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Author:
MattyJones (MO)
Hi there. I recently purchased an old home,built in 1917. It apparently has what the plumber referred to as a “whole house trap.” He explained to me that it wasn’t necessary and it would only cause problems. This was after my basement flooded. I believed him.
The only thing is, it’s just not that simple. That’s going to cost a chunk that I don’t know when I will be able to afford it.
My question: Is there anything precautionary that I can do to mitigate/remedy the problem of potential basement flooding until I am actually able to afford removing the house trap? A Basement Watchdog, perhaps?
Thank you,
Matt
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Author:
bernabeu (SC)
if your PLUMBING backed up through a floor drain BECAUSE of a 'clog' in your house trap THEN you 'may' want to
consider removal
BUT
first, find your fresh air inlet (may be a flush grate or a turned down ell) and make SURE it is not obstructed or blocked CAUSING an issue with the trap
if trap inside house:
if outside 'in pit':
Quote
Your primary fresh air inlet for your drain system
Your primary plumbing vent line, is technically known as a fresh air inlet (f.a.i.). It is located directly behind the house trap for your home sewer. If this vent gets clogged, all drains will operate poorly. You would probably hear gurgling sounds throughout your drain system. On the bright side, it is the easiest of all vent lines to clear out. That is because it is located on ground level, and usually accessible from right outside your home. If it doesn’t have a U bend, it usually have a vent plate over it. Vent plates are easy to remove, then there is easy access for a sewer snake.
if, however, the 'flood' was rain or ground water the plumbing system is NOT AT FAULT
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"Measure Twice & Cut Once" - Retired U.A. Local 1 & 638
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Author:
packy (MA)
bern, thay is what i was thinking. the trap can not cause the house to flood unless IT is clogged.
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Author:
bernabeu (SC)
in my experience the trap often becomes clogged because of insufficient flow-velocity caused by an obstructed fresh air intake which 'strangles' the rest of the plumbing
yes, i AM this old
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"Measure Twice & Cut Once" - Retired U.A. Local 1 & 638
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