Possible breakdown of the siphon and its replacement

Waste water disposal is one of the most important systems in a modern apartment. The main sanitary element is a siphon, which not only participates in the connection of the sink with the sewer pipes, but also prevents the penetration of unpleasant odors and sewer "odors" into the living space. The comfort and convenience of staying in any living space directly depends on the quality of this device and the method of its installation.

The siphon is a sanitary fixture that is installed under the sink in the bathroom and in the kitchen and creates an air lock. The main element of this device is a curved pipe in which used water is accumulated. It is the dirty liquid that is the barrier that prevents the poisonous smell of the sewer from spreading in the apartment.

Depending on the material of manufacture, the odor trap is of two types:

• plastic;
• metal.

Siphons with hard and soft fixation can be distinguished according to the method of connection with the water supply system.

The following siphons can be found on the shelves of the specialized departments.

• Pipe. It is an economical type of device that is used for highly polluted water and has a short operating period. Low clogging. Manufacturing material - plastic and iron.
• Bottled. A modern type of device that has a container with a tube and a special side opening. The mechanism of operation is the flow of water through the tube down to the bottom of the siphon, followed by its rise and pouring out of the drain hole.
• Hidden. An innovative development that allows the siphon to be installed at a distance from the sink using a special outlet.

At the first detection of malfunctions, it is strictly forbidden to use the sink for its intended purpose, and the collection of liquid should be carried out in additional containers and bowls.

To eliminate various problems related to the siphon, you can use two methods:

• independent solution to the problem;
• call of an experienced specialist (plumber).

If the problem is a decrease in the permeability of water flows, experts recommend mechanical cleaning of the device. To remove the remnants of dirt and food waste, it is necessary to unscrew the fastening of the corrugated adapter, having previously substituted a technical container. To remove the pipe, turn the nut counterclockwise. After dismantling the siphon, detach the lower round cover. All parts should be cleaned of dirt and rinsed with clean running water.

The first step in solving the problem is to close the water supply valve and find out the cause of the breakdown.Most manufacturers produce plastic siphons that even inexperienced craftsmen can quickly remove, disassemble and replace on their own.

To determine exactly where the siphon is leaking, you need to perform the following manipulations:

1. cleaning the sink;
2. pouring into the drain hole of special means to reduce the amount of grease and other types of pollution;
3. establishing a container for a siphon;
4. removal of water using a plunger;
5. closing the drain hole with a special plug;
6. a set of water in the sink;
7. quick discharge of liquid into a siphon.

Plumbing specialists identify three causes of breakdown:

• the presence of a crack and other mechanical damage;
• wear of gaskets and lack of tightness;
• low density of fixation of parts.

To eliminate cracks and minor damage, you can use a special epoxy adhesive and sealant. The adhesive must be applied to the plastic surface in several layers. The universal cold welding should only be used on a clean, dry and sanded surface. Drying time for cold welding is two hours. When using epoxy resins, it is necessary to use personal protective equipment that will protect the skin and respiratory tract from poisonous and toxic fumes.

To increase the tightness, replace the worn out gaskets. The surface of new rubber parts must be lubricated with petroleum jelly. If there is no way to quickly purchase gaskets, experts recommend covering the old parts with silicone and putting them in place. This method will help to briefly solve the problem and repair the structure. It is possible to increase the density of the connection of plumbing parts, the fixation of which weakens during operation, using tow and silicone tape.

The presence of an unpleasant smell of sewage in an apartment for a long period is another sign of a malfunctioning water seal. Consider the reasons for the penetration of sewer gases through the device and ways to eliminate them:

• incorrect installation - installation of the outlet pipe below the liquid level by 4 cm;
• drying out of the water plug - periodically filling the system with water or creating an oil film to slow down the evaporation of liquid in the knee;
• stretching and sagging of the corrugated part - correct installation of the product and securing it with a special clamp;
• no bending for the water seal - additional bending of the pipe bend and its reliable fixation in this position;
• the presence of rotting food waste - chemical and mechanical cleaning.

If it is impossible to eliminate the breakdown, and the siphon needs to be changed, experts recommend knowing and using the rules for installing and dismantling the device.

Dismantling stages:

1. disassembling the deformed device;
2. disconnecting the siphon and adjacent pipes from the sewer;
3. removal of dirt and residues of rubber parts.

Before starting the installation of a new device, it is imperative to check the presence of all components in the purchased kit.

The set contains:

• outlet branch pipe;
• plastic nuts;
• inlet and drain gaskets;
• stainless steel clamping screw;
• tapered rubber cuff;
• drain plate;
• curved tube or special flask;
• rubber overhead stopper.

Installation steps:

1. preliminary assembly of the structure;
2. overflow connection with a bath;
3. tight fixation of all elements and the simultaneous use of sealing parts;
4. installation of the main drain and branch pipe;
5. siphon installation.

For the period of operation of the plastic part influences not only the quality of the product and the reliability of installation, but also the method of operation, as well as a set of preventive measures:

• regular use of special cleaning products;
• using a net to collect food waste and various garbage;
• mechanical cleaning and removal of dirt and fat deposits.

The most effective chemicals that prevent siphon clogging are the following.

• "Mole", "Mister Muscle" - universal products that must be poured into the drain hole and left for 30 minutes. After this period, rinse the siphon with plenty of running water.
• Soda and vinegar - an economical method of cleaning pipes, for which you need to pour the same amount of vinegar, soda into the drain and leave for 60 minutes, and then rinse with plenty of hot water.
• Salt and soda - an alternative method, which involves combining these components, pouring them into the hole in the sink and adding a small amount of boiling water. After 10 hours, rinse the structure with warm water.

In order to prevent the accumulation of garbage, specialists recommend using the following tools regularly.

• Ventuz - a small device, in the process of pressing which pressure is created, destroying the integrity of the dirty plug. The mechanism of action is a sharp press of the tool over the drain hole in the sink with warm water.
• Cable - plumbing fixture, which has an elastic shaft, the length of which can reach 3 meters. This device will help to remove all types of blockages. The disadvantage is the possible damage to the pipes.
• Hydraulic pump - an innovative device that creates a powerful stream of water to quickly remove dirt. The mechanism of action is repeated switching on of the device near the drain.

When buying a device, you must take into account the fact that a siphon for a kitchen cannot be installed in a bathroom. The wrong choice of plumbing parts will cause difficulties in using the drainage system.

Signs of a quality siphon:

• availability of certificates and permits;
• strict compliance with the type of sink and its individual characteristics;
• simplicity of design;
• availability of a complete set of parts;
• production material - plastic, stainless steel and brass;
• reasonable and adequate price;
• lack of mechanical damage and the presence of a smooth surface;
• the presence of high-quality threaded connections.

Modern technologies make it possible to independently cope with any kind of household breakdowns. Repairing and replacing a siphon is a simple process that even inexperienced craftsmen can carry out. Experts recommend not to wait for the complete clogging of the device, the appearance of cracks or an unpleasant odor. If the structure leaks, appropriate measures must be taken immediately. Carrying out preventive measures will help to avoid problem moments and significantly save financial costs for purchasing a new siphon.

For information on how to independently install and replace the siphon in the kitchen, see the next video.