A drum trap is illegal because it is neither self cleaning or easy to clean. It also violates the requirement that the interior be a smooth flowing surface.
Full Answer
Why are DRUM Traps not allowed in Florida?
The primary problem with a drum trap is that it is not “self-scouring,” per the requirement of Florida Plumbing Code (FPC-1002.2) and a similar citation in the International Plumbing Code (IPC). The drum shape creates pockets that will trap debris and grow bacteria. Here’s a full list of prohibited traps from FPC-1002.3.
What's wrong with DRUM Traps?
The main problem with drum traps is that they're not self-scouring. A drum trap holds so much water that the water and solids coming in to the trap will not be pulled directly through, which can allow for the accumulation of solids in the bottom of the trap.
Do DRUM Traps still exist in Minnesota?
Many older houses in Minneapolis and Saint Paul have an old style of plumbing trap called a drum trap, which is no longer allowed in Minnesota except in special circumstances. The photo below shows an example of a relatively small drum trap found below the bath tub at a recent home inspection in Hopkins.
Is a drum trap an asset or liability?
The exception, which allows use of a drum trap for situations where a “solids interceptor” is needed, is helpful at a dental office so any crown, filling, or such can be retrieved from the drum if accidentally dropped down the drain. So the lack of a self-scouring property becomes an asset.
Are drum traps allowed?
Drum traps are common in older buildings and homes. Generally they are not allowed in modern plumbing except in special cases.
What is the purpose of a drum trap?
Drum traps were designed to capture debris and prevent sewer gas from entering the home. In theory, homeowner would regularly open the trap and clean it to avoid clogging; however, this rarely happened in practice. Try to clean the drum trap now, and you may find that the cover has corroded and can't be easily removed.
Why are S-traps not allowed?
Back to "S" traps - The reason "S" traps aren't allowed is because they have the potential to suck, or 'siphon', water out of the trap as the water flows down the drain. On a properly installed "P" trap, there is a vent at the same place the drain turns downwards, which breaks the siphon.
Do you need a drum trap?
0:173:09Drum traps: why they suck and what to do about them - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo first off a drum trap is a type of trap at a plumbing fixture that prevents sewer gas fromMoreSo first off a drum trap is a type of trap at a plumbing fixture that prevents sewer gas from entering your home the big difference between the traditional trap.
Do I need a trap for a shower drain?
According to regulations, all shower drains are required to have P-traps. This includes all fixtures connected to a building's main plumbing system. P-traps are curved pipes installed under showers and drains of all kinds.
Do you need a trap for a tub drain?
Does a bathtub need a P-Trap? Yes, you should always install a P-Trap as part of the plumbing of a bathtub or any other wastewater drain system. Failure to include a P-Trap could result in foul smells, harmful gases, and small animals entering through your tub's drain.
Are snappy traps legal?
Yes, Snappy Trap™ model numbers DK-110 and DK-100 are certified by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) to meet the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC). The UPC certification is valid in all US 50 states and Canada.
Why do they call it a pee trap?
A P-trap gets its name because it combines two 90 degree joints with a horizontal overflow pipe and gives the entire unit the shape of the letter “P.” One of the 90 degree joints exits the drain of the sink and then is joined to another which contains a water seal system that allows for water to flow into the overflow ...
Which is better P-trap or S-trap?
P-traps are generally considered by most to be more effective and consistent in maintaining water trap compared to S-traps. Their design makes them less vulnerable to drying out and losing seal: a properly installed P-trap will never lose its water seal.
How do you snake a drum trap?
Put on rubber gloves and remove the debris in the drum trap with your hands. Wrap plumber's tape around the threads on the drum trap's cap. Replace the drum trap's cover and run the tub's hot water for another two minutes to flush out any leftover clog debris.
What is a bell trap?
Bell Traps. A bell trap utilizes a basin with a bell-shaped component that fits over the vertical drain pipe. Combined, these components are designed to maintain a water "plug" that prevents gases from passing around the trap.
What kind of trap do you use for a bathtub?
Use a P-Trap The proper size for both a bathtub drain and trap is 1 1/2 inches in diameter, regardless of the bathtub size. The type of trap used on a tub drain is a p-trap. Because they are the same size, the trap will glue directly onto the PVC drain pipe without the use of adaptors or fittings.