How to Clean a P‐Trap or U‐Bend

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posted on 7 years ago — updated on 1 second ago

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Is your bathroom sink blocked, clogged, or not draining properly? The usual case is a blocked U-shaped pipe, commonly known as a P-trap. Clearing one of these plumbing fixtures is easy, and you do not have to be an experienced plumber to fix this issue.

Steps

Removing the Pipe

Get a bucket. You will need a bucket because U-shaped pipes usually retain a small amount of water, and need to be emptied. Place the bucket under the U pipe.

Start by unfastening. Unfasten the holders holding the U pipe. Usually you can twist it by hand. If it is shaped of a bolt, you may need a wrench. If it is too difficult to open by hand, use a plumbing wrench to help you. There are usually 2 or 3 fasteners.

Remove the pipe. Water may drip out of the pipe. Do not forget there is water retained inside the pipe. Tip it to empty it

Cleaning the Pipe

Remove solids. Remove hair if there is any.

Scrub it. Usually some remnants from waste water is left. This can include calcium, mold, or scum. Use a flex brush to remove gunky waste.

Snake the hairball. Using a plumbing snake, insert the snake into the drain hole in the sink. Pull out obstructions. It may take a couple of attempts to snake a hairball out.

Re-assembling the Pipe

Attach the pipe. Place the pipe back in place. Remember that the long side faces the sink drain.

Fasten back the pipe. Make sure to fasten tight.

Check for leaks. Do this by turning on the sink to check if drainage is okay. Keep the sink on for 15 seconds. If it leaks, make sure it is fastened right. Is the fastener loose? If that is not the case, you may need plumbing tape. You can purchase plumbing tape at a local hardware store. Use the tape as a gasket.