy and corrosion-proof. The retaining nut keeps water from seeping into the drain and is crucial to the bathtub’s plumbing system.

Decorative Panel

The decorative panel, an optional addition, improves the bathtub’s visual appeal and hides any unattractive plumbing fixtures.

Typically, acrylic or fiberglass are used because they are simple to install and maintain. The ornamental panel is available in various hues and designs, allowing homeowners to select one that goes well with their bathroom decor.

Lining

The inside part of the bathtub that touches the water is called the lining. Producers use porcelain, enamel, acrylic, or fiberglass to create them. Durability, stain resistance, and ease of washing are all features of these materials.

The bathtub’s liner keeps water from seeping through and harming the structure. It is a crucial part of the bathtub.

Ultimate Guide on 24 Parts of a Bathtub: Names, Functions & Diagram