Removing bottle trap from sink

libertino

I've got a slow-draining sink. Last time this happened, a plumber came round and removed the bottle trap to clear it out, so I'm quite sure this is what needs doing again but it looked simple enough to do myself. However... I can't get the bottle trap off. I've taken a picture of it:



Am I right in thinking that the part I have pointed to with the blue arrow is the only thing that requires unscrewing? As you look at it in the photo, which direction do I need to turn it? It's really tough to turn it either way but I'd rather not waste my strength tightening it!

Gingernutty

That bottle trap bit can be tricky. My ickle hands couldn't get around mine.

You can unscrew at the points marked with the red arrows, if you like. They tend to be slightly better as the ridges make it easier to grip.

martinthebandit

What Gingernutty says, plus if it is blocking up regularly you may want to think about what you are putting down there.

If its grease, fat etc be aware that it has the potential to cause much worse problems further down the system and you are much better off not putting things like that down the drains.

You probably know this already so sorry if I sound patronising, I don't mean too

greyteam1959

Get a 1 kg bag of soda crystals next time you are in the supermarket cost 75p ish.
Will sort the job with no un screwing.

vax2002

large jar lid opener and put it round the bottom of the bottle trap and turn anti clockwise, then a a bucket to empty in to.
Do not empty it down the sink.. THINK !

SailorSam

They're sometimes very hard to unscrew those things, what you may need are stillitsons, it's like a big adjustable spanner. The other alternative is an old screwdriver and hammer, then caredully tap those lugs until it comes loose. Don't forget to have a bucket ready and as soon as it comes off it'll stink, be ready for it.

libertino

I took the whole thing off as Gingernutty suggested and did the job - thanks. Easier to remove the gunk by only removing the trap but I think it isn't screwed on the thread properly so it won't come off.

Martin: The problem is the pipe is too level to properly run downstream and there's no strong flow from the taps. Normal stuff like toothpaste, shaving foam, hair (I should have one of those removable catchers on top of the plug really) easily collect up instead of being washed away. The perils of living in a converted basement flat!

Mervyn: I've heard that before. It is satisfying getting stuck into it yourself though ;-)

Vax: I tried turning with marigolds on but, as above, I think it's not properly on the thread. Anyone who would pour it down the sink (even if it WAS connected up) doesn't deserve that advice!

Thanks everyone, job done, productive Sunday :-)

DVardysShadow

Gingernutty wrote: »

That bottle trap bit can be tricky. My ickle hands couldn't get around mine.

You can unscrew at the points marked with the red arrows, if you like. They tend to be slightly better as the ridges make it easier to grip.

NO!!!

Unscrew it at the blue arrow. Clockwise as looked at from above.

Put a bucket underneath first.