All You Need to Know About the P-Trap Under Your Sink

At Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we are experts in plumbing fixture installation, pipe repair, and repiping. Our plumbers have the expertise, experience, and state-of-the-art tools to install, repair, and replace all types of plumbing fixtures. We understand how the P-trap works and what you can do to keep it in top shape. If you're wondering how the P-trap works, this article is for you.

What Does a P-Trap Do?

The P-trap serves two purposes. Firstly, it prevents sewer gases and odors from entering your home. The curved pipe traps water after every use of the sink, thereby creating a water seal that blocks any sewer gases and odors trying to rise from the drain. Without a P-trap, sewer gas and noxious odors coming from the drain pipes can find their way into your home. Every time you use the sink, fresh water flows through the P-trap, flushing out some of the older water and replenishing the water seal. The P-trap is certainly a plumbing marvel that utilizes its unique design to keep your home free from unpleasant sewer smells. It is important to ensure this specialized fitting is in tip-top condition.

The other purpose of the P-trap is to trap debris that flows down the drain, preventing it from clogging the drainpipes further down the line. It collects all sorts of debris, including hair, soap scum, and food scraps that wash down the drain. This keeps the clogs from forming deeper within the pipes. It is much easier to disassemble the P-trap and remove the debris compared to tackling a clog deeply embedded in the drain pipes. 

Just like the other plumbing fixtures installed in your home, the P-trap is not immune to damage or wear and tear. The fitting can deteriorate over time and develop leaks and even complete failure. If the fitting is made from steel, it can be susceptible to corrosion, which can weaken the material and cause leaks. Chemical drain cleaners are another culprit behind P-trap damage and deterioration. If your P-trap is in disrepair, reach out to a nearby plumbing repair service for repairs.

Signs You May Need P-Trap Repair

• Slow drains
• Gurgling sounds when you drain water down the sink
• Visible water under the sink
• Sewer odors inside your home
• Visible signs of corrosion on P-traps made from steel
• Visible cracks or breaks on the P-trap

Let A Professional Plumbing Service Fix Your P-Trap

The qualified plumbers at Mr. Rooter Plumbing are equipped with all the tools they need to disassemble your P-trap and identify the source of the problem. Sometimes, the solution may be as simple as fixing a leak or replacing a worn-out gasket. If the fitting is corroded or the damage is significant, they may have to replace the entire unit. If you're a handy person around your house, you may be able to repair or replace the P-trap. However, if you're not sure about the right steps to follow, leave the job to a trusted plumbing service like Mr. Rooter Plumbing.

How To Keep Your P-Trap in Good Condition

• Regular drain cleaning: Flush your sinks with boiling water every few weeks to flush out any accumulated grease, soap scum, or hair.
• Avoid chemical drain cleaners: They can corrode P-traps made from steel and break down the water seal.
• Be mindful of what goes down the drain: Things like egg shells, coffee grounds, and grease can clog the P-trap and cause problems down the road.
• Prevent dry-out:  If you're going on vacation or leaving your sink unused for a long time, pour a cup of mineral oil down the drain. The oil creates a film on top of the water seal, preventing it from evaporating and allowing sewer gases to enter.

Contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing for Help Today

Mr. Rooter Plumbing is the plumbing service you can count on for P-trap installation, P-trap repair, pipe repair, repiping, and all of your plumbing needs.