How to Keep Water in a Floor Trap

Traps below drains prevent sewer gases from entering the home. The simple curved pipes hold water which serves to block any gas. They only work if the level of water in the trap is maintained.

Things You'll Need

• Water bucket
• Mineral oil

Instructions

Keeping Sewer Traps filled

1. Add water to any floor drains in the house every week. A quart or liter of water is usually sufficient but any excess will run down the drain so there is no danger to overfilling the trap. Traps in sinks, tubs or toilets that are used on a regular basis refill each time the fixture is used.

2. Add a little mineral oil to the trap to slow evaporation. Two or three tablespoons are usually sufficient. This is optional, if the routine of adding water on a weekly basis is followed it is not necessary. The mineral oil should be used if the homeowner is away from the home for more than a week.

3. Fill all floor drains. This should include drains in unused showers, tubs or toilets. In homes where extensive remodeling has been done the fixtures may have been removed and plugs inserted in the drain. If the plug fails water would need to be added to the trap to prevent sewer gases from entering the house.

Tips & Warnings

• Sewer gases often have a rotten egg smell, the gasses should be considered hazardous to the health of the occupants.

References

• NDSU Extension