Drum traps were once commonly used in plumbing systems to prevent large objects from entering the drain and to prevent gas from entering the home. They resemble a smaller version of a steel drum and have a sizable access plug at the top. Although P-traps have largely replaced drum traps, they can still be used in certain situations and are ideal for tight spaces. Clearing clogs from drum traps is a simple process and they can still be purchased for use in repairing older systems or building new ones.
A drum trap is an older component that was once commonly used in plumbing systems. In essence, drum traps are devices that help keep larger, heavier items from entering the drain and getting into the plumbing itself. Over the years, a similar device known as a hydraulic trap, or P-trap, has largely replaced the older drum trap, although there are still some situations where the older design is still a good option.
In design, drum traps bear a striking resemblance to a smaller version of a steel drum. The unique construction of these traps makes them ideal for installation where appliances are close to the floor. A sizable access plug is located at the top of the device, while an inlet at the base connects to the piping system. Once installed, the access plug is the only part of the trap likely to be visible.
Drum traps actually perform two important functions. First, traps prevent large objects from making their way into water pipes and creating obstacles. In the event that something works inside the trap itself, it is simple to open the access plug and remove it. For many years, drum traps have been standard equipment on bathtubs, toilet sinks and kitchen sinks.
A second function of drum traps is to prevent gas from entering the home. The design of the traps causes the body of the devices to fill with water from the inlet located where the traps connect to the water pipes. The presence of water creates an effective barrier which prevents fumes from entering the house through the plumbing system, thus minimizing the health risks for the inhabitants of the house.
Clearing clogs or other obstacles from drum traps is a relatively simple process. By opening the access plug, you can use a standard pipe cleaner or some other form of snake tool and remove collections of hair or any objects that may have found their way into the traps. Although P-traps are routinely installed today, drum traps do not need to be replaced as long as they are functioning properly.
In some cases, homeowners can actually refer drum trap use to new P-traps. This can be true when undertaking the restoration of an older home and there is a desire to be as true to the period in which the home was built as possible. Some just like the way traps work so well in tight spaces, especially when the plumbing is close to the floor. While not as widely available as it was in decades past, new drum traps can still be purchased for use in repairing older systems, as well as part of building new systems.
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