The humble sink trap is a part of everyday plumbing systems. So, how do you install one beneath your bathroom basin? In this guide, we’ll explain how and why they’re vital to your bathroom plumbing. You’ll also find advice on what you need to do to install a bathroom sink in place for a useful and supportive system.
Table of contents
How to install a bathroom sink drain trap
When installing a bathroom sink trap, you’ll typically find a trap with the essentials for fitting. So, ensure your sink trap comes with the following parts (if not, purchase separately):
- Sink trap main body
- Outlet pipe
- Outlet pipe wall cover
- ‘Top hat’ washer
- Tapered seal
- Silicone sealant
Now onto the fitting!
Step one: Fit the waste to the sink trap
Place the ‘top hat’ washer inside the threaded top flange. This ensures a secure seal when the waste plug is screwed to the sink trap.
Step two: Put the waste pipe attachments together
Fit the tapered seal, tapered end first, into the sink trap’s body. You can now insert the outlet pipe into the sink trap, ensuring the waste outlet pipe is horizontal from the sink trap.
Note: If the length is excessive, you can shorten it as needed.
Step three: Fit the pipe to the mains drain system
Use the pipe cover to conceal connections from view, ensuring it sits flush with the wall. Use silicone sealant if wanting a more secure covering.
Note: The pipe cover has no fixing method due to its flush fit, and it may not be necessary. Use your judgment to choose whether it requires the pipe cover.
When returning the basin and accessories, be careful. Avoid damaging the finishes and fittings, keeping the bathroom furniture clean regularly with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaning chemicals or detergents, as they can cause deterioration.
How to change a plumbing trap
Step one: Turn off the water stops
This prevents anyone from turning on the tap while the trap is being removed. Ensure there is a clear work area and place a bucket under the trap to catch any water.
Step two: Inspect the trap
If there is a nut located on the lowest part of the inverted ‘P’, unscrew it with a pair of pliers. Let the water drain out into the bucket.
Step three: Unscrew the nuts holding the P-trap by hand
Grip the trap tight with one hand and turn each nut counterclockwise until they start to loosen. Unscrew two nuts to remove the trap.
Step four: Remove the P-trap
Push the fixings out of the way, pulling down on the section of the trap connected to the tailpipe. If the trap is still full, place the bucket under the trap opening before you attempt this. Once the end of the trap is free, the other end should pull away from the drainpipe with little effort.
Step five: You can now install your new P-trap using the nuts provided
Once installed, turn the water back on and give it a test. Continue to complete regular maintenance on your drainage system.
What is a sink trap?
The answer also applies to “what is a bottle trap”, as sink traps and bottle traps are the same thing with different names. So, to answer both questions, we’ll be referring to them as sink traps from here on.
Sink traps are an essential part of basin plumbing, attached to the waste plug under the sink. It is used to :
- Help keep your bathroom hygienic.
- Defend against bacteria.
- Prevent harmful gases from rising through the drainage system below the home and entering through the waste.
Many sink traps also come with a removable filter. A useful feature that helps block items from travelling down the drain. Maybe items like rings, earrings or other items that you’ve accidentally found yourself dropping down the sink!
What is a P-trap?
Another style of trap is the plumbing trap. The curved pieces of drainpipe underneath your sink and basin, often referred to as P-traps, do a lot of dirty work. Over time, they crack, leak, become corroded or clog up with years of amassed soap and grease.
This section will explain how to change a plumbing trap. Before we move on, it’s important to remember that when replacing a plumbing trap, you should use the same type of trap you remove. For example, use plastic for plastic.
Need more plumbing supplies? Explore our range at Clickbasin. For additional questions regarding other products or projects, check out our other range of help and advice or contact our friendly customer service team for support.
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