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LAVATORY PARTS INTRODUCTION

All lavatories have traps -- the assembly of pipes whose job is to drain off waste after the basin is emptied, but at the same time' 'trap" a little water as a seal against gases or vermin entering the house.

For basins there are P-traps and S-traps, so called because when installed that's what they look like. A P-trap is characterized by a pipe that goes into the wall, while an S-trap goes into the floor.

The traps may be plastic or, more commonly. "tubular goods," which means chrome-covered brass.

The parts are assembled with large nuts and sealing washers so that the pipes can be taken apart in case the trap has to be cleared.

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