Every homeowner has experienced such a plumbing issue as a clogged drain at one time or another. Sometimes, the fix might be as simple as plugging the drain. However, other times, you may need to clean or replace the drain trap.
In some cases, the issue may be more serious and drain repair by a professional plumber may be required. In this article, we shall provide advice on how to clean or replace the drain tap in your bathroom or kitchen sink.
What Is a Drain Trap?
The drain trap is located beneath the sink or bathroom drain pipe. It allows the drainage system to function properly. Also, the curved section of the p-trap, as it is also called, maintains a water plug to seal the house drain pipe against harmful sewer gases.
It is imperative that every drain trap in your home is in proper working order. If you notice that the drainage flow is slower than usual or has stopped, there could be an issue. You should regularly inspect your drain trap for any damage or malfunction.
P-traps are either composed of PVC pipe or steel. However, they may also be made of a variety of other materials. Some of these may be prohibited by building or provincial codes, so it is best to ensure that you are only using the correct P-trap for the area in which you reside. You should be able to purchase a P-trap at a local DIY, hardware, or plumbing supply store.
How to Clean and/or Replace a Drain Trap
Materials Needed:
- Bucket
- Drain Trap Replacement or Parts
- Plumbers Tape (or Joint Compound)
- Screwdriver
- Wrench
Step 1: If the p-trap is designed with a cleanout plug (found on the bottom of the curved part), first, remove it carefully with a wrench. Then, drain the water into the bucket. If it is not designed as such, unscrew the slip nuts so that they are not in your way.
Step 2: If it is a swivel type of drain pipe, you will be able to easily remove the curved part. Keep it upright and pour the water into the bucket. However, if it is fixed, carefully remove the tailpiece slip nut via the drain flange as well as the one at the top of the trap. Place the tailpiece into the p-trap, twisting it clockwise until the water drains into the bucket. Remove the tailpiece and unscrew the p-trap from the drainpipe.
If a Кeplacement is Тeeded:
Step 1: Purchase whatever parts are needed for replacement including the correct size of the drain trap, drain extension, tailpiece, and any other required fittings.
Step 2: In the appropriate order, replace the purchased parts. Ensure that all the compression seals, large washers, and slip nuts are properly lined up. Using slip nuts, loosely couple the parts together. Then make the final adjustments before tightening them snugly. You may seal the trap with plumber’s compound or joint tape if you wish.
Step 3: Test the trap immediately for leaks by running water. This will also fill the trap with the proper amount of water to protect it from sewer gases.
Should you have any questions regarding how to install drain traps, do not hesitate to call DrainCom. Our expert plumbers can assist you with all of your plumbing issues.
