Plumbing Trap A plumbing trap is formed by a pool of water collecting in a pipe with the shape of an inverted letter “P” or the letter “S” standing on its side.

This brings us to the role of the S-trap. The purpose of a drain trap is to hold a small amount of water to prevent sewer gases from escaping through the sink or shower drain.

How to empty out the P-trap of your bathroom sink, and other plumbing tips and tricks for handling a job on your own.

Homefix: Dwight Barnett writes about home-improvement projects. This week's topics: contractors and the importance of having the proper drain installed.

Emily vs. the City learns how to remove a P-trap — the curvy pipe beneath the kitchen or bathroom sink.

The plumbing partly blamed for the spread of Sars is back in the spotlight. Homeowners have been warned to make regular checks on the U-traps and floor drains that are supposed to protect ...