Goofy P-trap

[Gunnar Alquist]

So, this looks goofy, but I can't tell if it's wrong. Can someone comment?

[Jerry Peck]

It is effectively an S- trap.

After the P-trap, it should slope just very slightly to the vent.

The easy solution, if there is space (I can't tell from the photo), would be to use a tailpiece extension to lower the trap to where the wall bend piece at the outlet of the trap goes straight into that lower piece (The trap arm).

But it is quite likely that the trap arm is to close to the bottom of the cabinet for the trap to have enough space (height).

Trying to 'measure' using what's shown in the photo causes me to think there is enough space for the trap to be lowered and work ... but maybe not.

[Gunnar Alquist]

Hi Jerry,

Thank you for the response.

Yes, there is room for proper p-trap installation. I feel silly having asked this question. I was really beat yesterday and kept thinking "that can't be right, but why?" So, I took the pic and attempted to write the report. When my eyes closed for the 4th time, I decided to pack it in. Now that I have had a good night's sleep, it (and several other thing from that inspection) are much clearer.

[Ray Thornburg]

So, this looks goofy, but I can't tell if it's wrong. Can someone comment?

Here is a link to my website which tell all about vents, traps and trap arms.... http://www.summerville-home-inspector.com/content/charleston-home-inspector-discusses-plumbing-traps-arms-and-vents

[Tom Rees]

Great article Ray.