Whirlpool tub leaks ONLY while draining...IDEAS?

[jbtracy4]

I have a whirlpool tub (jets, etc.) that is only two years old and has only been used 3 to 4 times. The last time it was used the tub leaked onto the first floor ceiling and wall.

I have determined through trial and error that the leaking only occurs while the tub is draining. I ran the water without using the stopper and nothing happened. So it seems that the water pressure from the draining tub is the factor causing the leak.

There is no access to the draining plumbing only to motor of the whirlpool. The drain sits in the middle of the tub.

I would appreciate anyones wisdom as to what may be causing this and approaches to repairing said leak. Sincerely!

 

[Geniescience]

your diagnosis is good

the installer has to open the space where the overflow and drain are in order to fix this. You can fix this too.

You have accurately determined when the leak occurs. No matter how it is described using plumbing terms (shoe, drain overflow), you'll still need to fix it with access to the plumbing.

david

 

[Sponsor]

 

[jbtracy4]

There was also building debris in the stopper. Such as Caulking, Dry Wall bits, and lumber chips. Could this be contributing to the leak? What would be the actual cause now that I have determined when the leak occurs?

 

[Jadnashua]

They could...by slowing the drain water, the levels get higher. If things aren't sealed properly, that extra height could allow water to leak. The seal keeping the water in the tub (the stopper) is working.

 

[Geniescience]

leak stopper product

i have seen a product, but never used it, and never seen anyone writing about it here, but it mmight, just might be a temporary fix .... it is called leak stopper or something like that...

david