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How to Repair a Malfunctioning Drain Trap

The drain trap is an important component of the plumbing system, and when it is not functioning, it needs to be removed and repaired. A drain trap is present in floor drains, sinks or toilets where there is a dip in the drain pipe. Normally the drain trap should always remain filled with water, but if it gets damaged, clogged or old it must be cleaned, repaired or replaced. In order to do that you can follow some guidelines, or, alternatively, call a professional plumber to take care of the malfunction.

A set of tools is necessary to remove the drain trap, used for normal plumbing problems like a screwdriver, wrench, a bucket and an old towel. The drain trap is a delicate plumbing fixture and should be removed with care to prevent damage.

Shut off the main water supply or the water valve which is under the sink, so that you can stop water from flowing through the drain pipe. Use the bucket to allow the surplus water from the drain trap to flow into it, when it is removed. Use the towels around the bucket, so that the surrounding area does not become messy.

The drain pipe is secured with a nut to the bottom of the sink which can be opened with a wrench. Once the nut is loose, the entire pipe can be pulled down, so that it can be removed easily. Once you can reach the trap, unscrew it carefully. Sometimes there may be a clean-out plug at the end of the drain-pipe, which has to be loosened as well. Extract the drain trap, lifting it in a horizontal position.

The drain trap is an important plumbing fixture and should be cleaned and maintained regularly to prevent sewage gas from escaping. Residential plumbing can be looked after by your local plumber and if there are serious problems with drains or traps it is best to get them repaired by professional plumbers who have the expertise and the proper equipment.

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