Bottle Trap or P Trap – What Should You Buy?

A bottle trap and a P-trap are two types of plumbing traps used in drainage systems to prevent odours and gases from entering a building.

While they serve the same purpose, there are some differences between the two:

Shape and Design

• P-Trap: A P-trap is named after its shape, which resembles the letter P when viewed sideways. It consists of a horizontal inlet pipe connected to a vertical outlet pipe, forming a U-shaped configuration. This U-shape holds a small amount of water, creating a water seal that prevents sewer gases from flowing back into the building.
• Bottle Trap: A bottle trap is named after its appearance, which resembles an inverted bottle or a teardrop shape. It typically consists of a horizontal inlet pipe that connects to a vertical outlet pipe. The outlet pipe is connected to a sealed container resembling a bottle that holds water to create the trap seal.

Space Requirements

• P-Trap: P-traps require more vertical space compared to bottle traps due to their U-shaped design. They may not be suitable for installations where space is limited, such as under sinks or basins with low clearance.
• Bottle Trap: Bottle traps are known for their compact design, making them suitable for installations where space is limited. They can be installed in tight spaces and are commonly used under bathroom sinks and basins.

Cleaning and Maintenance

• P-Trap: They are relatively easier to clean and maintain compared to bottle traps. They can be easily accessed and cleaned by removing the trap's lower section, which is typically a removable cap or nut.
• 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.

Aesthetics

• P-Trap: They are more commonly used in exposed plumbing systems, such as under bathroom sinks or kitchen sinks, where the plumbing is visible. They are available in various finishes and materials to match the overall aesthetics of the plumbing fixtures.
• Bottle Trap: They are often used in situations where aesthetics are important or in concealed plumbing systems where the plumbing is not visible. They are available in different designs and materials to complement the overall look of the bathroom or kitchen.

Types of Waste Traps

1. Bottle trap: A bottle trap is a type of waste trap that is made up of a bottle-shaped chamber that is filled with water. The chamber is connected to the drainpipe on one end and the outlet pipe on the other end. When wastewater flows into the trap, it displaces the water in the chamber, creating a barrier that prevents sewer gases from entering the building.
2. P trap: A P trap is a type of waste trap that is shaped like the letter P. The trap is made up of a U-shaped pipe that is connected to the drainpipe on one end and the outlet pipe on the other end. When wastewater flows into the trap, it fills the U-shaped pipe, creating a barrier that prevents sewer gases from entering the building.
3. S trap: An S trap is a type of waste trap shaped like the letter S. The trap is made up of an S-shaped pipe connected to the drainpipe on one end and the outlet pipe on the other. When wastewater flows into the trap, it fills the S-shaped pipe, creating a barrier that prevents sewer gases from entering the building.
4. Shallow trap: A shallow trap is a type of waste trap that is shorter than a standard trap. Shallow traps are often used in applications where space is limited, such as in small bathrooms or kitchens.
5. Shallow trap with a connector: A shallow trap with a connector is a type of shallow trap that has a connector pipe that allows it to be connected to a standard drainpipe. Shallow traps with connectors are often used in limited-space applications, but a standard trap is required.
6. Special traps: Special traps are designed for specific applications. For example, there are traps that are designed to prevent grease from entering the sewer system, and there are traps that are designed to prevent sediment from building up in the trap.

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Frequently Asked Questions

• How long does the bottle trap work in the bathroom washbasin?

Ruhe bottle traps come with a 1-year warranty.

• Which brand offers the best bottle trap quality?

Ruhe is the best brand for bathroom fittings like Bottle Traps.