Are bottle P-traps illegal?

Author: Dr. Gust Lemke  |  Last update: Friday, December 26, 2025

Bottle Traps Are Great for Tight Spaces They look similar to a chrome baby's bottle, and on the inside, there is a pipe that allows drain water to flow by without draining completely. It's this half-filled pipe that blocks the gasses from passing through. There's one problem: They're illegal.

Why are S traps not allowed anymore?

The S-Trap's Major Flaw

The “s” design could cause a water siphon, removing the water built up in the curve, opening the seal, and allowing sewer gas to pass through. This flaw is whys-traps are no longer allowed in plumbing code and should be replaced if you have one.

Are bottle traps OK?

Every trap has arguments for why it is the best, but overall, yes Bottle Traps are the most convenient. A Bottle Trap takes up considerably less space than the alternative P-Traps and S-Traps, however Bottle Traps and S-Traps fulfill different needs.

Can you use a bottle trap instead of a P-trap?

Not at all, you can use a bottle trap if you wish. They are more restricted to flow through than an S or P trap and as such can catch more gunk and clog up more quickly but if you're happy knowing that you may need to clear it more regularly, then no reason not to use them.

Are S-traps illegal in the US?

The “S” trap is prohibited under the Uniform Plumbing Code throughout the United States.

Understanding Bottle Traps | Ask This Old House

Are bottle traps legal?

Bottle Traps Are Great for Tight Spaces

It's this half-filled pipe that blocks the gasses from passing through. There's one problem: They're illegal.

What states are booby traps illegal?

It is illegal to place, maintain, or possess a booby trap in California (PC 20110). A booby trap is a concealed or camouflaged device designed to cause great bodily injury when triggered by an action of any unsuspecting person coming across the device.

What are the disadvantages of bottle traps?

Bottle Trap: They are generally more difficult to clean and maintain. Due to their sealed container design, they may require disassembly for proper cleaning, and reassembling them correctly can be a bit more challenging.

Is a P-trap better than an S trap?

The P-trap is now the standard since the S-trap was deemed ineffective and prohibited in new construction under the Universal Plumbing Code. The S-trap was found to be prone to siphoning and drying out, which leaves the apparatus ineffective.

Why are drum traps illegal?

One of the primary issues is that they are prone to becoming clogged with hair, soap, and other debris. Because of their design, drum traps are more challenging to clean than other types of traps, and their location can make it challenging to access the trap for cleaning.

Do Bottle traps clog?

Bottle traps usually get blocked with debris that goes down the sink, such as food waste. Fortunately, they're easy to unblock and you can get your sink back to its usual state in no time.

Can you trap a mouse in a bottle?

Hang it using the loop, ensuring it's stable and won't easily fall or tip over. Check the trap regularly, and when a mouse enters the bottle to reach the bait, it will have difficulty finding its way out. Once you've caught a mouse, carefully release it back into the wild at a safe distance from your home.

What does a shower p trap look like?

P-traps, named after their shape, contain a u-shaped bend that filters wastewater as it enters a plumbing system. The trap is connected to a sink, bathtub, and shower with a J-bend on one end and exits into your drainage system. The J-bend is the section of the p-trap that resembles the letter J.

Is it okay to have 2 P-traps?

In all of these cases, water has to pass through two separate traps, called a double trap. But don't confuse this with two separate traps, which is fine. Of course, those corrugated things in the photo above aren't proper, but the configuration is correct. Plumbing codes expressly prohibit the use of double traps.

What traps are prohibited in plumbing?

Full “S” traps, bell traps, drum traps, crown-vented traps, and running traps are prohibited. Fixtures shall not be double- trapped.

What is a gully trap?

A Gully Trap is a drainage pipe extension in the form of a basin that allows waste water to safely enter the sewage system with a seal that traps dangerous gases and prevents the gases from escaping.

What is a J-trap?

This type of trap is typically used in scenarios where the fixture is located away from the wall, such as in freestanding pedestal sinks. The J trap's vertical outlet is designed to accommodate the extra distance required to connect to the drainage system.

What can I use instead of a P-trap?

SWVs such as HepVO offer an effective and efficient alternative to traditional p-traps: versatile installation, no foul odors, no gurgling noises, no limescale, hygienic, space-saving, easy flow, improves venting to negative pressure, performs under back pressures, effective in hot and cold conditions, and copes with ...

What are the disadvantages of P-traps?

Disadvantages of P-Traps

One common issue is that the water seal can be protected if properly maintained or if there are blockages in the drainpipe. This can lead to the escape of sewer gases and unpleasant odors. The trap is regularly inspected and cleaned to ensure its proper functioning.

Does a bottle trap stop smelling?

One of the primary purposes of a bottle trap create a water seal that acts as a barrier, preventing foul odours and gases from the sewer system from entering the living or bathroom space.

Why use a bottle trap instead of AP trap?

Bottle Trap

Compared to other sink trap types, they're compact and take up much less space making them ideal for ensuite bathrooms and cloakrooms. If your sink has exposed pipework, plastic traps can look a little unsightly.

Can bottle traps fail?

Water traps are a popular choice due to their low cost and familiarity among plumbers, however, they do have some disadvantages, especially in certain applications. Water traps can fall into disrepair and become ineffective without regular maintenance, which can result in unhygienic environments.

What states have banned trapping?

Only eight states have enacted bans or significant restrictions on leghold traps: Florida, Rhode Island, New Jersey, Arizona, Colorado, Massachusetts, California and Washington.

Are booby traps banned?

Booby-traps also include manually-emplaced devices designed to kill, injure or damage and which are actuated by remote control or automatically after a lapse of time. Their use is prohibited by precise rules.

Are boobie traps legal in Texas?

The general rule is controlled by Texas Penal Code Sec. 9.44 Use of Device to Protect Property. Its the booby trap provision of the Texas Penal Code. It basically says that YES you may have a device to protect land or tangible movable property but with a few conditions.

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