Under the kitchen sink, you’ll see a curved pipe. Check under your bathroom sink and you’ll see the same curved pipe. It’s called P-Trap! A P-Trap is a U-bend in a drain that connects the sink’s drain to a home septic tank or municipal sewer system. How do you know which P-Trap is right for you? To determine the correct size, you must distinguish between bathroom and kitchen sinks. When deciding which material to use, review existing materials and copy them into your replacement P-Trap.

Choose the right P-Trap
You need to determine which P-Trap to replace. Kitchen sink P-Trap comes in a 1-1/2” standard size, while bathroom sinks use a 1-1/4” standard size P-Trap. Traps are also available in different material types such as acrylic, ABS, brass (chrome or natural) and PVC. The current material should be used when replacing the P-Trap.

How to install P-Trap
As we walk through the steps to install the P-Trap, keep in mind that the tail pipe should always be connected to the sink drain and the shorter side of the bend should be connected to the drain. The steps are the same no matter what size or material you use (the connection method may vary slightly depending on the material.)

Step 1 – Remove the old drain
Remove existing components from top to bottom. Pliers may be required to remove the slip nut. There will be some water in the U-bend, so it’s best to keep a bucket and towel nearby.

Step 2 – Install the new spoiler
If you are replacing a kitchen P-Trap, place the tail pipe gasket on the flared end of the tail pipe. Attach it by screwing the slip nut onto the sink filter.
If you are replacing the P-Trap in your bathroom, be aware that the sink drain starts at the end and already has access to the P-Trap. If not, add a rear wing to get the correct length.

Step 3 – Add T-pieces if necessary
In rare cases, you may need to add a T-piece. A sink with two basins uses a waste tee to connect the tailpipe. Connect the fittings with slip washers and nuts. Make sure the bevel of the gasket faces the threaded portion of the pipe. Apply pipe lubricant to the sliding gasket. It will simplify installation and ensure a tight fit.

Step 4 – Attach Trap Arm
Remember to keep the bevel of the washer facing the threaded drain and attach the trap arm to the drain.

Step 5 – Attach Trap Elbow to Trap Arm

The bevel of the gasket should face the elbow. Attach the trap bend to the trap arm. Tighten all nuts with a pair of slip joint pliers.

*Never use Teflon tape on white plastic threads and fittings.

Use your P-Trap
After installing the P-Trap, you can use the sink without any problems. Over time, you will need to maintain your P-Trap to ensure that it performs optimally and that no leaks form. Whether you’re installing a P-Trap over your bathroom or kitchen sink, it’s the plumbing fixture you need.