[Brukay]

I am replacing the floor in an upstairs bathroom.
Can I put the P traps for the bath and shower 3 metres away (after a bend) outside where we can get to them for servicing if ever we need to? Instead of directly beneath them where we can never maintain them if they leak or need servicing.
Thanks
Bruce

[massplumber2008]

Hi Bruce...

Good question. I am afraid, however, that by moving the PTRAPS away from directly under the fixtures you will effectively be creating STRAPS and these are illegal and can cause the traps to siphon and allow sewer gasses to enter the home... a definite no-no. Never mind that once you open the floor up you may even find some vent connections that must go after the ptrap (closer to drain) and moving the PTRAPS would certainly be a problem in that case, too!

Keep in mind that if you ever need to service the 2" shower PTRAP you can easily snake the drain (such a large pipe) and you can also use a wet vacuum to clear the ptrap real good if needed... ;)

The tub trap can be made accessible via an access panel and if the vent is above the floor you can install a full size test tee cleanout in the vent at just above the flood level rim of the tub and snake through this cleanout if the tub ever clogs up!

Any more questions just let me know, OK?

Mark

[puffmugs]

Everywhere I know of running traps are illegal, the only exception I know of is in a outside overhang where the trap could freeze.

[Brukay]

Thanks Mark, but does it still create an "S" trap if the 3 metre pipe going outside is followed by a "p" trap then a vent before it goes down to ground.

[massplumber2008]

Yes it does... still creates an ILLEGAL RUNNING TRAP... see image. These traps are illegal because they have a tendency to get siphoned via "capillary action" and allow sewer gasses into the home. I recommend that you stay with code... ;)

Why the concern here? Have you had a few bad experiences with ptraps and getting to them?

Are you replacing the pipes? If so, then you shouldn't have to worry about trap issues for years/decades!

Back to you..

[speedball1]

What nobody's touched on is the 10 foot line from the drain to the trap. You will have 10' of rotting hair and rancid grease to smell out of the drain, Traps are there to prevent that. Install the trap under the drain and stay odor free and within code. Good luck, Tom

[Brukay]

Thanks guys you have all been very helpful I am taking no chances the P traps have been fitted under the shower as you all suggested and up to code. Regards Bruce