If you are doing any type of plumbing or you are experiencing plumbing issues, you will quickly become very familiar with a P-trap.
This plumbing fixture is shaped with a bending pipe path. In most homes, there is a P-trap installed under the sinks in the bathroom and kitchens. It traps debris that has drained from the sink and prevents it from forming a clog deep within the plumbing system. It also retains fluid to prevent sewer gases from entering buildings while allowing waste to pass through. P-traps can be made of either PVC or metal.
P-traps combine two 90-degree joints with a horizontal overflow pipe that forms a device in the shape of a “P”. One joint exits the sink’s drain and connects to the other, which has a water seal system allowing water to drain into the overflow pipe and not back toward the sink.
When choosing the type of P-trap you would like to install, make sure that it meets the standard of the building code of the state/city where your home or business is located. California code does state that there are certain restrictions and cautions on using this style of trap.
The first rule restricts installing more than three utility appliances onto one P-trap. The second rule is that any P-trap that is installed on a plumbing line that will infrequently be used should have a trap primer applied. A trap primer helps to keep the seal in place that will prevent the passage of sewer gas. In frequently used P-traps or ones in very dry climates risk having the water evaporate within that is necessary for the trap to work.
West Coast Sanitation Can Help
If you are having problems with your septic system, don’t wait to take action. Call us at (951) 780-5922 right away. We have professionals ready to answer your questions and get your system working properly again.