An overflow drain is an extra opening toward the top of a bathtub or sink that collects excess water and diverts it to the plumbing pipes. It minimizes the chance of flooding, and you may have heard of this bathtub part referred to as a wastewater drain.

Overflow drains are secondary drains that work in tandem with primary drains to prevent an overflow or spillage of liquid out of some type of receptacle. Their main function is to ensure that damage is not caused to the area surrounding the receptacle as a result of the liquid reaching the rim of the container and flowing into the area unchecked.

An overflow drain is an opening that helps prevent flooding in sinks and tubs by directing excess water to the drain pipe when it reaches a certain level. Traditional and integral overflow drains serve the same purpose but have different designs. Clogs and leaks affect overflow drains. What Is an Overflow Drain?

Over-flow drains are an emergency feature that is intended to prevent flood damage from being caused to the surrounding area in the bathroom. In case you forget and leave the water running, the over-flow drain will allow water to drain.