Dropped Screw in Tub Overflow Pipe

Hello, I have a question concerning bathtub overflow pipes in a two story home. Here is my scenario: Water was draining slowly in my tub and backing up so I removed the normal drain cover and the overflow's trip lever plate + linkage. I removed the clog easily and moved on to replace the drain plates.

The overflow plate was where I had an issue. The plate is as old as the house I think, about 30-40 years. I was having trouble getting one of the two screws to mate with the hole in the pipe so I was fiddling with it. I finally thought I had it and I pressed too hard and the screw went right through the brittle chrome and fell down the overflow pipe.

I took a tiny camera I have and could see where the screw fell in the pipe. I couldnt reach it with any tools I had on hand so I ordered a flexible grabber tool, but by the time the tool got to me the screw fell even deeper to where I can no longer see it.

Finally, my question: how much of a problem is it that a screw fell down my bathtub's overflow pipe on the second floor? Can I ignore it or should I be trying to open a pipe somehwere and find it?

And let's say I did want to do that, should I be looking in the pipes in the ceiling directly underneath the tub? Not saying I want to go cutting my cieling open, I just want and idea of where the screw would be. Thank you.

Is there a hatch in the wall behind the tub? If so, you may be able to take the trap apart since that is where I would guess the screw is located.

If not, you might want to try a toilet auger to see if you can snag it.

Good morning Jeff,

No unfortunately no hatches or wall panels. I have an auger I can try but it seems it would be difficult to pick up the screw with the shape of the auger head and then the screw not being magnetic (if I were to attach a magnet to the auger).

What I would like to know is, can I just leave that screw down there, whereever it fell? If I'm careful to make sure nothing goes down the drain like hair or anything else, will I be okay?

Thanks,

I am not an expert. My plumbing experience is because I do plumbing at my rental properties.

That being said, if the screw got past your trap, I would think it would be fine since it would be in 4 inch pipe. If it is not past your trap, and if hair and soap scum, etc get caught on it, that might make it easier to get with an auger.

I would suggest doing nothing, and see what happens.

The screw is likely brass and not magnetic. But you must have the other screw to verify that.

I'd say don't worry about.