Why would a plumber choose not to put a trap in a basement shower drain pipe?

Question

We are trying to figure out why the pipe for our basement drain has no trap in it. It is very old and we are replacing the pipe, but since it has no trap in it now, we're wondering if there could be a reason.

Answer 1

My house was built in 1938, and I found the same thing with mine. I'm told that they didn't put traps in places that were not exposed, simply because you could not get to it unless you tore out the ceiling or dug up a floor. Apparently, traps were only used under sinks and places that were readily accessible.

This doesn't solve your problem, but may answer a question.
Good luck.

Answer 2

is it a regular floor drain with a cast iron screen on it.? It should have the trap built into it no matter how old but if not you are right. in order to keep sewer gas from coming through you need a trap in any drain. It may not have been a plumber per se but a shade tree plumberLOL sunday projects usually are done with little knowledge or cost

Answer 3

i'm not a plumber. i'd guess that drains in the basement are for draining of status water, and subsequently are actually not linked to a sewer or different device for gathering human waste. it would be risky to have human waste - bathroom or bathe - unlikely right into a septic or sewer device. the rationalization is that ailments are unfold with the help of waste water, e.g. cholera.

Answer 4

It needs a trap. This will keep the smell down and be healthier for the family. good luck.

Answer 5

Right you are stan p. older homes didn't have traps in nonexposed piping. Install it now. good luck with that.

Answer 6

Please add the trap during your replacement. It should have been there. The plumbers were lazy and the job probably was not inspected. Do you smell gases coming back up? I hope not.

Answer 7

Laziness.

Answer 8

I would'nt try to figure out why there is no trap.
I would simply put one in.