Vertical or barrel trap

[Peter Wells]

I have a tub that won't drain so tried to snake it but didn't get far, it doesn't have a U type trap instead it has a can type thing, I did a little web searching and it seems I have a barrel or vertical trap. Are there any tips for working with this type of trap? I'm planning on getting the water out of the tub and then opening the trap (it has a large nut on the top), then I guess I'll clean it out and snake from there on. I've never worked on one of these traps before - any tips?

Thanks,

Peter

[Speedy Jim]

Actually, they are called "drum" traps. They are now prohibited.

There wasn't just one design either. Some have the exit port at a different elevation from the inlet, while some are straight-thru. Also, some have an exit bend which is extremely narrow, frustrating any attempt at snaking.

You can try to get the cover off, but often they are frozen in place. The only choice then is to attack the cover with a cold chisel.

The clogs are *never* in the drum; they tend to occur downstream at some EL or TEE.

If you do get the cover off, there is a universal replacement or you can use a 4" expansion plug.

You can also try the plunger (block off the overflow) or a Shop Vac.

Jim