Types of Plumbing Traps

Types of Plumbing Traps – An Essential Guide

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Plumbing traps are an important part of any plumbing system, designed to prevent sewer gases from entering buildings while allowing waste to pass through. Here, we’ll explore the various types of plumbing traps, their uses, and their unique features.



  1. P-Trap
    The P-trap is the most common type of plumbing trap found in residential and commercial properties. Shaped like the letter “P,” this trap is typically installed under sinks, bathtubs, and showers. It retains water to create a seal that prevents sewer gases from entering your home. P-traps are known for their reliability and ease of maintenance.
  2. S-Trap
    Similar to the P-trap, the S-trap is shaped like the letter “S” and serves the same purpose of preventing sewer gases from entering your home. However, S-traps are primarily used in floor-mounted fixtures, such as toilets and bidets. They are less common today due to potential siphonage issues.
  3. Bottle Trap
    The bottle trap is a unique type of trap typically used in bathroom sinks and basins with exposed pipework. It resembles the shape of a bottle and is an excellent choice for modern bathrooms where aesthetics are a priority. The sleek design makes it ideal for small spaces.
  4. Drum Trap
    Drum traps are barrel-shaped and were once popular in older homes. They are typically found in bathtubs, showers, and sometimes sinks. Drum traps can be challenging to maintain, and their usage has decreased over time due to the availability of more efficient alternatives.
  5. Floor Trap (Nahni Trap)
    Floor traps, also known as Nahni traps, are installed in the floor to collect wastewater from sinks, washbasins, and other fixtures. They are essential in preventing foul odors from escaping into living spaces.
  6. Gully Trap
    Gully traps are constructed outside the building to collect wastewater from kitchens, bathrooms, and other fixtures. They are crucial in preventing sewer gases from entering the building through external drains.
  7. Intercepting Trap
    Intercepting traps are installed at the junction of the house drain and the public sewer. They are designed to prevent the entry of sewer gases from the public sewer into the house drain.
  8. Grease Trap
    Grease traps are specifically designed for commercial kitchens and restaurants to prevent fats, oils, and grease (FOG) from entering the sewer system. They are essential in maintaining the efficiency of the plumbing system in commercial settings.
  9. HepvO Trap
    The HepvO trap is a relatively new plumbing trap that uses a self-sealing valve instead of water to prevent sewer gases from entering your home. This trap is ideal for areas where the water seal in traditional traps may be prone to evaporation, such as RVs and boats.

Conclusion:

Knowledge of different types of plumbing traps and their uses is essential for designing and maintaining a functional and efficient plumbing system. Whether you’re a homeowner or a professional plumber, knowing which trap to use in various situations can help prevent common plumbing issues and ensure a safe and hygienic environment.

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