U-shaped sewer line traps are required in every home or business in San Francisco. Today we’ll discuss what they are, where you can find them, and the common signs that the time has come to replace them.
What is a House Trap?
This piece of U-shaped plumbing does exactly what the name implies – waste water remains in the base of the U at all times, trapping sewer gasses from backing back up into the house. When you flush the toilet, take a shower, or do the laundry, waste water pushes the waste through the U and into the city sewer connection.
Where can I find the sewer line trap in my house?
House traps are required in every San Francisco sewer system. House traps are typically located underground, usually within a foot or two of the curb. In most cases, you can access a house trap by removing the steel sidewalk grate. This access helps plumbers quickly unclog sewer lines right at the source.
What a great invention! What could possibly go wrong?
As with most pipes, these fixtures are bound to corrode and eventually break. Sludge from buildup over the years can also cause it to clog. Should this fixture fail, sewer line gasses and waste can back up into the house.
If your house has two clean out caps – be sure to open the OUTSIDE one first. This will prevent sewage from backflowing into the home. Open the cap and use an auger (snake) to loosen debris. Flush with water. Don’t want to do this? Ace Plumbing & Rooter has you covered. We can schedule preventative maintenance and/or be there the moment you suspect a clog. We can also visually inspect your house trap and recommend repairs or replacement as needed.
What are the common signs of a sewer line clog?
Trust your senses.
- If you HEAR slow gurgling when you flush the toilet
- If you SEE water draining slowly from sinks, showers, toilets and tubs
- If you SMELL sewer line gas or the smell of waste water doesn’t dissipate after you flush and clean your toilet
- If you FEEL moisture along drywall or flooring anywhere near plumbing lines
If my Sewer Line Trap needs to be replaced, what are my options?
Ace Plumbing and Rooter will visually inspect your sewer line before discussing your likely options.
- Replacing the corroded unit with a brand new one made of American Cast Iron – this well maintained replacement will last decades
- Replacing the sewer line with modern venting
- Either Options 1 or 2 with trenchless sewer line replacement or a complete sewer line replacement based upon the healthy of the pipes all the way to the city connection
