What is a sink p-trap?
A p-trap, also known as a sink drain trap, is under the sink. It is the section of the drainpipe that bends and is curved. It gets its name from the bend that looks like the letter P.
It connects the sink drain to the main drain pipe on the wall. Its function is to drain the water effectively.
The P-trap is important as it keeps a small amount of water at the bottom of the sink trap, and this works as a seal to eliminate sewer gases from seeping out of the sink. Check out what plumbing vents are and how it removes sewer gases. The trap can be made from copper, PVC, brass or chrome.
The components of a p-trap are connected with slip fittings that are easy to assemble and take apart.
Need a Plumbing Service?
You may need to disassemble a p-trap if you are experiencing a clog in your sink that affects your pipe.
Parts of a Drain P-Trap
Your sink P trap comes in two parts. These are called the trap bend and the waste arm.
Trap Bend- This component is shaped like a ’U’. One end is connected to the trap arm, and the other is to the tailpiece.
Waste Arm- This is also known as a trap arm or S-Bend. The trap arm is connected to the trap bend and the main drain on the other end.
Tools and Equipment Needed
You may have to replace the trap when replacing the sink, significantly when the new sink configuration differs from the existing one.
To replace P-Trap, a kit is needed, which can be purchased from any large homemaker and hardware store. Ensure that all parts in the kit match your current sink P trap diameters and configurations. For instance, if you have a double sink, ensure you have purchased the ideal equipment for a double kitchen sink.
It would be best if you had these tools and equipment readily available.
- Slip-joint type pliers
- Bucket
- P-Trap kit
- PVC cutter or hacksaw
How do you replace a P trap under a sink?
Step 1
Put your bucket under the trap to catch any water spillage. Next, you will use your pliers to loosen the nuts that hold the trap bend.
Slide off the bend. If you are having trouble, slightly wiggle it off until you have removed it.
You will then remove the nut holding the trap arm in place. Slide off the trap arm from the opening of the drain. Keep all parts aside.
Step 2
Take your new trap kit and lay out all the parts. You will slide the new slip nut over the trap arm, ending with the curve. On the straight end of the peninsula, place the other slip nut. Make sure the open threads of the buts are facing outwards.
The next step is to slide the straight end of the trap arm into the drain opening. A tip is to ensure it fits correctly: Allow space so the trap arm can slide inward and outward through the drainage opening.
Slide the nut over the threaded ending of the drain opening. Keep some room available in case you need to make some adjustments.
Step 3
Slide the nut over the tailpiece that is over the sink drain. Place the washer on top. The bevelled edge should be facing down. The next step is to slide the drain trap bend over the tailpiece. It would be best to position the bend so that the opposite end takes in the curved part of the arm trap.
Make the necessary adjustments and tighten the slip nuts on the tailpiece and the trap bend.
If the new trap arm is extended, you can cut to size using your hacksaw or PVC cutter. Check your p-trap kit for different trap arm sizes already available.
Step 4
Once you have completed these steps, all trap fittings are in place. Start by tightening the slip nuts using your hand, and give another turn using your pliers. Do not over-tighten; doing so can crack or burst your pipe or damage nuts and bolts. It can also make it difficult to remove if you need to later on.
Your last process should be testing and checking for any leaks. Open your bathroom sink taps. The water must be on total volume running on your sink faucet. Inspect all fittings around the sink. If you notice a leak or any drips, you may need to adjust or tighten the nuts or bolts.
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