How to Unblock a Sink Trap

Understanding Sink Traps (U-Bends):
Sink traps (often referred to as U-bends) are essential for preventing foul drain odours from entering your home. They create a water seal that blocks smells.
All waste water outlets, including sinks, basins, and toilets, have traps.

Types of Traps:
• P-traps: The most common type, with a horizontal outlet.
• S-traps: With a vertical outlet.
• Bottle traps: Compact traps used in exposed areas, but more prone to blockages.
Bath traps often incorporate overflow connections.

How Traps Work:
The U-shaped design retains a small amount of water, isolation each side of the trap from the other.

Clearing a Blocked Trap:
Modern plastic traps can be disassembled for cleaning.
• Carefully unscrew the cap nuts to remove the trap.
• Clear any debris from the trap and the waste pipe.
• Reassemble the trap, ensuring a tight seal.
Tip: don’t forget the rubber seal and usually coloured washer that fits on top on reassembly

Preventing Blocked Traps:
Avoid putting grease, food scraps, or hair down the drain and regularly flush drains with hot water.