Traps

A plumbing trap is a curved pipe that is located underneath a plumbing fixture. A trap prevents the entry of odors into a building and also catches items that may cause major clogs or blockages if allowed to travel further into the drainage system.

A plumbing trap is simple, yet extremely effective. The design allows water to drain through it, but the curve of the pipe keeps a small amount of water in it at all times. The water that remains in the curve of the pipe forms a barrier that prevents unpleasant fumes produced by a septic or sewer system from entering a building. The curve design is also what allows the trap to catch items dropped into a drain, such as jewelry, before it is completely drained away.