How to Install a Sink Trap
Sink traps, sometimes referred to as p-traps, are designed to keep clogs out of your main drain line. They also provide a way for water to drain while keeping septic gas from coming inside. When your sink clogs or drains slowly it is because there is a blockage inside the trap. If this blockage cannot be removed in normal ways or if the sink trap is corroded and leaking the sink trap should be replaced. Once you know how to install a sink trap you can have yours replaced in an hour. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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1
Place a bucket directly under the sink trap. This will catch any residual water that is trapped in the line.
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2
Use a pipe wrench to loosen the retaining nut that attaches the sink trap to the main line coming from the wall. Once the nut is loosened you can unscrew it by hand.
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3
Use the pipe wrench to unscrew the slip nut attaching the sink trap to the sink tail pipe. Remove the sink trap from under the sink. Remove the old slip nuts from the drain pipe and tail pipe as well.
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4
Take the old sink trap with you to the hardware store. Make sure you purchase a replacement that is the same size and diameter as the old sink trap.
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5
Insert the new slip nuts over the main drain pipe and the tail pipe from the sink.
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Wrap plumber's tape around the threads of the new sink trap on both ends.
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Position the sink trap over the tail pipe and screw the slip nut over the threads. Do not tighten it down at this time.
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Position the other end of the sink trap over the main drain pipe and thread the slip nut onto the sink trap.
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Use a pipe wrench to tighten both slip nuts evenly on the sink trap.
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10
Place the stopper in the sink and fill the sink about half-way with water.
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Release the stopper and check the sink trap for leaks around the slip nuts. Tighten down more if necessary.
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References
- Photo Credit Credit: Kenneth Crawford
