[tamivn]

My tub is leaking and soaking the carpet that's up against it. We know it's the tub because when we don't use it the carpet dries. A plumber came out and charged me a lot of money to do a leak detection because he said my pressure was dropping. After that was finished he told me I didn't have a leak and that the problem was the drain. BUT the whole tub would have to come out (it's in a century cast surround). He said he could see the water pouring out when it was draining. Today I watched it drain and saw no water pouring out. This is a spa tub. Along with this, when I turn my tub on you can hear the water coming but it takes about two to three seconds before it comes out. This started happening the same time I started having wet carpet. The plumber didn't address this at all.

To save money, my husband is going to take the tub out himself to get at the drain. Before we do this, we wanted to ask if any of this sounds familiar. OUr contractor told us not to rip out the tub because he thinks the plumber is wrong. But I can't afford another plumber to come out. I don't know what to do and don't know anything about plumbing. Is there a way that my husband and I can check ourselves for damage? If we do, how do we take a tub out? Can you help with these questions?

[Milo Dolezal]

You should have service access door someplace around the tub. If you don't than put one in. Cost $15.00 at Home Depot. You will be able to see under the tub and see where is the leak coming from.

[speedball1]

Milo's correct. In my area a service panel's installed directly behind the tub waste and trap. This may be in a closet or even out in the hall. If it's not there cut one in and check for moisture. Let us know what you find. Good luck, Tom